The best cycling routes around Denver

Denver's touring cycling routes offer a diverse range of terrain. You can expect everything from relatively flat urban paths and river trails along the South Platte River and Cherry Creek, to routes with moderate elevation changes as you head towards the foothills of the Front Range. This variety caters to different cycling preferences and fitness levels.

Yes, Denver offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Warwick-to-Ephrata Rail-Trail – Heatherwood Bike Park loop from Ephrata is an easy 5.8-mile path that includes a section of the scenic Warwick-to-Ephrata Rail-Trail. Another easy option is the Bike loop from East Cocalico Township, which is about 7.8 miles long with minimal elevation gain.

Touring cycling in Denver provides consistently stunning views, especially of the Rocky Mountains' Front Range. Many routes follow picturesque riverine environments along the South Platte River and Cherry Creek. You'll also find tranquil settings within urban parks and green spaces, offering a blend of cityscapes and natural beauty. The region's varied topography ensures a dynamic visual experience.

Yes, Denver's routes can lead you to various points of interest. While cycling, you might encounter natural features like Middle Creek Reservoir or the Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. Some routes also pass through areas with historical significance, such as the Ruins along Elder's Run Trail. The city's extensive trail system connects to iconic spots like Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, offering breathtaking red sandstone formations.

Yes, there are several loop options for touring cyclists in Denver. For instance, the Gravel road loop from Ephrata is a moderate 30.2-mile trail that offers varied terrain in a circular format. Another option is the Lititz – Gravel section loop from Ephrata, a more challenging 34-mile loop.

The touring cycling routes in Denver are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 13 reviews. More than 114 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region, often praising the diverse landscapes, from urban settings to the foothills, and the extensive network of riverine paths and green spaces.

Yes, if you enjoy riding on gravel, Denver has options for you. The Gravel section – Lititz loop from Akron is an 11.5-mile easy route specifically featuring gravel sections, making it suitable for touring bicycles.

There are 7 touring cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Denver area, ranging in difficulty from easy to difficult. This selection provides a good starting point for exploring the region's diverse cycling opportunities.

Denver's touring cycling routes offer varied elevation profiles. While many urban and river trails are relatively flat, routes leading into the foothills of the Front Range will feature moderate to significant elevation changes. For example, the Lititz – Gravel section loop from Ephrata includes over 1,900 feet of ascent, providing a more challenging climb.

Denver has a robust public transportation system, including buses and light rail, with many routes offering bike racks. This makes it feasible to use public transport to reach various trailheads and connect to the city's extensive network of bike paths. It's advisable to check the RTD Denver website for specific route information and bike policies.

Denver generally offers excellent cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal. Summers are also popular, though it's best to start rides earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Even mild winter days can be suitable for cycling on paved, cleared trails.

While popular trails like the South Platte River Trail and Cherry Creek Trail can get busy, Denver's extensive network means you can often find quieter routes. Exploring trails slightly further from the immediate city center or opting for routes during off-peak hours can lead to a more serene cycling experience. The region's commitment to expanding its bikeway system also means new, less-trafficked options are continuously emerging.