The best cycling routes in Saint Vrain State Park
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Touring cycling in Saint Vrain State Park offers routes through a landscape characterized by 11 distinct ponds, marshes, willow thickets, and cottonwood stands. The park spans over 600 acres of land and features more than 150 acres of water, providing a tranquil setting for cycling. Trails are generally flat and accessible, with some routes connecting to a larger county trail system. This area is known for its diverse habitats and views of Longs Peak.
Best touring cycling routes in Saint Vrain State Park
- The most popular touring cycling route is Izaak Walton Park – Golden Ponds loop from Sandstone Ranch Community Park, a 16.8 miles (27.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 33 minutes to complete. This easy route offers scenic views of the park's ponds and surrounding natural features.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Left Hand Creek Trail – Sandstone Ranch Community Park loop from Sandstone Ranch E2 Large Shelter, an easy 12.4 miles (20.0 km) path. This route provides a connection to the wider county trail system, traversing varied landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Longmont Loop - South, a 14.7 miles (23.7 km) trail leading through varied terrain with distant views of Longs Peak, often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Saint Vrain State Park is defined by its numerous ponds, cottonwood groves, and open fields, with routes offering options for easy to difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Saint Vrain State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 270 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Saint Vrain State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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23.7km
01:24
90m
90m
The Longmont Loop - South offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you through a varied landscape of green meadows, wetlands, and cottonwood forests, especially along the Saint Vrain Greenway. The path is mostly paved, providing a smooth ride, though you might encounter some hard-packed gravel sections. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like herons, falcons, and even deer as you enjoy the peaceful riverside scenery and occasional glimpses of the Front Range mountains.
This easy 14.7-mile (23.7 km) route, with only 286 feet (87 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed ride that takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes. The trail is well-integrated into Longmont's pathway system, featuring underpasses at key intersections for safety and continuity. You'll find amenities like restrooms and water fountains in the parks along the way, making it a convenient option for all skill levels, including families.
What makes this route stand out is its role as an integral part of Longmont's extensive multi-use pathway network, connecting to other local trails. The natural areas along the St. Vrain River are excellent for birdwatching, offering chances to spot various species. The city provides resources like a bike map, highlighting rental and repair spots, further enhancing the cycling experience in the area.
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32
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43.7km
02:32
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
31
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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28.1km
01:38
60m
60m
The Izaak Walton Park – Golden Ponds loop offers a fantastic escape into nature right in Longmont, Colorado. You'll pedal along mostly paved paths and some flat, packed gravel sections, winding past the St. Vrain River and through several city nature areas like Roger's Grove. The highlight is undoubtedly Golden Ponds, where you can enjoy expansive water views and stunning backdrops of Longs Peak and the Front Range, often spotting waterfowl like great blue herons. It's an easy 17.5-mile (28.1 km) ride with only 195 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a leisurely 1 hour and 37 minute outing.
Planning your trip requires a quick check of current conditions, as a significant portion of the St. Vrain Greenway is undergoing flood mitigation construction. This means you'll encounter a marked 1.1-mile on-street detour between Izaak Walton Park and Ken Pratt Blvd, which is expected to be in place through 2025. It's always a good idea to consult the City of Longmont's trail status map for the latest updates before you go. This route is very accessible and suitable for all skill levels.
This loop is a key part of Longmont's
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42.3km
02:28
120m
120m
The Izaak Walton Park – Golden Ponds loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through Longmont's scenic St. Vrain Greenway. You'll glide along mostly flat, well-maintained paths, enjoying picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains, including Longs Peak, while passing by the tranquil waters of Golden Ponds. Keep an eye out for diverse waterfowl and other wildlife as the trail meanders alongside the St. Vrain Creek through woodlands and native grasses.
This moderate 26.3-mile (42.3 km) route, with a gentle 396 feet (121 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes to complete. Note that a construction project in the Izaak Walton Reach 2 area (between Boston Avenue and Sunset Street) will require a detour until Fall 2026, so plan accordingly. The County Rd Trailhead provides convenient access for this family-friendly bike ride.
As a key segment of the St. Vrain Greenway, this route is celebrated as the “crown jewel” of Longmont's trail system, connecting several nature areas. Golden Ponds, a former gravel mining site, now boasts 56 acres of water across four ponds, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. This trail is also a vital link in the ambitious Front Range Trail plan, aiming to connect Wyoming to New Mexico.
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Tips from the Community
This is the intersection of the Saint Vrain Greenway and Left Hand Creek Trail Trailhead. The Left Hand Creek Trail will take you all the way into Boulder, so it is a great way to go from Union Reservoir into the city.
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Golden Ponds are three beautiful ponds along the Lykins Gulch Greenway. There is a boardwalk that takes you out towards the center of the main pond, so that you can take in the surrounding scenery.
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The trail around the ponds is a paved bike path with a flat packed gravel side. The ponds are beautiful, especially at dawn and sunset, and there is a parking lot with restrooms on the northeast side.
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This smooth, relatively flat trail cuts diagonally across the city as is follows its namesake creek. You'll pass through a number of neighborhoods and parks before the trail connects with the LoBo Trail (Longmont to Boulder), where you can continue on to Boulder if you like.
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The Sandstone Ranch Park in Longmont, Colorado, is a vast recreational and natural area that offers a variety of amenities and activities. It spans over 313 acres, featuring athletic fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and extensive walking and biking trails, including the St. Vrain River Greenway. The park also includes historical sites, such as the Sandstone Ranch Visitors & Learning Center, which offers educational programs about the local environment and history. Additionally, the park hosts community events and sports programs, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
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This is a fantastic spot along the Niwot Loop Trail. There is a large parking lot and restrooms. You can follow the Overbrook Trail north along Dry Creek for a more rural run or head south through town. This is a part of the Longmount to Boulder (LoBo) Trail.
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The park has ample parking, nice green space, and restrooms. The bike path follows the creek here for a ways and is a great scenic path that connects to a number of other routes around Longmount.
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Well maintained multi use path along the Saint Vrain River. Though it leads through the middle of the city it very much feels like being out in the nature. You run along green meadows and follow the meandering waters of the river. You can spot a lot of different birds here and parks and small lakes offer nice places for a rest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Saint Vrain State Park?
Saint Vrain State Park features over 15 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with the majority being easy, making them accessible for most cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes in Saint Vrain State Park?
The terrain in Saint Vrain State Park is generally flat and easy, making it suitable for leisurely cycling. You'll ride through diverse landscapes including marshes, willow thickets, fields, and cottonwood stands, with picturesque views of the park's 11 distinct ponds. Some routes also offer distant views of Longs Peak.
Are there any family-friendly cycling routes in Saint Vrain State Park?
Yes, Saint Vrain State Park is an excellent destination for family cycling. Many of the park's trails are flat, easy, and ADA accessible, making them suitable for all ages and skill levels. Routes like the Izaak Walton Park – Golden Ponds loop from Sandstone Ranch Community Park are popular choices for a relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the cycling trails in Saint Vrain State Park?
Yes, Saint Vrain State Park is dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on a leash on the trails, allowing you to enjoy a ride with your canine companion. Remember to always clean up after your pet.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the park?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Saint Vrain State Park are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. Examples include the Left Hand Creek Trail – Sandstone Ranch Community Park loop from Sandstone Ranch E2 Large Shelter and the Longmont Loop - South, which provide varied scenery and return to your starting point.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while cycling in Saint Vrain State Park?
Saint Vrain State Park is a renowned birding destination, often called a 'birding paradise.' While cycling, you might spot a wide array of bird species, including Great Blue Herons, migrating waterfowl, songbirds, raptors, and bald eagles, especially in winter. Other wildlife sightings can include deer, foxes, beavers, and occasionally even a moose.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about Saint Vrain State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's tranquil setting, the scenic views of its numerous ponds, and the generally flat and accessible trails that make for enjoyable rides for all skill levels.
Do I need a permit or pay a fee to cycle in Saint Vrain State Park?
Yes, a valid Colorado State Parks pass or daily entrance fee is required to enter Saint Vrain State Park. This fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the park's facilities and natural beauty. You can purchase passes at the park entrance or online.
Are there restrooms and water fountains available along the cycling routes?
Yes, Saint Vrain State Park provides amenities such as restrooms and water fountains, particularly near visitor areas and campgrounds. It's always a good idea to carry your own water, especially on longer rides, but facilities are available for convenience.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for while cycling?
The park's most prominent natural features are its 11 distinct ponds, which offer beautiful views and attract diverse wildlife. You'll also encounter marshes, willow thickets, and cottonwood stands. On clear days, many routes provide stunning distant views of Longs Peak, a significant landmark in the Colorado Front Range.
Is there parking available at Saint Vrain State Park for cyclists?
Yes, Saint Vrain State Park offers ample parking for visitors. There are designated parking areas and trailheads throughout the park, making it convenient to access the cycling routes. Specific parking information can often be found on the park's official website or at the visitor center.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near Saint Vrain State Park?
While Saint Vrain State Park itself focuses on natural recreation, the nearby city of Longmont offers a variety of cafes and restaurants. You'll find options for refreshments and meals just a short drive from the park, perfect for before or after your ride.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Saint Vrain State Park?
Saint Vrain State Park is enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to ride in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible, especially on paved trails, but be mindful of snow and ice conditions.
Most popular routes in Saint Vrain State Park
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