The best road cycling routes around Monument
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Road cycling around Monument, Colorado, offers diverse terrain in the picturesque Front Range, just north of Colorado Springs. The region features rolling hills and forests, providing scenic views of the majestic Rocky Mountains, including Pikes Peak. Cyclists can find a mix of paved roads and sections that incorporate crushed stone trails, catering to various preferences.
Best road cycling routes around Monument
- The most popular road cycling route is Palmer Lake Recreation Area loop, a 29.4 miles (47.3 km) trail that takes 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. This route offers views of Palmer Lake and the surrounding natural landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Black Forest loop, a moderate 41.7 miles (67.0 km) path. This route winds through forested areas with varied elevation changes.
- Local road cyclists also love the Fox Run Regional Park loop, a 23.9 miles (38.5 km) trail leading through Fox Run Regional Park, often completed in about 1 hour 47 minutes.
- Road cycling around Monument is defined by rolling hills, forests, and distant views of the Rocky Mountains and Pikes Peak. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging rides with significant elevation gains.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 100 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Monument's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
6
riders
47.3km
02:16
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
1
riders
38.5km
01:47
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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1
riders
67.1km
03:17
760m
760m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
1
riders
20.8km
01:01
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
62.3km
02:53
680m
680m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Black Forest is a small community that sits at 7,575 feet in elevation, where the high plains begin to meet the foothills. The town's name comes from the thick forest of ponderosa pine that resembles a large black mass when viewed from the summit of Pikes Peak.
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Bristlecone Lake is a private active lake that is open to HOA Permit Holders only. However, the lake serves as a water storage and drinking source facility owned and maintained by the Forest Lakes Metropolitan District.
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Palmer Lake Recreation Area is a 36-acre recreation site at the foot of Ben Lomond Mountain and is a popular spot to enjoy fishing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
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This 417-acre park offers 4 miles of trails, open fields with playgrounds, two lakes, and a gazebo where you might witness a wedding ceremony taking place. Due to receiving more snow than other parts of the Colorado Springs area, it's a great spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.
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Across the street from the Air Force Academy main campus is the Air Force Academy Airfield that has a designated parachute landing zone.
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When you're at Palmer Lake Regional Recreation Area, you're halfway there. Its lake, lawns and picnic area are perfect for a short break before heading back.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Monument?
Road cycling around Monument features diverse terrain, including rolling hills and forests. You'll find a mix of paved roads and sections that incorporate crushed stone trails, particularly along the Palmer Lake Recreation Area loop, offering varied riding experiences.
Are there road cycling routes for different skill levels in Monument?
Yes, Monument offers routes catering to various skill levels. You can find easy loops, such as the Bristlecone Lake loop, as well as more challenging rides with significant elevation gains, like the Black Forest loop, which has over 750 meters of ascent.
What scenic views or landmarks can I expect to see while cycling in Monument?
Many routes offer stunning vistas of the majestic Rocky Mountains, including Pikes Peak. You can also enjoy views of serene spots like Palmer Lake, especially on the Palmer Lake Recreation Area loop. The area's natural beauty includes rolling hills and pristine forests, creating an inspiring backdrop for your rides.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in Monument?
For families, the Bristlecone Lake loop is an easy option, covering about 20.8 kilometers with moderate elevation. Fox Run Regional Park also features extensive trails suitable for leisurely cycling, such as the Fox Run Regional Park loop, which is a moderate 38.5 km ride.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Monument?
Monument's location in the Front Range generally offers pleasant conditions for cycling. While specific seasonal considerations can vary, spring and fall often provide ideal temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer mornings are also excellent before the heat of the day.
Are there circular road cycling routes available in Monument?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Monument are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Palmer Lake Recreation Area loop, the Black Forest loop, and the Fox Run Regional Park loop.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Monument?
Many regional parks and trailheads in and around Monument offer parking facilities. For instance, areas near Palmer Lake and Fox Run Regional Park are popular starting points and typically have designated parking for visitors accessing the trails.
What attractions are near the road cycling routes in Monument?
Along your rides, you can explore several natural attractions. Highlights include various lakes such as Lower Palmer Reservoir, Aspen Lake and Gazebo, and Palmer Lake Regional Recreation Area. You might also spot mountain peaks like Sundance Mountain.
How many road cycling routes are available in Monument?
There are over 15 road cycling routes available around Monument, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the region's beautiful landscapes.
Are there any routes that connect Monument to other towns or areas?
Yes, routes like the Monument to US Air Force Academy loop provide a longer ride, connecting Monument to nearby areas and offering a different perspective of the region.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Monument?
Road cyclists often praise Monument for its diverse terrain, offering a mix of paved roads and scenic crushed stone trails. The stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and Pikes Peak, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of areas like Palmer Lake, are frequently highlighted as favorite aspects of cycling here.
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