The best gravel rides around Commerce City

Commerce City offers nearly 20 gravel bike routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, flat paths to more moderate routes with some rolling hills, providing diverse experiences for gravel bikers.

The gravel bike trails in Commerce City feature a diverse mix of surfaces, including dirt, gravel, and pavement. You can expect a combination of flat paths and some rolling hills, often passing through urban wildlife refuges and connecting to regional trail systems.

Yes, there are several easy gravel bike trails. For instance, the Rod and Gun Club Pond – Damaged Wooden Bridge loop from Stapleton International Airport (closed) is an easy 26.0 km route, perfect for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed ride.

Absolutely. Many of the gravel routes in Commerce City are designed as loops. A great example is the Rod and Gun Club Pond – First Creek Overlook loop from Dick's Sporting Goods Park, a moderate 36.0 km path that connects various scenic areas.

For scenic rides, consider routes that pass through natural areas. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Perimeter Trail offers opportunities to observe local wildlife, including bison. Additionally, the Sand Creek Regional Greenway provides natural scenery and connections to larger networks.

Many of the flatter sections and local park trails in Commerce City are suitable for families. Barr Lake State Park, a short drive away, offers a 'pancake-flat gravel path circumnavigating Barr Lake,' which is ideal for a family-friendly gravel ride.

While riding, you might encounter various natural and urban points of interest. The Bluff Lake Park is often part of longer loops, and you can find highlights like Lowell Ponds Wildlife Area nearby. For urban attractions, Union Station Denver and the 16th Street Mall are accessible from regional trail connections.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Commerce City, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the unique urban wildlife encounters, and the well-maintained mixed-surface paths that offer a good variety for all skill levels.

Yes, several routes incorporate water features. The Rod and Gun Club Pond – Bluff Lake Park loop from Central Park, for example, passes by Bluff Lake. Additionally, Barr Lake State Park is known for its large lake, offering excellent views and birdwatching opportunities.

Many trailheads and parks in Commerce City offer parking facilities. For instance, routes starting from Dick's Sporting Goods Park or Central Park typically have accessible parking. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge also provides designated parking areas for trail access.

Commerce City's location and connections to regional trail systems mean that some trails may be accessible via public transport, particularly those linking to larger networks like the Sand Creek Regional Greenway or parts of the South Platte River Trail. It's advisable to check local RTD routes for specific access points.

While popular routes like the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Perimeter Trail can see activity, exploring some of the local park trails or less-trafficked sections of the Sand Creek Regional Greenway might offer a more serene experience. Early mornings or weekdays are generally quieter times to ride.

One of the longer gravel routes is the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Perimeter Trail, which spans approximately 43.4 km (27.0 miles). This route offers a substantial ride around the refuge, providing ample distance for endurance training or a long day out.