The best road cycling routes in Pueblo County

Pueblo County offers a diverse range of road cycling terrain. You'll find routes through high desert environments, along the plains and canyons of the Arkansas River Valley, and with views of the Wet Mountains. Many routes feature scenery around reservoirs like Lake Pueblo, providing varied backdrops for your ride.

Yes, Pueblo County has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Arkansas River and Pueblo Reservoir Trail Loop is an easy 18.9-mile path that follows the Arkansas River and circles parts of the Pueblo Reservoir. Another easy option is the Arkansas River Trail loop from Pueblo, which covers 27.4 miles.

Pueblo County boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually and mild winters, making year-round road cycling feasible. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, while summer mornings are ideal before the heat of the day. Even in winter, many days are suitable for riding.

Absolutely. The extensive multi-use trails within the city and county, such as sections of the Arkansas River Trail, are well-maintained and generally flat, making them suitable for families. These paths often pass by parks and points of interest, providing enjoyable and safe cycling experiences for all ages.

Many of the road cycling routes in Pueblo County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the Pueblo Reservoir & Pueblo loop from West Pueblo and the Liberty Point & the Pueblo Reservoir loop from Pueblo, both offering scenic circular rides around the reservoir.

Road cycling in Pueblo County offers views of diverse natural features and landmarks. You can cycle along the Arkansas River, around Lake Pueblo, and enjoy vistas of the Wet Mountains and Pikes Peak. Notable attractions include the Runyon Lake, the South Shore Trail Network, and the Lake Pueblo State Park cyclepath. The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk in downtown Pueblo also offers a blend of nature and city life.

Yes, parking is generally available at key access points for road cycling routes. Lake Pueblo State Park, a major hub for outdoor recreation, offers parking facilities. Additionally, areas like Pueblo West, which connect to the Lake Pueblo and Arkansas River Trail systems, also provide access points with parking.

While there are no routes classified as 'difficult' in this guide, Pueblo County does offer moderate road cycling routes with significant elevation changes for those seeking more of a challenge. The Pueblo to Beulah loop, for example, is a moderate 56.6-mile ride with over 2,700 feet of elevation gain, taking you towards the Wet Mountains.

Beyond traditional road cycling, Pueblo County is indeed recognized as a significant gravel biking destination. It boasts over 700 miles of unpaved roads that traverse diverse terrain, from the Wet Mountains to the Arkansas River Valley's plains and canyons. For more information on gravel cycling, you can visit visitpueblo.org.

Road cycling routes in Pueblo County vary in distance and elevation to suit different preferences. You can find shorter, easier routes around 18-27 miles with minimal elevation gain, such as the South Shore Trail Network – View of Pueblo Reservoir Dam loop from South Marina Parking. Moderate routes can range from 35 to over 56 miles, featuring elevation gains of 900 to 2,700 feet, offering more demanding rides through varied landscapes.

This guide features 7 highly-rated road cycling routes in Pueblo County, showcasing the best of the region's diverse landscapes. These routes offer options for various ability levels, from easy river paths to moderate rides with elevation changes.