Little Bear Creek Road to Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass and Colorado 103 loop from Idaho Springs — Gravel

The historic town of Idaho Springs serves as an excellent starting point for this loop. You can find parking within the town, which offers amenities like shops and restaurants.

Yes, as of late 2023, a portion of the Clear Creek Trail out of Idaho Springs is under construction, requiring a shuttle to bypass. This closure is expected until spring 2027 and may necessitate route adjustments if your planned loop includes this section.

While the route itself is a road and gravel cycling loop, specific regulations for dogs may apply in certain areas, especially within the Arapaho National Forest. Generally, dogs are allowed on leash on most forest roads and trails, but it's always best to check local signage or the Arapaho National Forest website for the most current rules regarding pets.

Due to the high altitude and potential for snow and mud, the route is best ridden between late June and early October. This period offers cooler temperatures, making it a popular escape from summer heat at lower elevations.

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required for cycling on the public roads and trails that comprise this loop within the Arapaho National Forest. However, always be aware of any posted signs or specific regulations for certain areas you might pass through.

This loop is rated as difficult and requires very good fitness. It's considered a 'climber's paradise' with significant elevation gains, totaling around 3,450 to 5,000 feet over approximately 30-38 miles. Expect substantial uphill sections, some with average grades of 10.5% and pitches reaching 10-15%.

This mixed-surface route is ideally suited for a gravel bike. While some road bikes with appropriate, wider tires might manage, a gravel bike will provide a more comfortable and capable experience on the varied terrain, especially the packed gravel sections of Little Bear Creek Road (Gravel).

The loop features a combination of paved roads and well-maintained gravel sections. Colorado Highway 103, leading to Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass Summit, is fully paved. Little Bear Creek Road (Gravel) is mostly smooth, packed, and hard-packed gravel. While generally rideable, some broader area segments can be rockier or muddy, potentially requiring a hike-a-bike.

You'll be treated to magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains, including snow-capped peaks, wooded areas, and picturesque reservoirs. The route showcases aspen trees and wildflowers, with frequent panoramic vistas, especially from high points like Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass Summit, which offers views of the Continental Divide and Denver.

Key highlights include the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, the scenic Little Bear Creek Road (Gravel), and the Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass Summit, which was formerly known as Squaw Pass and renamed in honor of Owl Woman. The route also passes through sections of Witter Gulch Road.

The tour data indicates an estimated duration of approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes (11,986 seconds). However, given its 'difficult' rating and significant elevation gain, cyclists should plan for a longer ride, often involving over 5 hours of riding, depending on fitness levels and stops for scenery.