The best road cycling routes around St. George

St. George offers over 40 road cycling routes. You'll find a good mix, with 12 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 3 challenging routes for experienced cyclists.

The region is a unique convergence of the Mojave Desert, Great Basin, and Colorado Plateau, offering incredibly diverse landscapes. You'll encounter striking red sandstone cliffs, petrified dunes, and volcanic features. Routes can range from smooth, paved paths through desert scenery to demanding climbs with views of the Pine Valley Mountains and distant Zion National Park.

St. George boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for year-round cycling. However, the arid desert climate means summers can be very hot. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling, providing ideal conditions to explore the diverse terrain.

Absolutely. For stunning red rock scenery, the Snow Canyon State Park loop is highly recommended. The Red Hills Parkway offers expansive views of the city below, while the Veyo Loop provides picturesque views of the Pine Valley Mountains, canyons, and lava rocks. For a more relaxed, scenic ride, consider the Virgin River Trail/Parkway.

Yes, St. George offers several routes for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge. The Kolob Terrace Challenge, for instance, spans over 60 miles with nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. Another difficult option is the Waterbury – Great Eddy Covered Bridge loop, which includes significant elevation gain through diverse landscapes.

Yes, for a more relaxed experience, the Virgin River Trail/Parkway is a 7-mile paved path that follows the course of the Virgin River. While the guide focuses on road cycling, many areas like Quail Creek also offer quiet neighborhoods and long country roads with scenic views that can be suitable for less strenuous rides.

Many of the popular road cycling routes in St. George are designed as loops. Notable examples include the scenic Snow Canyon State Park loop, the 50-mile Gunlock Loop, and the 43.5-mile Veyo Loop. The Champlain Bikeway: Shelburne-Charlotte Loop is another popular option.

St. George is surrounded by natural wonders. Cyclists can find themselves near Snow Canyon State Park, Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, Sand Hollow State Park, and Quail Creek State Park. The region is known for its dramatic geology, including red sandstone cliffs and fascinating lava tubes. While cycling, you might also catch glimpses of the Pine Valley Mountains or distant Zion National Park.

Many popular cycling areas and parks in St. George, such as Snow Canyon State Park and various trailheads, offer designated parking facilities. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot or local park information for precise parking locations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 5 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning red rock formations, and the variety of routes catering to different ability levels, from easier rides to challenging climbs.

Yes, St. George is recognized as a significant cycling hub and has a well-developed infrastructure for cyclists. The city hosts several bike shops that cater to the cycling community, offering rentals, repairs, and gear for various cycling needs.

Given the arid desert climate and potential for hot summers, lightweight, breathable cycling apparel is essential. Hydration is critical, so carrying ample water or planning stops is advised. In cooler months, layers are recommended as temperatures can vary. Always check the forecast before heading out.