The best cycling routes in Denver County

Denver County offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, from urban pathways and riverine trails along the South Platte River and Cherry Creek to routes with views of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. You can find options for various ability levels, including easy park loops and longer routes with moderate elevation changes. In total, there are over 160 touring cycling routes available.

Yes, Denver County has over 100 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Cherry Creek Trail – Washington Park Flower Gardens loop from University of Denver, which is 10.6 miles (17.1 km) long and takes you through Washington Park, known for its scenic loop, flower gardens, and lakes. The region's extensive network of paved pathways also makes many trails accessible for families.

Many routes offer access to significant landmarks and natural features. For instance, the South Platte River Trail connects to Confluence Park, where the South Platte River and Cherry Creek meet. You can also find routes that pass by Union Station Denver or offer views of the Denver skyline from places like Sloan's Lake west shore. The Cherry Creek Trail leads to Cherry Creek State Park and Reservoir, offering extensive recreational opportunities.

While many routes in Denver County are relatively flat, some offer more challenging elevation gains. For a more demanding ride, consider the Tucker Gulch – Clear Creek Trail loop from Union Station Light Rail Plaza. This difficult route covers 43.7 miles (70.3 km) and features over 3,000 feet (921 meters) of elevation gain, taking you towards the foothills and offering a more strenuous experience.

Denver County is generally favorable for touring cycling for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or evenings are ideal. While winter can bring snow, many paved trails are cleared, allowing for year-round cycling, though conditions can vary. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Denver County's cycling infrastructure is well-integrated with urban areas, making many trailheads accessible. Major trails like the South Platte River Trail and Cherry Creek Trail often have access points near public transport stops. For those driving, various parks and trailheads, such as those near Confluence Park or Cherry Creek State Park, offer parking facilities. For specific routes, checking the komoot tour details will provide information on starting points and potential access.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Denver County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. An example is the Cherry Creek State Park loop — Aurora, a moderate 16.3 miles (26.3 km) path that circles Cherry Creek State Park. Another option is the Smoky Hill Group Picnic Site – Cottonwood Creek Wetlands loop from Louisiana & Pearl, which is 28.2 miles (45.4 km) long.

The touring cycling routes in Denver County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 2,900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the well-maintained paved paths, scenic river views, and the ability to transition from urban environments to natural settings.

Yes, Denver County offers several longer routes for those seeking extended rides. For example, the Bear Creek Lake – Bridge over South Platte River loop from Alameda covers 37.8 miles (60.8 km). Another substantial option is the Clear Creek Trail – Clear Creek Trail Bridge loop from Ball Arena / Elitch Gardens, which is 38.6 miles (62.1 km) long, providing ample distance for a longer touring experience.

Absolutely. The Platte River Trail, middle section, is a prime example, following the South Platte River and offering scenic views. Similarly, the Cherry Creek Trail follows Cherry Creek, providing a pleasant ride often sunken below Speer Boulevard, separating cyclists from city traffic. These riverine trails are central to Denver's cycling network.

Yes, as you venture westward on some routes, the terrain gradually shifts, offering panoramic views of the Rockies. While Denver County is on the eastern edge of the High Plains, its proximity to the Front Range means that trails like those leading towards Golden via the Clear Creek Trail, or routes around Green Mountain (just outside the county but visible), provide dramatic backdrops of the mountains.

You can expect a mix of terrain. Most routes feature extensive paved pathways and protected bike lanes, ideal for touring bikes. Some trails, like sections of the High Line Canal Trail, may include dirt paths. The landscape transitions from urban scenery and expansive parks to riverine environments and, further west, offers views towards the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.