Grand Canyon/Western Express

[nobachi2000]

I'm planning to ride from Flagstaff, AZ to Durango, CO but I'm not using the Western Express route. Does anyone know the conditions of the roads and weather in late fall or spring?

[Westinghouse]

I am not familiar with that area for cycling.

[wanderingwheel]

I've ridden through this area a few times, and it can be a very cahllenging ride.  Every time I've gone through the Navajo Nation, so that's the route I know.

The conditions on the road aren't bad.  Traffic is generally light, and the roads are well suited for cycling.  The challenges come from the very long distances between towns and services, the harsh weather (although your times shouldn't be terrible), and the beautiful but desolate terrain.

If you ride through the Navajo Nation, be careful of relying on maps for locations of towns and services.  They often show towns every 10 miles or so, but in reality there are only the towns of Tuba City, Kayenta, and Shiprock.  There are occasional service stations between them, but make sure you can be self sufficient for at least 100 miles -- including water.

It's a ride like no other, but be ready for it.

Sean

[nobachi2000]

Hi Sean. Thanks for the information.

One pedal at a time

[nobachi2000]

The route I'm planning out of Flagstaff AZ is Highway 89 to 160.  Riding along Interstate 40 and 17 is out of the question, right? Bicycles are allowed on those roads right.  I'll check with the Arizona Highway Patrol.

One pedal at a time

[DavidBurggraff]

I live on the Navajo Nation and travel Rt 40 frequently. Although some of the cross country guided trips go this route, I definitely do not recommend it - high truck traffic at 75-80 mph.

[DavidBurggraff]

I saw your reply and that you have usually gone through the Navajo Nation. I live there in Fort Defiance. What route did you use to cross?