US 36 Bikeway and Little Dry Creek Trail Loop

This loop is generally rated as moderate. While the Little Dry Creek Trail is mostly easy and relatively flat, the US 36 Bikeway features rolling hills and some significant climbs, particularly heading east from the Boulder end. Cyclists can achieve serious speed on some downhill sections, adding to the varied challenge.

The entire loop is paved, primarily with concrete, and is generally in great condition. The US 36 Bikeway has rolling hills, including some solid uphills and downhills. The Little Dry Creek Trail is flatter but has many twists and turns, occasionally dipping into a concrete channel and featuring some on-street portions through neighborhoods.

Yes, the route features several notable points. You'll encounter The Wall - McCaslin Boulevard Climb, a significant ascent on the US 36 Bikeway. Other sections include the 36 bike path itself and the Marshall Road section. The Little Dry Creek Trail also passes through parks like Little Dry Creek Park and Michael Northey Park, offering better views in its northwestern stretch.

For a racebike, the estimated duration for this 70 km (43.5 mile) loop is around 3 hours and 40 minutes, depending on your pace and stops.

The US 36 Bikeway offers multiple access points at regional park-n-ride bus stations, which often have parking available. For the Little Dry Creek Trail, you can look for parking near parks it traverses, such as Little Dry Creek Park or Michael Northey Park, or in neighborhoods where the trail runs alongside streets.

Yes, the Little Dry Creek Trail notably connects to the Clear Creek Trail. From there, you can link up with the South Platte River Trail, which allows for extended rides, including a return to downtown Denver. The route also passes through sections of the US 36 Bikeway, Little Dry Creek Trail, Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail, and B360.

While specific dog policies for every segment aren't detailed, multi-use trails in this region generally allow leashed dogs. However, given the nature of a racebike loop, it's best to check local regulations for each park or city section you'll be passing through, especially for the on-street portions of the Little Dry Creek Trail.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures. Summer can be hot, especially on the exposed sections of the US 36 Bikeway. Winter cycling is possible, but be aware of potential snow and ice, particularly in shaded areas or after storms.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the US 36 Bikeway or the Little Dry Creek Trail. These are public multi-use paths.

Some cyclists find parts of the Little Dry Creek Trail 'only OK for cycling' due to frequent surface street crossings. Additionally, sections of the Little Dry Creek Trail can be industrial or run behind backyards. The US 36 Bikeway, while offering mountain views, parallels the US 36 freeway, so expect some traffic noise.

The loop offers a diverse range of scenery. The US 36 Bikeway provides mountain views and traverses open spaces and parks, though it runs alongside the freeway. The Little Dry Creek Trail is tree-lined and meanders through both busy neighborhoods and open spaces, with the northwestern stretch offering better views as it passes through several parks.