Segment 1: Flagstaff to Williams

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

Features Commonly Bikepacked

• Bikepacking: Craters and Cinder Cones Loop

The start of this route follows a 60-mile segment as it climbs west from Flagstaff on old doubletrack across Observatory Mesa before meandering in and out of grassy parks and through ponderosa pine forests.

As it continues west, the route passes Lava River Cave, crosses Spring Valley, and climbs over the east shoulder of Sitgreaves Mountain before crossing Interstate 40. Before reaching the touristy Route 66 town of Williams, the route passes Dog Lake Reservoir and Bill Williams. Most of this segment is along dirt forest roads with some short sections of rougher doubletrack.

Recommended printed topographic maps:

• Trails Illustrated maps 856 (Flagstaff/Sedona)
• 854 (Sycamore Canyon/Verde Valley)
• See Arizona Gazetteer for northwest quarter of loop

Highlights:

• Quiet dirt road (and a bit of rougher two-track) riding through ponderosa pines and meadows
• Stay at the U.S. Forest Service Spring Valley Cabin Bunkhouse below Sitgreaves Mountain (mile 31). Reservations required; call the Kaibab N.F. (928-635-8200) for information.
• Take a one mile round trip hike to Lava River Cave (mile 21). Make sure to dress warmly and bring lights)

Logistics:

The two most reliable water options are (1) around mile 31-35 (USFS cabin if vacant or stock tanks nearby and (2) Dogtown Lake Campground at mile 52

There are no resupply options on this segment until Williams. Williams offers restaurants, a grocery store, and motels.