Cyclists zoom along the Jenny Lake Loop Road in Grand Teton National Park on April 2, enjoying sunshine and a view of the mountains without worrying about motorized vehicles. Cars won’t be allowed on the road until May 1.

Each spring, Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks offer cyclists a brief period during which they can ride some park roads without worrying about motorized vehicles. In Grand Teton National Park cyclists, hikers and others flock to the Taggart Lake Trailhead at Cottonwood Creek on sunny days to strike out on dozens of miles of pavement.

The routes are relatively flat and include a scenic loop to String and Jenny lakes. Vehicles will be allowed on the roads May 1.

In Yellowstone cyclists, hikers and others are welcome along 49 miles from West Yellowstone to Mammoth. Officials recommend carrying bear spray, being wary near animals and riding with a full complement of foul-weather gear. Even though vehicles won’t be allowed on the road until April 15, “bicyclists are required to ride single file,” park rules say.

Yellowstone also allows some cycling on the east and south entrance roads, depending on conditions. Cyclists can call 307-344-2109 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays for road access information.

Angus M. Thuermer Jr. is the natural resources reporter for WyoFile. He is a veteran Wyoming reporter and editor with more than 35 years experience in Wyoming. Contact him at angus@wyofile.com or (307)...

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