The best road cycling routes in Larimer County

Larimer County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 230 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to challenging climbs.

Road cycling in Larimer County features diverse terrain, including undulating foothills, pine-studded canyons, and river valleys. You'll find everything from flat, paved paths through ranchland to challenging climbs with significant elevation changes, offering a varied experience for all fitness levels.

Yes, Larimer County has numerous easy and family-friendly road cycling routes. For instance, the Loveland Recreation Trail Loop offers a scenic 33.5 km ride with views of Boyd Lake and the Big Thompson River. Another great option is the Fossil Creek and Long View Trail Loop, which is an easy 23.4 km ride.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Larimer County provides routes with substantial elevation gains. The Trail River Road to Alpine Visitor Center is a demanding 82.9 km route with over 1800 meters of ascent through mountain forests and alpine tundra. Another difficult option is the Rist Canyon and Masonville loop via Bingham Hill, a 79.3 km path showcasing scenic beauty through canyons and rolling hills.

Yes, the area around Horsetooth Reservoir offers scenic loop routes. The Bingham Hill and the Horsetooth Reservoir Dams loop is a popular 27.4 km trail leading through the foothills with excellent views of the reservoir. The broader Lakes Loop also provides rolling hills with views of mountains, red rock formations, and lakes, passing Carter Lake and Horsetooth Reservoir.

Absolutely. The Cache la Poudre River, Colorado's only nationally designated Wild and Scenic River, features prominently in several routes. The Poudre River Trail is a moderate 25.2-mile paved route known for scenic views and wildlife, connecting to natural areas like Lions Open Space. The Poudre and Spring Creek Trails Loop also offers a 47.5 km touring experience through parks and natural areas along the river.

Larimer County's routes often pass by significant natural features and attractions. You might cycle near Rocky Mountain National Park, with its majestic mountain forests and alpine tundra, or along the famous Trail Ridge Road. Other highlights include the scenic Horsetooth Rock and the picturesque Twin Sisters Peak.

The road cycling routes in Larimer County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging mountain climbs to peaceful river trails, and the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Yes, Larimer County offers several long-distance road cycling routes. The Trail River Road to Alpine Visitor Center is an 82.9 km route, and the Carter Lake loop spans 87.6 km, providing extensive riding opportunities for those looking for longer distances.

The best time for road biking in Larimer County is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October), when the weather is mild and mountain passes are clear of snow. However, lower elevation routes can be enjoyed earlier and later in the season, and some trails might be accessible year-round depending on conditions.

Yes, routes north of Fort Collins, such as those utilizing North Taft Hill Road and Owl Canyon Road, provide constant views of the Front Range as they traverse plains and ranchland. The Horsetooth Reservoir area also offers glimpses of the city and plains alongside mountain views.

Larimer County is recognized as a bike-friendly community. For more information on local biking resources and initiatives, you can visit the official Larimer County website: larimer.gov/biking.