The best cycling routes around Prairie Ridge
4.8
(40)
499
riders
16
rides
Touring cycling around Prairie Ridge, specifically the Natural Area in Loveland, Colorado, offers routes through varied terrain. The western portion features hogbacks and shale ridges, while the eastern two-thirds includes active agriculture. The area encompasses shortgrass prairie and foothills shrubland, providing diverse landscapes for cycling. Sweeping views of the foothills and plains are present along many routes.
Best touring cycling routes around Prairie Ridge
- The most popular touring cycling route is Foothills Trail, a 40.7 miles (65.6 km) trail…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.7
(9)
107
riders
65.6km
03:49
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
71
riders
38.2km
02:12
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(4)
66
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
13.3km
00:46
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
75
riders
34.7km
01:57
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Prairie Ridge
Tips from the Community
Just a simple bridge with Voight Creek views.
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The Foothills Trail is a mostly paved 21-mile path from Puyallup toward Mount Rainier, perfect for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Enjoy views of Mount Rainier, wildlife, and historic sites like Melmont ghost town. Multiple access points make it easy to explore sections at your pace.
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Love this bridge. Would love it more if the trail actually crossed over the old broken bridge just one tenth of a mile farther north...
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This is a fantastic viewpoint along the river, and the paved section of trail here is easily done on a road bike.
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The Foothills Trail parallels the Carbon River for many miles, but your view is often obscured by foliage. Here you get a clear view of the river from the trail, as well as the verdant flora overhanging its banks.
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This section of the Riverwalk Trail, a popular, paved multi-use trail, follows Puyallup River. This is a nice spot close to downtown Sumner, Washington, along the water. Although it's sometimes a little hard to see the river through the trees, it's still a great section of trail.
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A lovely curved wooden bridge that is just gorgeous and naturey
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Very nice trail from just south of Sumner around a big loop through Orting and up to Buckley. The best section is a loop-de-loop S-curve to climb a hill between South Prairie and Buckley - very secluded and completely tree-lined. Once you get to Buckley, you need to turn around because there is a missing bridge to cross over into Enumclaw. It would be a welcome addition, as the highway is heavily trafficked with extremely fast, loud trucks who don't give much passing room. Proceed with care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Prairie Ridge?
Touring cycling in Prairie Ridge offers a diverse landscape. You'll encounter hogbacks and shale ridges in the western parts, providing varied elevation. The eastern two-thirds feature active agricultural lands, while the overall area includes shortgrass prairie and foothills shrubland. Many routes also offer sweeping views of the foothills and plains.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Prairie Ridge?
Yes, Prairie Ridge offers several routes suitable for beginners. There are 4 easy touring cycling routes available. One example is the Rest Stop by the Carbon River loop from Orting, which is 8.3 miles (13.3 km) long and has minimal elevation gain.
What are the options for more challenging touring cycling routes in Prairie Ridge?
While most routes are moderate, there is one difficult touring cycling route in Prairie Ridge for those seeking a greater challenge. The region's hogbacks and shale ridges contribute to varied terrain that can test experienced cyclists.
Can I bring my dog or e-bike on the touring cycling trails in Prairie Ridge?
No, to help conserve the natural area and protect wildlife, dogs and e-bikes are not permitted on the trails within Prairie Ridge Natural Area in Loveland, Colorado.
What kind of wildlife might I see while cycling in Prairie Ridge?
Prairie Ridge is home to a rich array of wildlife. Cyclists might spot raptors, various songbirds, coyotes, red foxes, bobcats, and mule deer, especially in the shortgrass prairie and foothills shrubland habitats.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for along the routes?
Yes, many routes offer sweeping views of the foothills and plains. You can also find specific points of interest like the View of Carbon River from Foothill Trail. The area's unique hogbacks, shale ridges, and tributary wetlands also provide interesting natural scenery.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Prairie Ridge?
Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes. For example, the Rest Stop by the Carbon River – Foothills Trail loop from McMillin is a moderate 23.8 miles (38.2 km) path, and the Rest Stop by the Carbon River – Foothills Trail loop from Foothills Trailhead is a 22.3 miles (35.9 km) loop.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Prairie Ridge?
The touring cycling routes in Prairie Ridge are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 10 reviews. Over 200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and extensive regional connections.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Prairie Ridge?
The best time to go touring cycling in Prairie Ridge is generally during the spring and fall months when temperatures are milder. Summer can be hot, and winter may bring snow or icy conditions, though some trails might be accessible depending on the weather.
Are there any facilities or attractions near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, along some routes, you can find facilities and attractions. For instance, the Rest Stop by the Carbon River is a notable facility. You might also encounter the Outdoor Fitness Area on the Sumner Link Trail and the Sumner Link Trail itself.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Prairie Ridge?
There are 16 touring cycling routes available in Prairie Ridge, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult.
Is Prairie Ridge suitable for family-friendly touring cycling?
Yes, Prairie Ridge offers options for family-friendly touring cycling, particularly on its easier routes. The 2.4-mile natural surface trail system and the 1.9-mile ADA-accessible Prairie Ridge Trail provide gentler options for families to enjoy the outdoors.
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