Bighorn Pass Road

The Queen Valley Loop, located within Joshua Tree National Park, offers a unique desert cycling experience, though it's far from a typical touring route. You'll navigate 7.5 miles (12.0 km) of singletrack and doubletrack dirt roads, encountering sandy patches and rocky sections that demand a mountain bike or fat bike rather than a conventional touring bicycle. The route traverses open landscapes, showcasing the Mojave Desert's distinctive geology, native plants, and impressive mountain views, making it a scenic but challenging ride.

Planning your visit to the Queen Valley Loop requires the right equipment; a robust off-road bike is essential for tackling the varied terrain. While the route is listed as an easy 1 hour and 4 minute ride with only 166 feet (50 metres) of elevation gain, the technical nature of the trail means it will feel more strenuous than the stats suggest for a touring cyclist. Multiple campgrounds are situated along the route, offering convenient access for those looking to extend their stay in the park.

This loop is primarily known for hiking, trail running, and rock climbing, highlighting its rugged character. It provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique ecosystem of Joshua Tree National Park, passing by iconic natural features and offering a different perspective on the park's vastness. Be prepared for a self-sufficient ride, as amenities are limited once you're on the trail.

This challenging touring cycling loop from Twenty Nine Palms takes you deep into the unique desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park. You'll navigate a diverse terrain featuring towering granite outcrops, surreal rock formations, and vast groves of the park's namesake Joshua trees, especially in the western half. The route offers immersive views and a true sense of adventure as you traverse both paved and unpaved roads, with some sandy backcountry tracks requiring wider tires.

Planning for this 48.7-mile (78.4 km) difficult ride, which includes 2910 feet (887 metres) of elevation gain and takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes, means being self-sufficient. There are no water refill stations in the park, so carrying at least one gallon per person is crucial. The ideal time to cycle is during the spring (mid-March to mid-May) or fall (September to early December) to avoid the intense summer heat.

Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts converge, creating a unique ecosystem. This route allows you to experience this otherworldly environment firsthand, appreciating the iconic flora and rugged rock formations. While cycling is restricted to roads, the park offers about 100 miles of sandy dirt tracks for a less trafficked experience, making it a rewarding adventure for those prepared for demanding terrain.