David Lamb recently pedaled the spectacular Coconino Loop in Arizona, and he created a detailed video capturing his experiences along the way. Find a written introduction and see the route through his point of view in the 26-minute video here…

Words, photos, and video by David Lamb

The experience of bikepacking is every bit as meaningful and exciting as the idea of it in my head. This perfect alignment between my experience and my expectations is what sets it apart from every other activity I’ve ever engaged in. I recently flew to Arizona to ride the Coconino Loop. In the weeks I spent preparing for this ride, I imagined how I would feel riding between towering desert mesas in Sedona or coasting down the AZT enjoying the smell of ponderosa pine. I thought of how great it feels to be engaged in something that is so difficult yet also so rewarding. When I finally got there, reality matched my expectations.

Coconino Loop
  • Coconino Loop
  • Coconino Loop

The Coconino Loop is a 240-mile bikepacking route that weaves together some of Arizona’s finest trails, including the AZT and the iconic red rock singletrack of Sedona. The route immerses riders in desert vistas, cholla cacti, and dirt roads that stretch into infinity. Controlled burns are a regular occurence in the ponderosa forests of Northern Arizona. The burns leave the forest feeling fresh, renewed, and smelling amazing. The varied landscapes of this route are one of the highlights. Flagstaff has a high alpine feel to it, and Sedona is a desert that looks like the surface of Mars. The change in scenery also comes with a change in temperature, so it’s important to pack a warm sleeping bag for the higher elevations.

  • Coconino Loop
  • Coconino Loop
  • Coconino Loop

This route, while stunningly beautiful, is not for the faint of heart. The climb up Mingus Mountain is long and arduous, but it rewards riders with a smooth, flowy descent on manicured singletrack. The Mingus climb is a good reminder of what makes these trips so gratifying: they force you to work hard for that hot meal, cold beer, or exhilarating downhill.

  • Coconino Loop
  • Coconino Loop

Bikepacking is only ever two things for me: the hardest thing I’ve ever done or the most fun I’ve ever had. If you can learn to appreciate both aspects of it, you’re in for the time of your life!

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