Valente Lake – South Platte River Trail loop from Original Thornton & 88th
Valente Lake – South Platte River Trail loop from Original Thornton & 88th
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Valente Lake – South Platte River Trail loop from Original Thornton & 88th
02:28
48.1km
250m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 5, 2026
Tips
The surface along some of this route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 14.5 km for 135 m
After 23.9 km for 930 m
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
9.23 km
Full Moon Over Webster Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
9.61 km
Webster Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
25.2 km
South Platte River Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Showing Translation
Tip by
25.6 km
Fishing Is Fun Pond
Lake
27.6 km
South Platte River Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
29.4 km
Riverdale Regional Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
30.3 km
South Platte River Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
34.1 km
Valente Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
36.1 km
South Platte River Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
48.1 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
37.9 km
6.29 km
1.84 km
1.43 km
389 m
180 m
104 m
Surfaces
30.8 km
15.8 km
1.41 km
168 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,650 m)
Lowest point (1,520 m)
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Weather
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Tuesday 16 June
34°C
11°C
-- %
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a road cycling route that combines smooth pavement with varied scenery, the Valente Lake – South Platte River Trail loop from Original Thornton & 88th is a solid choice. This moderate 29.9 miles (48.1 km) route, with a gentle 829 feet (253 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 28 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed morning ride or an afternoon spin for cyclists of most fitness levels.
What to expect on Valente Lake – South Platte River Trail loop from Original Thornton & 88th
This loop offers a journey through changing landscapes, starting from the urban edge and quickly transitioning to natural settings. You'll enjoy mostly flat, paved surfaces, often described as "smooth as butter," perfect for road bikes. The route takes you around the tranquil Valente Lake within the Elaine T. Valente Open Space, a highlight for its natural beauty and birdwatching opportunities, especially for wintering waterfowl. While much of the South Platte River Trail (SPRT) is flat, expect occasional short, steep inclines, such as under bridges, adding a touch of challenge without being overly demanding. As you head north on the SPRT, you'll find more natural scenery, with distant views of the Rocky Mountains, before some sections might become more urbanized further south.
Planning your visit
Starting from the Original Thornton & 88th area, this loop is part of the extensive South Platte River Trail system, known for being well-maintained with good signage. The SPRT is a popular multi-use path, so be mindful of other trail users, including pedestrians and other cyclists. While specific parking details for this exact starting point aren't detailed, the area is generally accessible. This route is suitable for most of the year, offering a pleasant ride through its diverse environments.
Trail details
- Distance: 29.9 miles (48.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 829 feet (253 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 28 minutes
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