The best traffic-free bike rides in San Juan National Forest

The Falls Creek Road route offers a pleasant, easy road cycling experience in La Plata County, perfect for a quick spin. You'll pedal through the local landscape, enjoying the natural beauty of the area without any demanding climbs. This route is ideal for those seeking a relaxed pace and a chance to take in the surroundings, making it a great option for a casual outing or a warm-up ride.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking generally available near the start point. Given its easy difficulty and short duration, it's suitable for most times of day, but always check the weather forecast before you head out. Bring water, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated on this 9.0-mile (14.6 km) journey with 434 feet (132 metres) of elevation gain, which typically takes about 38 minutes.

This route stands out as a beginner-friendly option for road cycling in the region, offering a low-commitment way to enjoy the outdoors. Unlike some of the more challenging, high-alpine routes, Falls Creek Road provides a gentle introduction to cycling in the area, making it accessible for a wide range of riders looking for a quick, enjoyable ride.

The Animas River Trail offers a delightful paved journey alongside the scenic Animas River in Durango, Colorado. You'll glide past lush city parks, under bridges, and might even spot deer or kayakers enjoying the water. The trail is primarily smooth asphalt and concrete, though some older sections can be a bit bumpy, adding a touch of real-world charm to this otherwise easy ride.

This 16.2-mile (26.2 km) route, with a minimal 314 feet (96 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes to cycle. With numerous access points and parking available at various parks, it's easy to hop on and off. You'll also find convenient amenities like restrooms and water at many of the parks along the way.

Beyond the natural beauty, the trail is a cultural corridor, featuring urban art, sculptures, and interpretive signs detailing Durango's rich history. It runs alongside the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, offering unique opportunities to see and hear the old locomotives. The trail also provides direct access to attractions like the Powerhouse Science Museum and downtown Durango, making it a central artery for exploration.

The Oxbow Park and Preserve – Animas River and Rotary Park loop offers a delightful and accessible road cycling experience in Durango. As you pedal, you'll enjoy continuous, picturesque views of the Animas River, often spotting kayakers and inner-tube floaters during warmer months. The route is predominantly paved with concrete and asphalt, making for a smooth ride, though some older sections might have minor bumps from tree roots. You'll pass through various parks, including Oxbow Park with its beach area and Rotary Park, which provides convenient amenities.

This easy 10.7-mile (17.2 km) loop, with a gentle 228 feet (70 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 55 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for casual cyclists and families, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The Animas River Trail, which forms the core of this route, is a vital transportation artery connecting parks, downtown Durango, and other community amenities. You might even catch a glimpse of the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad running alongside the path.

What makes this route particularly notable is its integration into Durango's extensive trail network, allowing you to navigate the city without crossing a single street thanks to numerous bridges and underpasses. The trail also features interpretive signs providing insights into Durango's rich history. While cycling is generally not permitted within the natural surface trails of Oxbow Preserve itself, this loop cleverly utilizes the surrounding paved system to offer a comprehensive and enjoyable ride.