The best traffic-free bike rides in Roxborough State Park

There are 5 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes detailed in this guide for Roxborough State Park and its surrounding areas. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate rides, allowing you to experience the stunning red rock formations and diverse landscapes without vehicle interference.

Yes, there are easy routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. For instance, the View from Chatfield Dam – South Platte River loop from Chatfield State Park is an easy 15.5 km route, and the View from Chatfield Dam – Wetlands View loop from Chatfield State Park offers a pleasant 17.6 km ride, both providing a car-free experience.

The routes in this guide generally feature rolling hills, with elevation changes ranging from 69 meters to over 440 meters on some of the longer loops. While direct cycling on park hiking trails is restricted, the surrounding area offers varied terrain, from plains and grasslands to views of the Front Range foothills, providing a good mix for road cyclists.

Spring and fall are generally the best times for road cycling in Roxborough State Park, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to ride in the mornings to avoid the heat. Winter cycling is possible, but be mindful of snow and ice conditions, especially on shaded sections.

While direct cycling within the park's core is limited to specific access roads, the routes in the vicinity offer stunning views of the dramatic red sandstone formations that Roxborough State Park is famous for. You can also visit highlights like Lyons Overlook for panoramic vistas, or explore the area around Carpenter Peak, the highest point in the park, which offers spectacular 360-degree views.

Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the View from Chatfield Dam – Chatfield Reservoir loop from Sedalia covers nearly 65 km with over 440 meters of elevation gain, offering a moderate difficulty level. The Wetlands View – Chatfield Reservoir loop from Sterling Ranch is another moderate option at 56.8 km.

The komoot community rates the cycling experience in this area with an average score of 3.0 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the opportunity to ride on dedicated paths away from vehicle traffic, the stunning geological formations, and the diverse wildlife sightings, making for a peaceful and scenic ride.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular loops, designed to bring you back to your starting point. This includes options like the View from Chatfield Dam – South Platte Reservoir loop from Chatfield State Park, which offers a 52.7 km car-free experience.

While the routes themselves are traffic-free, you can find facilities in the vicinity. The Roxborough State Park Visitor Center offers exhibits and information, and restrooms are available within Chatfield State Park, which many of these routes traverse or pass near.

While Roxborough State Park itself is primarily accessed by car, some routes in the broader area, particularly those connected to the Platte River and C-470 trails, might be accessible via public transport connections to Denver's wider trail network. However, direct public transport to the immediate park entrance for cycling is limited.

Access to Roxborough State Park requires a valid Colorado State Parks pass or daily entrance fee. While the routes in this guide are primarily on surrounding traffic-free paths, if your route takes you into the park's entrance road or you plan to visit the visitor center, these fees will apply. Always check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the latest fee information.