The same things that make the Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway a captivating drive for travelers across the country also make it a mecca for road bikers. If you're looking for a leisurely ride through fir, pine, and aspen forests, meadows graced with wildflowers, and the awesome majesty of the Grand Canyon, then ride this byway yourself to see why in 2006, ESPN named it as one of the Top 10 US Biking Routes.
Before you hit the byway's 42 miles of forests and meadows, make sure you have everything you need—the closest place for bike parts is Kanab, Utah, about 40 miles from the northern end of the byway. It's important to come prepared for the trip because there aren’t a lot of accommodations or services offered along the road. Because the byway is closed during the winter months to traditional vehicles, you’ll want to plan your trip for the spring, fall, or summer, but remember that cycling in the hot Arizona sun will require plenty of food and water.
A good place to begin your road biking adventure is at Jacob Lake, the north end of the byway, where you can stock up on any extra necessities or visit the Kaibab Plateau Visitor Center to get area information before starting your ride. The route along the byway is suitable for everyone, from beginners to more advanced riders, but be careful along the narrow shoulder, especially in the high tourist season during the summer months.
On your way to the Grand Canyon, you'll ride through the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the United States, the Kaibab and Saddle Mountain National Forests. You might see elk, mule deer, or antelope, so keep an eye out! During the fall, slow your pace a little to see the Forests' rainbow of colors. Five miles before the North Rim entrance to Grand Canyon National Park, stop at the Kaibab Lodge for lodging or meals, and purchase a fun souvenir at their gift shop.
As you ride inside Grand Canyon National Park, be careful of traffic because the road narrows quite a bit. Visit Bright Angel Point and the North Rim Lodge for spectacular views of the "canyon of all canyons." The Lodge has large picture windows that face south and west, allowing you to rest in the lounge and wonder at the awe-inspiring enormity of one of nature's most amazing feats of architecture. The Grand Canyon was thousands of years in the making, so don’t rush yourself! Stay the night so you can see a sunset or a sunrise as the light dances on the red rock cliffs, or just sit for a while and let the drama of earth’s geologic history unfold before your eyes. Once this wonder of the world has been permanently etched across your memory and in your camera, enjoy the ride back to Jacob Lake, it’s downhill all the way.
Cycle the smooth surface of the Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway over steep, winding areas and gentle hills to discover the spectacular natural beauty of the Grand Canyon. No matter how experienced a cyclist you are, it will be an adventure you’ll never forget.
