The best cycling routes around Ken Caryl
4.5
(171)
4,433
riders
144
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ken Caryl are set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountain foothills, featuring diverse landscapes and extensive trail networks. The region is characterized by striking red rock formations and varied terrain, including both paved surfaces and unpaved segments. Natural features such as Big Soda Lake and Chatfield State Park are integral to the landscape, offering picturesque routes. The area also includes extensive open spaces with numerous trails winding through valleys and past hills.
Best touring cyclingโฆ
Last updated: May 16, 2026
494
riders
50.3km
03:44
1,130m
1,130m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
41
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(5)
36
riders
28.5km
01:50
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
28
riders
69.4km
04:14
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
28
riders
29.3km
01:42
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Pedaling along the Dakota Ridge service road, youโll hit the famous Dinosaur Tracksite, where ancient footprints in Dakota sandstone are stained for visibility. Over 300 tracks left by iguanodonts and small theropods lie just off the path.
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This is a nice overlook near Mt. Carbon, with expansive views of the Denver skyline, Bear Lake Park, and Mount Falcon Park in the background. Bear Creek Trail ends here, making it a great spot to pause, sit for a bit, and enjoy the views.
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Bear Creek Lake Park spans 2,624 acres and is a great spot for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as swimming, fishing, and boating year-round recreation. Open from April 1 to October 31, the campground is one of the closest full-service options near Denver. Visitors can also enjoy picnic shelters, paved and unpaved trails, an archery range, and scenic reservoirs.
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scenic high point above Bear Creek Reservoir, between the Denver skyline and the foothills - a bike path all the way http://www.cyclepass.com/t_p_Bear_Creek_Res.html
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Mount Carbon dominates Bear Creek Lake State Park, near the eastern entrance to the park, rising to an elevation of 6,000 feet (1759 meters). It offers a great vantage point from which to view the early ranges of the Rocky Mountains.
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Dinosaur Ridge is a great paved trail to bring the kids to. It's closed to cars (save for the dinosaur visitor tour shuttle bus) and has other trails you can wander off on after locking up the bikes. The entirety of the trail is wheel chair accessible with toilets and seating along the way. On the ridge itself, you'll find fossils and educational plaques.
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Mann Reservoir has tall red rock features on the north-east side of the reservoir. The Swallow Trail will take visitors closest to the rock features. There is also parking on the north end of the reservoir.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Ken Caryl?
Ken Caryl offers an extensive network of over 220 cycling routes and bike trails. These range from easy, paved paths suitable for all fitness levels to challenging rides with significant elevation gains, ensuring options for every touring cyclist.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes for beginners or families?
Yes, Ken Caryl has numerous easy, paved paths perfect for beginners or family outings. While specific easy routes aren't highlighted here, the region's diverse trail network includes many options with minimal elevation gain. You can find over 50 easy touring cycling routes on komoot for the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl?
The terrain in Ken Caryl is remarkably diverse. You'll find both smooth, paved surfaces ideal for road cycling and more challenging unpaved segments. Routes wind through the Rocky Mountain foothills, offering stunning views, and pass through prairie grass, red rock formations, and various parks.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl are designed as loops. For example, the Pleasant Park Grange Rest Stop โ View from City View Drive loop from Aspen Park is a popular difficult loop, and the Hogback Hill Park loop from Hildebrand Ranch Park offers a moderate option.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Ken Caryl's routes offer access to beautiful natural features and landmarks. You can cycle past lakes like Big Soda Lake and Bear Creek Lake, or explore areas with striking red rock formations. The Walker House Ruins also offer a historical point of interest.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ken Caryl?
The touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from nearly 150 reviews. Over 4000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic beauty and diverse options available.
Are there any routes that offer views of lakes or reservoirs?
Absolutely. Routes like the Big Soda Lake โ Dinosaur Ridge loop from Columbine High School and the Big Soda Lake loop from Ken Caryl provide excellent views of Big Soda Lake. The region also features Bear Creek Lake and Chatfield Reservoir, offering picturesque waterside cycling opportunities.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced riders looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Pleasant Park Grange Rest Stop โ View from City View Drive loop from Aspen Park, with over 1100 meters of climbing, and the View from City View Drive loop from Classification Natural Resource Protection, with nearly 1000 meters of ascent, are excellent options for a demanding ride.
Can I find parking near the trailheads in Ken Caryl?
Yes, many parks and open spaces in the Ken Caryl area, such as Hildebrand Ranch Park, Deer Creek Canyon, and South Valley Park, offer designated parking areas for trail access. It's advisable to check specific park websites for detailed parking information before your ride.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ken Caryl?
Ken Caryl offers great cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, so early morning rides are often preferred. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on some trails, especially at higher elevations.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the touring cycling routes for a break?
While specific cafes and pubs directly on the trails are not listed, the Ken Caryl community and surrounding areas offer various establishments where you can stop for refreshments. Many trailheads are located near residential and commercial zones, making it convenient to find places to eat or drink.
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