The best traffic-free bike rides in the Uncompahgre Plateau
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No traffic touring cycling routes in the Uncompahgre Plateau traverse a vast geological uplift in western Colorado, characterized by diverse landscapes and significant elevation changes. The region features a blend of remote backcountry, dramatic red rock canyons, and expansive mesas. Elevations range from approximately 4,600 feet near the Colorado River to nearly 10,000 feet at its summit, offering varied terrain for touring cyclists. This area provides a mix of ecosystems, from pinyon-juniper woodlands to ponderosa pine forests.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in the Uncompahgre Plateau
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Connected Lakes Loop, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) trail that takes 33 minutes to complete. This easy route offers flat terrain suitable for a relaxed ride.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Kokopelli's Trail, an easy 8.9 miles (14.3 km) path. This trail features varied terrain with some elevation gain, providing a scenic experience.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Jones Canyon Trail, a 12.0 miles (19.4 km) trail leading through canyon landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 58 minutes.
- Touring cycling in the Uncompahgre Plateau is defined by dramatic canyons, expansive mesas, and diverse forest ecosystems. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging paths with significant elevation changes.
- The routes in Uncompahgre Plateau are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from 16 reviews. More than 4000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Uncompahgre Plateau's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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riders
9.47km
00:34
20m
20m
Embark on the Connected Lakes Loop for an easy touring bicycle ride, covering 5.9 miles (9.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 65 feet (20 metres). This relaxed route takes around 33 minutes to complete, offering peaceful lakeside views and occasional glimpses of the Colorado River. As you pedal, you'll find yourself on multi-use paths that weave through both sunny and shaded sections, often accompanied by the soothing sounds of water. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, perfect for a leisurely outing.
Planning your visit to the Connected Lakes Loop is straightforward, as it's located within James M. Robb - Colorado River State Park. This easy route is well-suited for most touring cyclists, featuring well-maintained paths designed with accessibility in mind. You'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas throughout the park. Parking is generally available at several access points, making it easy to begin your ride. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully enjoy the scenery and park facilities.
Beyond the pleasant ride, the Connected Lakes Loop offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly ospreys and other waterfowl along the shorelines. The trail's location within James M. Robb - Colorado River State Park highlights its connection to the broader Colorado River ecosystem. This makes it a notable destination for those who appreciate both easy cycling and observing nature in a serene setting.
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riders
14.3km
01:22
130m
130m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along Kokopelli's Trail, a route that winds for 8.9 miles (14.3 km) through the striking landscapes of the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. You will experience the rugged beauty of the American Southwest, with views of towering mesas and iconic red rock formations defining the horizon. This accessible journey involves a gentle climb of 439 feet (134 metres) and typically takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. The trail itself offers a mix of dirt and gravel roads, immersing you in the unique, remote terrain of the Colorado Plateau. It's a perfect choice for a shorter ride where you can truly soak in the desert atmosphere. This easy route is ideal for those looking for a less demanding cycling experience. Accessing Kokopelli's Trail is straightforward, with convenient parking available right at the trailhead. While the full Kokopelli's Trail is known for its extensive planning requirements, this shorter section is much more manageable for a day trip. However, it is always wise to check local conditions before you head out, especially considering the rapid weather changes that can occur in desert environments. Being prepared ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride. This segment of Kokopelli's Trail offers a glimpse into the vast and ancient Colorado Plateau, a geological wonder known for its distinctive arid ecosystems. The trail provides an opportunity to connect with the natural environment of the American Southwest, showcasing its unique flora and fauna. It stands out as an accessible way to explore the renowned McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, making it a notable option for cyclists in the region. You can enjoy the solitude and expansive views that characterize this wild landscape.
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19.4km
01:58
300m
300m
The Jones Canyon Trail is a moderate 12.0-mile touring cycling route in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area, offering scenic canyon v
40.0km
03:21
420m
420m
Cycle 24.9 miles (40.0 km) on the moderate Utah via DS Road touring route, offering big desert scenery and views of the Colorado National Mo
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37
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27.6km
01:33
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Uncompahgre Plateau
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Traffic-free bike rides in the Uncompahgre Plateau
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Tips from the Community
This is a nice stretch of the 28-mile River Front Trail. As the name suggests, this trail follows the Colorado River, but it also passes through or bay a number of nice lakes, ponds, and parks, making it a great choice for a relaxing waterside ride.
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The lake boasts a nice trail that encircles it between the Colorado River. It derives its name from the Blue Heron birds that frequent this area due to the shallow shores in the area.
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Sieber Canyon is a unique trail where you ride above the canyon and on the walls are pictographs of all kinds including what look to be footprints. Overall, these sandstone formations provide scenic views of unique geology and mule routes.
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This state line crossing is pretty anti-climactic as there isn't a monument or a great view. This is more of a personal accomplishment. The last section of the road before you get to the state line is a gravel/dirt mix. If you are a confident road rider, 28mm tires are fine.
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This road is a popular corridor for people camping at the campgrounds located in the area and there are restrooms here. On the south end, there are very popular mountain biking trails.
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Although the dirt jumps are gone (like in the image) Brown Cycles still remains. The shop, owned and operated by Chris Brown, is arguably the best bike shop in Grand Junction. Their service is impeccable, selection of bikes and accessories are always top notch, and the customer service is outstanding. The shop is full of bicycle memorabilia and the owner is extremely passionate about bikes and ensuring others have a good time on bikes. They do offer rentals ranging from road bikes to mountain bikes and their used bike selection is quite unique. While this is a business, Chris makes everyone who stops by feel like family.
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Connected Lakes Trail offers a flat path that almost anyone can enjoy. It's nice to be surrounded by water and have tree covered trails to partially escape the sun.
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This pond is nestled into some trees and along a winding path. In the fall you can enjoy all the leaves changing colors, with the pond freezing in the winter. Be careful going around it as slick leaves can be deposited right on the trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in the Uncompahgre Plateau?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes in the Uncompahgre Plateau that focus on minimal traffic, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These include 13 easy routes, 6 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic touring cycling in the Uncompahgre Plateau?
The Uncompahgre Plateau experiences significant elevation changes, from 4,600 feet to nearly 10,000 feet. Lower elevation routes are generally accessible earlier and later in the season, while higher altitude trails are best enjoyed from late spring through early fall to avoid snow and colder temperatures. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, the Uncompahgre Plateau offers several easy, no-traffic routes suitable for families. A great option is the Connected Lakes Loop, which is just under 10 km (6 miles) with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
While many outdoor areas in the Uncompahgre Plateau are dog-friendly, specific regulations can vary by trail and land management agency (e.g., National Forest, BLM, State Parks). It's always best to check the specific rules for each route or area you plan to visit. Generally, dogs should be kept on a leash and all waste should be packed out.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Uncompahgre Plateau?
The Uncompahgre Plateau offers diverse terrain. While some routes are paved, many no-traffic options will feature gravel roads, especially on routes like the Divide Road (FR 402), which is traversable by regular passenger vehicles but offers a quiet, scenic journey. Expect varied surfaces and elevation changes, from gentle climbs to more challenging ascents.
What natural features and landmarks can I see along the routes?
The Uncompahgre Plateau is rich in natural beauty. You can expect dramatic red rock canyons, mesas, and diverse ecosystems. Notable attractions include the Independence Monument Overlook and Coke Ovens Overlook within the Colorado National Monument area. The region also features unique geological formations like Window Rock, offering panoramic views.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic touring cycling?
Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the Connected Lakes Loop is a shorter, easy loop. For a more challenging experience, some sections of the Rim Rock Drive within Colorado National Monument can be combined to form loops, though some segments may be unpaved.
Where can I find parking and trailheads for these routes?
Parking is generally available at designated trailheads and access points. For routes near the Colorado National Monument, visitor centers and overlooks often have parking. For routes like Kokopelli's Trail, you can find parking at the Kokopelli's Trailhead. Always check specific route details for the most convenient parking locations.
What wildlife might I encounter on the Uncompahgre Plateau?
The diverse ecosystems of the Uncompahgre Plateau support a wide array of wildlife. Cyclists might spot mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, and various bird species such as peregrine falcons and golden eagles. Black bears and mountain lions also inhabit the area, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and practice wildlife safety.
What is the general difficulty level of no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Uncompahgre Plateau?
The routes range from easy to difficult. You'll find 13 easy routes, 6 moderate, and 1 difficult route. Easy routes like the Kokopelli's Trail offer relatively flat terrain, while moderate options like Jones Canyon Trail involve more significant elevation changes. The most challenging routes can feature substantial climbs and descents, testing endurance.
Are there any amenities like cafes or accommodation near the no-traffic cycling routes?
The Uncompahgre Plateau is known for its remote beauty, so amenities are not always directly adjacent to every trailhead. Larger towns like Grand Junction, Fruita, Montrose, and Delta, which border the plateau, offer a range of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. It's advisable to plan your route and carry sufficient supplies, especially for longer rides in more secluded areas. For more information on the region, you can visit visitmontrose.com.
Most popular routes in the Uncompahgre Plateau
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