The best road cycling routes in Summit County

This difficult 81.9-mile road cycling loop takes you through the Colorado Rockies, featuring high alpine passes and historic landmarks.

The Dillon Reservoir Recpath Loop offers a fantastic road cycling experience, circling the expansive Lake Dillon with constant views of the Tenmile and Gore Ranges. You'll pedal through diverse landscapes, from wetlands and forested sections alongside the Blue River to the panoramic vistas from Sapphire Point Overlook. The route is mostly paved, making it ideal for road bikes, but expect some rolling hills and a notable climb over Swan Mountain, adding a good challenge to the 20.3 miles (32.7 km) journey.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with plenty of free parking available along the path and access via the Summit Stage bus system. The full loop, with its 981 feet (299 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hours and 38 minutes, making it a manageable yet rewarding outing. Keep in mind that while the official difficulty is easy, the high altitude (over 9,000 feet) and the Swan Mountain climb can make it feel more moderate, especially if you choose the steeper counter-clockwise direction.

This loop is a central part of Summit County's extensive paved recreational pathway system, connecting to other trails like the Snake River and Blue River Recpaths for longer adventures. It's renowned for its early season accessibility, often being one of the first trails to clear of snow in the spring. The continuous, dramatic views of Dillon Reservoir and the unique experience of riding across the Dillon Dam are major highlights, making this a must-do for road cyclists in Summit County, Colorado.

Embark on the Tenmile Recpath, a moderate road cycling route that stretches for 25.8 miles (41.6 km) through the scenic White River National Forest. You'll gain 1832 feet (558 metres) in elevation on this journey, which typically takes around 2 hours and 23 minutes to complete. As you ride, you'll enjoy impressive views of the towering Tenmile Range mountains and follow the winding Tenmile Creek, passing several ponds that create a serene natural backdrop. Even with some sections running alongside Interstate 70, the picturesque scenery, including glimpses of the Dillon Reservoir, helps you overlook the highway noise.

When planning your visit, be aware that the terrain varies; you'll find a gradual uphill climb towards Copper Mountain if you start in Frisco. Many cyclists opt to use shuttle services to Vail Pass, which allows for a predominantly downhill and easier ride back towards Frisco. You'll find convenient water fountains along the way, such as near the Frisco marina entrance, and public bathrooms are available at the base of Copper Mountain.

This route offers a varied and engaging ride for anyone looking to explore Summit County by bike. It's known for its unique blend of natural beauty, from the majestic Tenmile Range to the tranquil Tenmile Creek, and its accessibility. The path provides a great way to experience the region's landscape, making it a notable option for a day out on two wheels.

Cycle the Upper Blue Recpath, a 15-mile paved route in Summit County, offering moderate road cycling with mountain views.

The road cycling route up Ute Pass from Silverthorne, Colorado, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the Rocky Mountain landscape, offering a significant challenge with incredible payoffs. You'll begin by pedaling past ranches, then steadily climb through switchbacks on a paved surface, gaining 2355 feet (718 metres) of elevation over 37.9 miles (61.1 km). The views of the Gore Range and the surrounding Arapaho National Forest are truly spectacular, making the moderate 3-hour and 7-minute effort well worth it for any dedicated cyclist.

For those planning to tackle this climb, you can begin your ride from Silverthorne Elementary School or a convenient pull-off at the Ute Pass Road intersection on Highway 9. The initial stretch on Highway 9 has a wide shoulder, offering a safe and pleasant start. Consider timing your ride for the late afternoon to experience the stunning sunset views, but always remember to pack a headlamp for the descent.

Ute Pass is often considered one of the best road bike rides near Silverthorne, Colorado, and a bit of a hidden gem among local cyclists. It's an integral part of County Road 3, winding through the scenic Williams Fork Range and providing a true taste of high-alpine cycling without venturing onto unpaved roads. This route is perfect if you're looking for a substantial road cycling elevation gain and panoramic vistas.

Road cycling the Upper Blue Recpath and Dillon Reservoir Loop offers a moderate 32.5-mile ride with great mountain and lake views.

This difficult 64.3-mile gravel cycling loop from Vail Pass Summit offers high-altitude views and challenging climbs to Fremont Pass.

Cycle the easy Breckenridge Overlook loop, a 6.8-mile route offering panoramic views of Breckenridge and the Tenmile Range.

Road cycling the Fremont Pass Recreational Pathway offers moderate difficulty with scenic views and significant climbing over 21.8 miles.