The best road cycling routes around Mulford
4.8
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534
riders
23
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Road cycling around Mulford features routes with significant elevation changes, traversing mountainous terrain and river valleys. The area includes challenging climbs to passes and scenic paths along historic trails, offering diverse landscapes for cyclists. These routes often lead through elevated areas and along river corridors, providing varied gradients and views. The landscape is characterized by its natural features, including passes and river trails, which define the cycling experience.
Best road cycling routes around Mulford
- The most popular road cycling route is Old Coulter and Missouri Heights Schoolhouse loop from Carbondale, a 32.9 miles (53.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 36 minutes to complete. This moderate route features over 2,200 feet (678 meters) of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Schoolhouse Figure-8 from Carbondale, a difficult 44.1 miles (71.0 km) path. This route includes over 3,400 feet (1,042 meters) of climbing, offering a substantial challenge.
- Local road cyclists also love the Carbondale to McClure Pass, a 50.7 miles (81.6 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain, often completed in about 3 hours 50 minutes.
- Road cycling around Mulford is defined by significant elevation changes, river valleys, and mountainous passes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate climbs to difficult, long-distance routes.
- The routes in Mulford are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Mulford's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
22
riders
53.0km
02:36
680m
680m
Cycle the moderate 32.9-mile Old Coulter and Missouri Heights Schoolhouse loop from Carbondale, featuring 2227 feet of climbing and scenic v
21
riders
71.0km
03:41
1,040m
1,040m
This difficult 44.1-mile road cycling route from Carbondale features 3420 feet of elevation gain, scenic views, and historic schoolhouses.
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18
riders
81.6km
03:50
900m
900m
This moderate 50.7-mile road cycling route from Carbondale to McClure Pass offers challenging climbs and stunning views of the Crystal River
17
riders
92.4km
04:08
700m
700m
Cycle 57.4 miles (92.4 km) from Carbondale to Marble, gaining 2298 feet (700 metres) on this moderate road cycling route.
5.0
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58
riders
38.1km
01:48
150m
150m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
From this pedestrian bridge, you can enjoy a view above the Roaring Fork River. Here is the connection between the Rio Grande Trail and the Atkinson Canal Trail. This is an easy walk/bike trail that runs alongside the river. Rio Grande Trail connects Glenwood Springs to Aspen, so you can choose your distance and go for as long as you like.
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The Roaring Fork River is a fast-flowing and crystal-clear tributary of the Colorado River, extending for 70 miles through stunning canyons and valleys. It begins at Independence Lake in the Sawatch Range and winds its way past the towns of Aspen, Basalt, and Carbondale before it merges with the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs. Known for its fast and exciting currents, the river attracts many thrill-seekers and is a prime spot for whitewater rafting.
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From this pedestrian bridge, you can enjoy a view above the Roaring Fork River. Here is the connection between the Rio Grande Trail and the Atkinson Canal Trail. This is an easy walk/bike trail that runs alongside the river. Rio Grande Trail connects Glenwood Springs to Aspen, so you can choose your distance and walk for as long as you like.
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Satank Bridge spans the Roaring Fork River and was constructed in a style to resemble the period of wagon bridges. On the bridge, you have a view up the Elk Scenic Corridor and a backdrop of majestic Mount Sopris. The bridge is also called "pink bridge" due to the pink hue it takes at sunset.
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Beaver Lake is a large, popular lake in Marble, Colorado. You can swim and fish in the lake (it's cold, though), and you can follow the service road that passes by it and check out more of the natural and historical features along the Crystal City Road.
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The Rio Grande Trail is a paved bike path which parallels the highway and Roaring Fork River here between Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. There are public restrooms off the trail near the middle of this segment. From the trail you get splendid views of the canyons and rivers.
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Carbondale is a picturesque town located at the base of Mt. Sopris and confluence of the Crystal and Roaring Fork Rivers. National Geographic Adventure Magazine has ranked it as one of "The Top 10 Adventure Towns in the U.S.", so there is no shortage of outdoor activities. It is also a "Certified Colorado Creative District", so it has a vibrant art scene as well.
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This school was built it 1917 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. Surrounded by sagebrush and cattle this property includes schoolhouse, two outhouses, and a coal shed. The schoolhouse is also available for public use and is a venue for wedding, birthdays, mitzvahs, and any other social occasion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Mulford?
There are over 20 road cycling routes available around Mulford, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling near Mulford?
Road cycling around Mulford features significant elevation changes, traversing mountainous terrain and river valleys. You can expect challenging climbs to passes and scenic paths along historic trails, with varied gradients and views.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in the Mulford area?
The road cycling routes around Mulford are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain and challenging climbs.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners around Mulford?
Yes, there are a few routes considered easy, making them suitable for beginners. While the region is known for its challenging climbs, there are options to ease into road cycling.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs?
For a substantial challenge, consider the Schoolhouse Figure-8 from Carbondale, which includes over 3,400 feet (1,042 meters) of climbing. Another option is Carbondale to McClure Pass, leading through mountainous terrain.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes in the Mulford area?
Yes, several routes offer longer distances. For example, Carbondale to Marble is over 57 miles (92 km) long, and Carbondale to McClure Pass covers about 50 miles (81.6 km).
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, you can find circular routes such as the Old Coulter and Missouri Heights Schoolhouse loop from Carbondale, which is a moderate 32.9-mile (53.0 km) trail.
What scenic views or natural features can I expect on road cycling routes around Mulford?
The routes often lead through elevated areas and along river corridors, providing varied gradients and views. You might encounter natural features like Mushroom Rock and scenic sections of the Rio Grande Trail.
Are there any interesting landmarks or points of interest along the road cycling routes?
Yes, you can pass through charming settlements like Carbondale, and cross historic structures like the Satank Bridge, offering glimpses into the region's character.
Is parking available near the road cycling routes?
Yes, there are designated parking areas. For instance, the Sutey Ranch Trailhead is a known parking location that provides access to routes in the area.
What are some popular starting points for road cycling in the Mulford area?
Many popular routes, including the Old Coulter and Missouri Heights Schoolhouse loop and Schoolhouse Figure-8, begin from Carbondale, making it a convenient hub for cyclists.
Are there any routes that follow river valleys?
Yes, the region's landscape is characterized by river valleys, and many routes incorporate these scenic corridors. The Rio Grande Trail – Carbondale loop is an example of a route that utilizes a river trail.
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