The best cycling routes around St. George

The St. George area offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 40 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging rides.

St. George is renowned for its diverse and stunning landscapes. Cyclists can experience vibrant red rock formations, towering sandstone cliffs, unique volcanic features like inactive cinder cones and lava rocks, and scenic views of the Pine Valley Mountains. Routes also follow the Virgin River and pass through desert flora, including Joshua Trees.

Yes, St. George offers several easygoing and paved trails perfect for beginners or those seeking a leisurely ride. Popular options include the scenic Virgin River Trail, the Snow Canyon Loop/Parkway with its incredible red rock views, and the Red Hills Parkway. The Santa Clara River Trail and Bloomington Loop also provide accessible paths.

For advanced riders looking for a challenge, St. George has routes that test endurance. The Veyo Loop is an easy-moderate 43.5-mile path with significant scenery. The Gunlock Gravel Loop features substantial climbing on dirt roads, and the Kolob Reservoir route offers tight turns and steep areas through mountain terrain. Utah Hill is another 15-mile path designed to test endurance.

St. George boasts a mild climate with an average of 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal year-round destination for cycling. The best times are typically spring, fall, and even winter months when temperatures are pleasant and other regions might be less accessible due to weather.

Absolutely. Many of the paved and easygoing trails are suitable for families. The Virgin River Trail is a popular choice, offering a mostly flat and scenic ride along the river, perfect for all ages. The Snow Canyon Parkway also provides a safe and picturesque experience within the state park.

The touring cycling routes in St. George are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 24 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning red rock scenery, the variety of terrain from river trails to volcanic landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different skill levels.

Many routes in St. George are specifically known for their breathtaking geological views. The Snow Canyon Loop/Parkway offers incredible vistas of red rock formations and black lava rock. The Red Hills Parkway provides views along the cliffs of St. George's northern section, showcasing dramatic Navajo sandstone. The Veyo Loop also features inactive cinder cones and lava rocks.

Yes, loop routes are available for touring cyclists in St. George. The Veyo Loop is a well-known option that provides a comprehensive tour of diverse scenery, including volcanic features and canyons. Other routes, like the Snow Canyon Loop, also offer circular paths to experience the area's beauty.

For additional details and resources on road cycling opportunities in the St. George area, you can visit the official Utah tourism website: visitutah.com.

Yes, St. George offers routes that feature beautiful water elements. The Virgin River Trail provides a scenic ride directly along the Virgin River, with views of surrounding red rock cliffs. The Kolob Reservoir route, though challenging, leads to a high mountain meadow with a reservoir, surrounded by aspen and pine trees.

The desert environment around St. George is home to unique flora. Cyclists on routes like the Gunlock Gravel Loop may spot iconic Joshua Trees, adding to the distinct character of the landscape.