Georgetown to Loveland Pass

You can typically find parking in the historic town of Georgetown, which serves as the starting point for this route. Look for public parking areas within the town before heading out on your ride.

This route is rated as difficult and requires very good fitness. It features significant sustained climbing, especially in the latter half. The total elevation gain is over 3,600 feet, with the final four miles to the summit averaging a 5.7% grade and reaching 9.1% in its steepest quarter-mile.

The ride starts with about 12 miles on a dedicated bike path parallel to I-70, featuring undulating rollers and an average grade of 3.5%. As you approach Loveland Basin, the route transitions to Highway 6, leading to the main climb. The final four miles to the summit are the steepest, averaging 5.7% with excellent road surface. You'll experience a dramatic shift from forested canyons to windswept alpine tundra.

You'll start in the historic 19th-century gold rush town of Georgetown. The journey offers spectacular views as you ascend, culminating in panoramic vistas from the summit of Loveland Pass at 11,990 feet. You'll also pass landmarks like the historic Georgetown railroad.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from late spring through early fall, generally June to September, when the pass is clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Always check the weather forecast and road conditions for Loveland Pass before you go, as alpine weather can change rapidly.

No, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required for road cycling this route through Arapaho National Forest. However, always respect Leave No Trace principles and any posted regulations for the area.

While the route itself is a road cycling path, dogs are generally allowed on leash in Arapaho National Forest. If you plan to stop at any specific attractions or businesses in Georgetown, check their individual pet policies. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash, especially given the potential for wildlife encounters.

As you cycle through Arapaho National Forest, you might encounter various wildlife, including deer. It's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially in more remote sections, and give animals their space.

Yes, sections of this route intersect with or run alongside several other paths. You'll find it shares portions with trails such as the CDT - Colorado Section, ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 4, Clear Creek Greenway, and various segments of the Bakerville-Loveland Trail and Argentine Central Railroad Grade Trail.

A significant portion of this route features a dedicated bike path, offering a safer and more serene experience away from heavy vehicle traffic, which is a notable advantage. It's also one of the few places where cyclists can cross the Continental Divide at the summit of Loveland Pass, providing an epic high-alpine cycling experience.

The estimated duration for this challenging ride is around 3 hours and 23 minutes for the ascent. However, actual times can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the number of stops you make, and weather conditions.

Given the significant elevation gain and alpine environment, it's crucial to bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, and layers of clothing suitable for varying temperatures. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a helmet are essential. A bike repair kit and a fully charged phone are also highly recommended, especially since some sections are remote.