As I sit here in late November looking at weather for the next few days it’s sun and blue skies all the way around, but you need to be prepared for the cold, 7c is the lowest daytime temperature you’d encounter if you left today.

This might not seem like perfect weather for every rider but if you have the ability to wrap up warm, you’ll have the opportunity to see some amazing areas and with virtually no other people around.

The loop, the way I plotted it is ridden in a counterclockwise direction. A large portion of the early riding is in a NE direction so you won’t be riding into the sun but have it on your back and as the sun lowers it will be lighting up the red rocks for some spectacular views.

Remnant of an explosive volcanic eruption

Flagstaff is a busy place and good option for hotels as there is loads to choose from in every price range. 

Leaving Phoenix by the northern desert on Route 74 and quickly passing through the small cowboy town of Wickenburg where cattle roping events are almost a weekly occurrence. 

You’ll get off the main Highway 93 and head onto the more scenic and a lot quieter Route 89, one of Americas most iconic roads that traverses the country all the way to its northern border with Canada. 

It’s time to ride back into Arizona to see one of the least visited National Monuments. Talking to local Native Indians they think it’s because the road is dead a lot of visitors simply don’t think it’s worth the trip up and back…let me tell you it is, IT REALLY IS!!!

Heading to the actual Shiprock itself

• Lake Tegernsee sparkles in the sun
• Traditionally served in extra-large mugs
• Equipment dries on the neighboring pasture fence

Head up the paved road some 27km from Chinle to where it ends, make the left turn, and follow this paved road to the end and find a place to park. Now it’s time to walk a few hundred meters around a corner and if possible be there an hour or two before sunset for the most spectacular light. 

This is one of the highest points of the ride, best to visit in the early afternoon to allow you time to get further east and slight lower in elevation.

Get to Route 160 and in Kayenta fill up with fuel and follow the Route 163 towards Monument Valley. Opinions differ in this area if entering the park or looking from a distance offers the best view of this iconic area. Personally, I prefer the long distance iconic view 20km past the AZ/ UT Stateline