WHAT ARE THE TOP CYCLING-FRIENDLY DESERT ROUTES?

Iconic desert routes in the United States

The United States boasts some of the world’s most diverse desert landscapes, stretching across the Southwest. For cyclists, these regions offer everything from scenic byways to challenging climbs. The infrastructure in many national parks also supports cycling adventures, making the U.S. deserts a top choice for riders worldwide.

Monument Valley, Arizona–Utah border

Cycling through Monument Valley feels like pedaling inside a Western film. Iconic sandstone buttes rise from the desert floor, and the roads are smooth, with long stretches of rolling terrain. The route is best taken in early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and to capture stunning light for photographs.

• Route length: 27 miles loop.

• Best season: spring and fall.

• Highlight: cycling past formations like the Mittens and Merrick Butte.

Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley is infamous for its heat, but in winter and early spring, it transforms into a cyclist’s playground. The Badwater Basin to Dante’s View climb offers breathtaking panoramas and one of the most dramatic elevation changes in North America. Riders must plan carefully, as services are limited.

The sense of isolation in Death Valley is unmatched. Roads are smooth, traffic is light, and the silence amplifies every pedal stroke. Proper hydration and preparation make this a bucket-list ride.

Sedona and the Red Rock Loop, Arizona

While not a traditional desert, Sedona blends desert and high desert scenery, making it one of the most picturesque cycling regions in the U.S. The Red Rock Loop provides a short but stunning ride, while nearby roads lead into longer climbs with views of sandstone spires and mesas.

• Known for vibrant red landscapes and spiritual atmosphere.

• Popular with both road cyclists and gravel riders.

• Offers varied terrain from rolling hills to challenging climbs.

The U.S. deserts combine cinematic landscapes with well-maintained roads, making them an unbeatable choice for cyclists seeking adventure without leaving North America.

International desert cycling routes

Cyclists looking for more exotic landscapes can find extraordinary desert routes worldwide. From Africa’s vast dunes to Australia’s arid outback, international desert cycling offers diversity, cultural immersion, and unforgettable challenges.

Sahara Desert, Morocco

The edge of the Sahara offers some of the most unique cycling experiences on the planet. While riding across dunes is impractical for road bikes, the routes connecting oases, villages, and desert plateaus provide thrilling gravel and endurance rides. Cyclists often base themselves in towns like Merzouga before heading out into the desert.

• Challenging conditions with sand and wind.

• Immersive cultural encounters with Berber communities.

• Unparalleled starry night skies for overnight tours.

Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is a surreal cycling destination. Roads cut through salt flats, geysers, and valleys shaped by centuries of wind erosion. Routes around San Pedro de Atacama allow riders to combine cycling with visits to natural wonders like Valle de la Luna.

Cycling here demands preparation, as altitude can exceed 2,400 meters. The rewards are unparalleled landscapes that feel like riding on another planet.

Australian Outback: Stuart Highway

Australia’s desert interior provides a different kind of challenge: vast distances, sparse services, and an unforgettable sense of remoteness. The Stuart Highway, stretching from Adelaide to Darwin, offers segments that cyclists attempt for endurance challenges. Support vehicles are often necessary due to extreme isolation.

• Ideal for ultra-endurance riders.

• Demands meticulous planning and logistics.

• Offers raw encounters with Australia’s wilderness.

International desert routes expand horizons, offering both cultural depth and extreme landscapes that redefine the meaning of cycling adventure.

Tips for safe desert cycling

Cycling in desert environments demands special preparation. Unlike temperate routes, desert rides come with risks of extreme heat, dehydration, and isolation. Smart strategies ensure safety and allow riders to fully enjoy the landscapes.

Hydration and nutrition

Carrying more water than you think you’ll need is rule number one. Electrolyte tablets or powders help prevent cramps and heat exhaustion. Energy-dense foods are critical since services are limited in remote desert regions.

Timing your rides

Cyclists should avoid riding at midday when temperatures peak. Early mornings and late afternoons offer safer conditions and better light for scenery. Seasonal planning is equally important—many desert routes are best in spring or fall when temperatures are manageable.

• Check forecasts before heading out.

• Wear UV-protective clothing and sunscreen.

• Carry GPS devices or offline maps in case of poor reception.

Gear considerations

Tires with puncture resistance are essential due to sharp rocks and thorns common in desert terrain. A reliable repair kit, extra tubes, and sufficient lighting are non-negotiable. For gravel or mixed terrain, wider tires with good grip enhance control.

Above all, desert cycling is about respect for the environment. Riders who prepare thoroughly can enjoy one of the purest, most rewarding forms of cycling—where endurance meets awe-inspiring landscapes.