The best road cycling routes in San Juan County

San Juan County offers a diverse selection of over 10 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes traverse desert canyons, river valleys, and mountainous terrain, providing unique experiences.

Yes, San Juan County has several easy road cycling options. A notable easy route is the Courthouse Wash – Bridge over the Colorado River loop from Moab, which is 24.3 miles long and offers scenic views of the Colorado River and surrounding canyon lands.

For those seeking longer rides, the Potash Road route is a significant option, spanning 40.9 miles with moderate climbs through a scenic desert environment.

While the guide primarily features easy and moderate routes, the region's varied elevation profiles, particularly in mountainous areas, can offer challenging sections. Routes like the La Sal Mountains Lookout Point loop from Spanish Valley, with its 872 meters of elevation gain, provide a more demanding experience.

San Juan County is renowned for its dramatic geological formations and stunning vistas. Cyclists can enjoy views of the Colorado River, canyon lands, and the La Sal Mountains. Specific viewpoints include Basin Overlook, Dead Horse Point State Park and Green River Overlook.

Easy routes with relatively flat sections along river pathways are generally suitable for families. The Moab – Moab loop from Shell is an easy 11.6-mile route that could be a good option for a family outing.

Given the desert climate, spring and fall typically offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling in San Juan County, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and potential winter conditions at higher elevations.

Yes, many road cycling routes in San Juan County are designed as loops, offering a continuous journey back to your starting point. Examples include the View of Owachomo Bridge loop from White Canyon and the Courthouse Wash – Bridge over the Colorado River loop from Shell.

The region is rich with natural landmarks. Along or near various routes, you can find attractions such as Sipapu Bridge and the iconic Mesa Arch. Many routes offer views of canyons and other geological formations.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in San Juan County, with an average score of 3.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from desert canyons to river valleys, and the unique natural environment of southeastern Utah.

Absolutely. Several routes provide stunning views of the Colorado River. The Moab Canyon Pathway – Bridge over the Colorado River loop from Shell is a great option for experiencing the river scenery.

Given the desert environment and varied terrain, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), appropriate cycling gear, and basic repair tools. Checking weather forecasts is also recommended due to potential temperature fluctuations.