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Routes
Mountain biking trails
United States
Arizona
Coconino County

Arizona Trail and Pleasant Valley Loop

Moderate

2.9

(2)

88

riders

Arizona Trail and Pleasant Valley Loop

03:06

32.0km

580m

Mountain biking

This moderate 19.9-mile mountain biking route in Kaibab National Forest offers diverse terrain and scenic highlights like Crane Lake.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Kaibab National Forest

Waypoints

A

Start point

Get Directions

1

2.16 km

Telephone Hill Section

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Fairytale-like, the Arizona Trail winds along Telephone Hill and enchants you again and again with views over the vast Kaibab Plateau. Even in mid-May you can still encounter snowfields up here.

Tip by

2

4.58 km

Crane Lake

Highlight • Lake

Crane Lake is a good source of water on the North Rim, which are quite scarce here. The water should definitely be filtered/treated.

Tip by

3

10.1 km

Pleasant Valley

Highlight • Natural

A broad, rolling valley that might strike riders as looking and feeling more alpine than desert, Pleasant Valley very much lives up to its name. All the same, always be mindful of your water supply, critically so in summer.

Tip by

B

32.0 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

18.6 km

11.3 km

2.13 km

Surfaces

29.4 km

2.68 km

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (2,700 m)

Lowest point (2,460 m)

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Weather

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Today

Monday 1 June

24°C

7°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Arizona Trail and Pleasant Valley Loop mountain biking route?

This specific route is rated as moderate. While the broader Arizona Trail can be very challenging with technical sections and hike-a-bike, this particular 32 km loop offers a balanced experience suitable for riders with some mountain biking experience.

Where does the route start and is there parking available?

The route is designed as a loop, so you can start at various points. Specific trailhead parking information isn't provided in the tour data, but as it's within Kaibab National Forest, designated parking areas are generally available near forest roads or trail access points. It's advisable to check local forest service maps for the most current parking details.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this mountain biking route?

You can expect diverse terrain, typical of the Arizona Trail, which transitions through various ecosystems. This segment likely features a mix of singletrack, forest roads, and potentially some rocky or rooty sections. Given its location, you might encounter anything from high desert landscapes to pine forest environments.

What are the best times of year to ride this route?

The best times to ride this route are generally in the spring and fall. Summers can be dangerously hot in Arizona, especially at lower elevations, while winter months might bring snow to higher sections within the Kaibab National Forest, making riding difficult or impossible.

Are there any notable points of interest along the way?

Yes, the route passes by several interesting spots. You'll encounter the Telephone Hill Section, ride near Crane Lake, and traverse through the scenic Pleasant Valley area.

Is this mountain biking route dog-friendly?

Generally, trails within Kaibab National Forest are dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste. Check specific Kaibab National Forest regulations for any seasonal or area-specific restrictions.

Do I need any permits or pay an entrance fee for this route in Kaibab National Forest?

For day use of the Arizona Trail within Kaibab National Forest, permits are typically not required, and there are no entrance fees for accessing the forest itself. However, if you plan to camp overnight, specific permits might be necessary depending on the type of camping. Always check the official Kaibab National Forest website for the most up-to-date regulations.

What should I bring for mountain biking this route?

Given the moderate difficulty and potential for varied terrain, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (including tire sealant due to potential desert thorns), a first-aid kit, and navigation tools. An ultralight setup is often recommended for longer Arizona Trail segments, but for this 32 km loop, focus on essentials for a comfortable and safe ride.

Does this route connect with other well-known trails?

Yes, this route incorporates significant sections of the

Arizona Trail

(approximately 51% of the route) and also includes parts of the

Hayduke Trail #10

. Additionally, it utilizes various forest roads such as

NF-241

and

NF-9108P

to complete the loop.

Are there amenities like cafes or water sources along the route?

This route primarily runs through natural areas within Kaibab National Forest. You should not expect cafes or readily available water sources directly on the trail. It's crucial to carry all the water you'll need for the entire ride. Any amenities would likely be found in nearby towns, not directly on the loop.

What wildlife might I encounter while mountain biking this route?

The diverse ecosystems along the Arizona Trail mean you could encounter a variety of wildlife. Depending on the specific section and time of year, this might include deer, javelina, various bird species, and reptiles. Always maintain a respectful distance and be aware of your surroundings.

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