The best gravel rides around Cherry Creek

There are over 25 gravel bike routes around Cherry Creek, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes of varying difficulty, from easy loops to more challenging rides with significant elevation gain.

Yes, Cherry Creek offers several easy gravel routes. The Blackmer Lake loop from Greenwood Village is an easy 13.1-mile path with varying surfaces, suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride. Cherry Creek State Park itself has many miles of crushed gravel paths that are generally flat and family-friendly.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, consider the Sumac Hill Farm viewpoint – Mineral Avenue Trail loop from Orchard. This difficult 40.4-mile route offers views over Sumac Hill Farm and the Big Dry Creek basin. Another difficult option is the Bluffs Regional Park – Highlands Point Viewpoint loop from Sky Ridge, a 29.9-mile trail through prairie grasslands with scenic viewpoints.

Gravel biking in Cherry Creek primarily features gentle, rolling hills, expansive prairie grasslands, and riparian zones, with the prominent Cherry Creek Reservoir at its heart. Many trails offer scenic views of the Front Range mountains and the Denver cityscape. You'll also encounter diverse ecosystems, including wetlands like the Cottonwood Creek Wetlands, which are great for wildlife viewing.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Cherry Creek are designed as loops. For example, the Gravel loop from Cherry Hills Village is a moderate 22.4-mile ride. The Bluffs Regional Park – East/West Regional Trail loop from Lincoln is another moderate 15.2-mile loop.

Along the trails, you can explore natural features like the Cherry Creek Reservoir, which is popular for water sports and offers beautiful views. The Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve is another highlight. The Cherry Creek Trail – South Section and the High Line Canal Trail – Greenwood Village Section also offer scenic stretches and connections to various points of interest.

Yes, Cherry Creek State Park is very accessible by bike. Cyclists can often enter the park without a vehicle entry fee if they bike or walk in, making it a convenient option from surrounding areas, including a direct connection via the Cherry Creek bike path from downtown Denver. The Cherry Creek State Park South Entrance is one access point.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Cherry Creek, with pleasant temperatures and dry trails. While winter riding is possible, conditions can vary, with potential for snow and ice, especially on unpaved sections. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out in colder months.

Cherry Creek State Park features a large off-leash dog park, and many multi-use trails within the park and surrounding areas are dog-friendly, provided they are on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations before bringing your dog, especially in protected natural areas.

The Cherry Creek area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 13 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, ranging from easy crushed gravel paths to more challenging singletrack, and the beautiful natural prairie landscapes, wetlands, and views of the Cherry Creek Reservoir and Front Range mountains.

Absolutely. The diverse ecosystems within Cherry Creek State Park, including its natural prairie landscape and wetlands, support a rich variety of wildlife. You might spot over 300 species of birds, including bald eagles and various waterfowl, as well as mammals like mule deer, coyotes, foxes, and prairie dogs. The Cottonwood Creek Wetlands are particularly good for birdwatching.