The best road cycling routes around Avon

Avon offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from scenic river paths along the Eagle River to challenging mountain climbs. You'll find routes that traverse the extensive Vail Valley, offering varied elevation profiles suitable for different cycling abilities. The region is known for its stunning Rocky Mountain views and connections to historic landmarks.

Yes, Avon provides several easy road cycling options perfect for beginners or families. These routes typically feature well-paved surfaces and offer up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain, ensuring a comfortable ride. The Route de Sully (bikes only) – Fontainebleau loop from Plaine de la Chambre is an example of an easy route, and the paved Eagle Valley Trail also offers accessible sections.

Road cycling routes around Avon are rich with scenic highlights. You can enjoy expansive Rocky Mountain views, picturesque stretches along the Eagle River, and pass by the historic Red Cliff Bridge on routes like the Avon to Red Cliff path. For natural attractions, consider exploring areas near Piat Pond or the Gros Fouteau Road. The region also offers access to the Beaver Creek Resort area, providing additional scenic backdrops.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Avon is a fantastic base for long-distance road cycling. The paved Eagle Valley Trail extends for 58.6 miles, connecting various towns with scenic river views. More challenging options include the 'Triple Bypass' event route, which covers 120 miles with over 10,000 feet of elevation gain, traversing multiple mountain passes. Routes exceeding 3,000 feet of elevation gain are available for those with very good fitness.

The road cycling routes in Avon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 500 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning Rocky Mountain vistas, the variety of terrain from river paths to challenging climbs, and the well-maintained trails. The mix of scenic beauty and diverse difficulty levels makes it a favorite among many.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Avon are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For instance, the Barbeau Hill – Pretty road along the Seine loop from Vulaines-sur-Seine - Samoreau is a popular 35-mile circular route along the Seine River. Another option is the Electrical manufacturing – Beautiful view over the Seine loop from Vulaines-sur-Seine - Samoreau, which offers expansive views over the Seine on a 20.2-mile loop.

The best time for road cycling in Avon is typically from late spring through early fall, when the weather is mild and the mountain passes are clear of snow. Summer offers vibrant natural scenery and comfortable temperatures. While winter cycling is possible on some cleared paths, many higher elevation routes may be inaccessible due to snow.

Yes, the Eagle River is a prominent feature in many road cycling routes around Avon. The 58.6-mile paved Eagle Valley Trail, in particular, offers continuous picturesque views of the Eagle River as it winds through the valley, connecting various communities.

While many routes are well-known, exploring the network of trails connecting to the broader Vail Valley can reveal quieter sections. Consider routes that venture into the forested areas or those that connect to smaller towns beyond the main resort areas for a more secluded experience. The region's commitment to expanding its trail network means there are always new paths to discover.

Elevation gain varies significantly across Avon's road cycling routes. Easy rides typically feature up to 1,000 feet of gain, while moderate routes can involve up to 3,000 feet. For advanced cyclists, there are challenging routes exceeding 3,000 feet of elevation gain, such as sections of the 'Triple Bypass' which includes over 10,000 feet of climbing across multiple mountain passes.

Yes, several routes offer glimpses of history and unique natural formations. The Avon to Red Cliff route passes by the historic Red Cliff Bridge, adding a cultural element to your ride. Additionally, exploring areas around Avon might lead you to natural features like the Béorlots Sand Dune or various caves such as Béatrix Cave, though these might require a short detour from the main road cycling paths.

There are nearly 400 road cycling routes available around Avon, offering a wide array of choices for cyclists of all levels. This includes a significant number of moderate routes (around 300) and a good selection of easy options (over 90), ensuring there's always a new adventure to embark on.