Prescott Valley to Jerome

This route is considered a difficult road ride, requiring good to very good fitness levels. It features substantial elevation gain, demanding climbs, and continuous ascending and descending, particularly along the Mingus Mountain Drive. Be prepared for a physically strenuous experience.

The route offers spectacular views as it winds through high-desert country and the Black Hills area, including Mingus Mountain. You'll see diverse landscapes, from stands of conifer trees and lofty peaks to vast mountain vistas and deep valley crevices. The journey through the Prescott National Forest provides an immersion in Arizona's natural beauty, transitioning from high desert to pine forests.

Yes, the route passes by the Mingus Mountain Summit Picnic Area, offering a great spot to rest and enjoy the views. The ride concludes in Jerome, a historic mining town perched on a hillside, where you can visit the Jerome Mine Museum and explore the town's unique character.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring and fall months when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, especially in the lower elevations, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations like Mingus Mountain. Always check weather conditions before you go.

You can typically find parking in Prescott Valley to begin your ride. Specific parking areas may vary, so it's advisable to research local public parking options or designated trailhead parking in Prescott Valley before your trip.

As this route primarily follows public roads through the Prescott National Forest, you generally do not need specific permits or pay entrance fees for road cycling. However, always check the latest regulations from the Prescott National Forest service before your trip, especially if you plan to venture off paved roads.

This is a road cycling route, and while dogs are generally allowed in the Prescott National Forest on leash, bringing a dog on a strenuous road ride like this is not recommended for their safety or yours. It's best to leave your furry friends at home for this particular adventure.

While the route itself is quite remote through the Prescott National Forest, the historic town of Jerome at the end of your ride offers several cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can refuel and relax. It's wise to carry sufficient water and snacks for the duration of the ride, as options are limited until you reach Jerome.

Yes, while primarily a road cycling route, it does intersect with or run parallel to sections of other trails. Notably, it covers portions of the Old Fain Road, and smaller segments of trails like the Coconino 250 MTB Route, 9003P, and Yeager Canyon Trail #28. These are generally unpaved and not suitable for race bikes.

Be aware that sections of the Mingus Mountain Drive feature switchbacks and steep grades, often without guardrails. Given the significant elevation changes and challenging terrain, ensure your bike is in excellent condition, wear appropriate safety gear including a helmet, and be prepared for variable weather conditions. Traffic can also be present, so ride defensively.

This specific route from Prescott Valley to Jerome is a point-to-point ride. It starts in Prescott Valley and concludes in the town of Jerome. If you plan to return to your starting point, you would need to arrange for a shuttle or prepare for an equally challenging return ride.