The best road cycling routes around Loveland

The Loveland Recreation Trail Loop offers an easy road cycling experience, covering 20.8 miles (33.5 km) with a gentle 404 feet (123 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 41 minutes. This paved route provides a delightful journey through diverse scenery, from the continuous lake views along the western shore of Boyd Lake State Park to winding sections through agricultural landscapes, urban prairies, and wetland meadows. You'll find the terrain smooth and manageable, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the loop is easily accessible and connects to several parks like Centennial Park and Fairgrounds Park, which often feature amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas. The trail forms a complete loop around the city of Loveland, and its quarter-mile markers help you keep track of your progress. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned, making it a hassle-free option for a day out.

This trail is notable for its excellent connectivity, linking into a broader paved trail system that includes routes like the Long View Trail and the Colorado Front Range Trail. The full loop was completed in 2021, ensuring a continuous and enjoyable experience. As you cycle, keep an eye out for wildlife, especially birds, in natural areas like Fossil Creek, which adds to the trail's appeal beyond just the cycling itself.

This easy 14.5-mile (23.4 km) road cycling loop, with a gentle 333 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. You'll ride a smooth ribbon of pavement, connecting Loveland and Fort Collins while passing through natural areas and preserved agricultural lands. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you traverse sections like the Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area, enjoying expansive views of the foothills and mountains.

Its fully paved surface makes the Fossil Creek and Long View Trail Loop incredibly accessible for road cyclists of all abilities. The minimal elevation changes mean you can enjoy a relaxed ride without significant physical demands, making it a great option for families or those seeking a leisurely outing. No special permits are needed, and its connectivity makes it a convenient choice for travel between the two cities.

The Long View Trail component of this loop was recognized with the 2019 Colorado Lottery Starburst Award, highlighting its quality and significance. It serves as a vital non-motorized connection between Loveland and Fort Collins, traversing multiple open spaces like Sunset Vista and Long View Open Space, which protect agricultural lands and wildlife habitat.

This road cycling route offers a diverse experience, starting with the gentle, paved paths along the Big Thompson River, where you'll glide through open meadows and shady forested sections, especially vibrant in the Cottonwood Run Natural Area. As you progress, the terrain gradually shifts, leading you towards the more challenging climbs that culminate in the rewarding vistas from the Carter Lake Overlook, showcasing expansive views of the plains and the reservoir. It's a journey from tranquil riverside pedaling to exhilarating ascents with panoramic payoffs.

To make the most of this ride, plan your visit for spring, particularly May, when the weather is pleasant and the riverside foliage is at its peak. You can easily park at Cottonwood Run Natural Area, which provides a clear starting point for the loop. While the Big Thompson River Trail sections are generally flat, be prepared for significant climbs on the approach to Carter Lake, so ensure you're well-hydrated and have appropriate gear for the elevation gain.

This route is a fantastic way to connect with the natural beauty of the Loveland area, linking various parks and natural spaces. It combines the accessible Loveland Recreation Trail system with a more strenuous segment to the Carter Lake Overlook, offering a comprehensive road cycling experience. The trail is known for its clear signage and serves as a popular option for those looking to combine a leisurely ride with a more challenging climb and stunning Front Range views.

The Fossil Creek Park – Fossil Creek loop offers a delightful road cycling experience through Fort Collins' acclaimed trail network. You'll glide along mostly paved paths, enjoying expansive views of the Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area and the tranquil waters of Portner Reservoir. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like prairie dogs and various raptors as you cycle through this pleasant landscape.

This easy 22.2-mile (35.8 km) route, with a modest 498 feet (152 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely ride, taking approximately 1 hour and 51 minutes. Starting from Mountain View High School, the trail is well-integrated into the city's system, offering connections to other routes like the Mason Trail. Fossil Creek Park itself provides convenient amenities such as restrooms and picnic areas.

Part of Fort Collins' platinum-rated cycling infrastructure, this loop is especially family-friendly due to its gentle terrain and numerous parks along the way. It's an excellent choice for beginners or anyone seeking a relaxed ride through natural preserves and residential areas, showcasing the city's commitment to quality multi-use pathways.