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By GJRonK (2629 McR Points) on Nov 30, 2017

Creator : GJRonK
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser


Considering that most bikers are interested in the riding aspect, then they will enjoy three sections most. One is the curvy road just southwest of Prescott, second is the 12 mile section west of Jerome, and last is Oak Creek Canyon to the north of Sedona (although this is not part of the mapped route). As you are just south of Yarnell, there are a couple of good curves and a good view looking southwest (best seen when coming down from Yarnell, the location of the tragic brush fire several years ago).

The variety is going from semi-arid upland desert (elevation 2-4,000') with brush and pinyon/juniper trees to conifer forest (at 5-6,000') with mostly ponderosa pine. Most of the time you are in broad valleys with mountains all around.

There are several types of towns, all crowded with tourists. The worst two are Sedona and Jerome. Sedona is more spread out and level, so the tourists have more room and there is always lots of traffic. The backdrop to Sedona consists of colorful rock ridges. Jerome is on a narrow street with shops all along. Jerome has the history of the abandoned copper mines nearby, and is more rustic. There is also a mining museum in Jerome. Parking is more problematic for bikes as the level spots are few.

Prescott is the biggest city and most traffic along the way as it includes more residents. There really isn't a lot to see in that area other than Watson Lake just north of town on Hwy. 89. The Cottonwood area is just a spread out suburb, no tourists.

So generally, the fun is in the change of scenery, a few challenging road curve sections, and most of the time not a lot of traffic on the highways. Mostly skip visiting in the towns unless you need souvenirs or to eat.

3 riders found this road review useful.