The best cycling routes in San Juan County

San Juan County, Colorado, is characterized by dramatic mountain landscapes and high-altitude terrain. Cyclists should be prepared for significant elevation changes, challenging climbs, and rewarding descents through mountain passes and scenic river valleys. The region offers a rugged and awe-inspiring backdrop for touring cycling.

There are 11 touring cycling routes available in San Juan County. These routes cater to various ability levels, with 1 easy, 2 moderate, and 8 difficult options, ensuring there's a challenge for every cyclist.

Yes, for those seeking an easier ride, the Molas Lake loop is an excellent choice. This route is 4.5 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a more relaxed touring cycling experience.

San Juan County is home to several iconic mountain passes that offer breathtaking views and challenging rides. You can explore passes like Red Mountain Pass, Cinnamon Pass, and Blackhawk Pass. The Ophir Pass Road route also takes you through high mountain passes.

Yes, San Juan County offers several circular routes. For a moderate option, consider the Eureka loop. If you're looking for a more challenging gravel ride, the Black Hawk Pass via Colorado Trail & Hermosa Peak Road loop gravel is a popular choice.

The routes in San Juan County offer spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and mountain ranges. You'll encounter viewpoints like View on Grenadier Range, Maggie Gulch Overlook, and various vistas of Engineer Mountain, providing panoramic scenery of the rugged San Juan Mountains.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, San Juan County has several difficult routes. The Engineer Mountain and Pass Creek Trail Loop is a demanding option, as is the Hermosa Park Road, Elbert Creek Trail, & Hermosa Creek Trail loop, both featuring significant elevation gains.

Given the high-altitude and mountainous terrain, the best time for touring cycling in San Juan County is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This avoids heavy snow and ensures mountain passes are clear. Always check local weather and road conditions before heading out.

Yes, some routes offer a mix of surfaces. For instance, the Black Hawk Pass via Colorado Trail & Hermosa Peak Road loop gravel is specifically noted as a gravel route, providing a different kind of challenge for touring cyclists.

If you're looking for a moderate challenge, the Telluride/Mountain Village loop is a great option. It offers a balanced ride with some elevation gain, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without extreme difficulty.

Elevation gain varies significantly across routes. Easy routes like the Molas Lake loop have minimal gain (around 59m). Moderate routes like the Telluride/Mountain Village loop feature around 375m of ascent. Difficult routes, such as Black Hawk Pass, can involve over 1200m of climbing, so be prepared for substantial ascents.