If you’re a cycling enthusiast, Colorado has a treasure trove of bike trails waiting to be explored. With over 300 days of sunshine, diverse terrain and magnificent vistas, the state offers some of the best cycling experiences in the US. Here are some of the top bike trails that you should add to your bucket list.
The Colorado Trail
The Colorado Trail is 500 miles of pure cycling bliss. Running from Denver to Durango, this trail is divided into 28 segments, each offering a unique experience. Expect to climb to high alpine meadows, cross streams, and ride through dense forests. The trail is a mix of singletrack, dirt roads, and paved surfaces, making it suitable for mountain bikers, gravel riders, and road cyclists.
The Kokopelli Trail
The Kokopelli Trail is another epic ride in Colorado. This 148-mile trail begins in Loma, near Grand Junction, and follows the Colorado River to Moab, Utah. You’ll cycle through red rock canyons, cross streams, and pass arches and mesas. The trail is ideal for intermediate and advanced riders, as there are several technical sections that require skill and endurance.
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a 28-mile paved road that climbs from Idaho Springs to the top of Mount Evans, the highest paved road in North America. The road offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and takes riders above the treeline. You’ll encounter hairpin turns, steep grades, and chilly temperatures, so make sure you’re prepared for the climb.
The Monarch Crest Trail
The Monarch Crest Trail is a 35-mile singletrack that starts at Monarch Pass and ends in Poncha Springs. This trail is one of the most popular in Colorado, thanks to its stunning views, variety of terrain, and challenging climbs. Expect to ride through forests, meadows, and high alpine ridges, and encounter steep switchbacks and rocky descents. The trail is for experienced mountain bikers only and should be attempted in good weather.
The Trail Ridge Road
The Trail Ridge Road is a 48-mile paved route that runs through Rocky Mountain National Park, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and wildlife. The road climbs to over 12,000 feet, making it the highest continuous paved road in the US. Along the way, you’ll encounter curves, steep grades, and challenging headwinds, but the views are worth it.
The 401 Trail
The 401 Trail is a 14.2-mile singletrack that loops around Gothic Mountain, near Crested Butte. The trail is renowned for its stunning wildflowers, aspen groves, and mountain views. Expect to climb steep switchbacks, ride across streams, and encounter technical terrain. The trail is for experienced mountain bikers only and should be ridden in good weather.
The Great Parks South Loop
The Great Parks South Loop is a 202-mile paved route that connects four national parks in southwestern Colorado: Mesa Verde, Hovenweep, Canyonlands, and Arches. The route takes riders through red-rock canyons, ancient ruins, and stunning scenery. The road is suitable for road cyclists and recreational riders.
The Telluride to Moab Trail
The Telluride to Moab Trail is a 215-mile backcountry route that takes riders through some of the wildest and most remote terrain in Colorado and Utah. Expect to ride across deserts, mesas, canyons, and mountains, and encounter technical terrain and steep climbs. The trail is for experienced backcountry riders only and should be ridden with a group.
Conclusion
There you have it, a list of some of the best bike trails in Colorado. Whether you’re a road cyclist, mountain biker, or gravel rider, there’s a trail for you. Just remember to bring appropriate gear, check the weather, and respect the environment. Happy riding!