The best road cycling routes in Lake County

As unique as it is beautiful the Red Cliff Bridge is Colorado's only cantilevered steel arch bridge. Originally constructed in 1940, the bridge was heavily restored in 2004. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985

Climbing Independence Pass eastwards from Aspen is a bucket-list journey to the Continental Divide, reaching an extreme altitude of 12,095ft, making it one of North America's highest paved passes. Prepare for a very long 18-20 mile and challenging climb gaining over 4000ft; while the average grade is moderate at 4-5%, expect long, sustained climbing sections particularly above the tree line, likely averaging 6-8% in parts, amplified significantly by the thin air. Along the route you'll see the stunning transition through beautiful aspen groves to breathtaking alpine tundra vistas. Be aware that services are non-existent between Aspen and Twin Lakes so be self-sufficient and check the road status before attempting the climb.

Matchless Mine is actually owned and operated by the Leadville National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum. You can pay to take self-guided tours and learn more about the mining history of Leadville and other small Colorado mountain towns. You can see some of the mining infrastructure from the Mineral Belt Trail, and there are many other mining ruins along the eastern part of the Mineral Belt Trail loop.

Leadville, Colorado is the highest town in the US at 10,152 feet above sea-level. This small former mining town has recently begun to transform into a recreational hub in large part due to the Leadville 100, a 100-mile ultramarathon, and its proximity to the two tallest mountains in the state: Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. Harrison Ave is the main street of Leadville. Nestled in the colorful, historic buildings that reflect its rich history as one of the most prosperous silver mining town in the state are coffee shops, boutiques, gear stores, antique and thrift stores, and the famous Melenzana Store, where (by appointment only) you can purchase some of Colorado's most iconic fleeces.

Clinton Gulch Reservoir sits right on the edge of Hwy 91, sandwiched between the road and the foothills of Clinton Creek Basin. 13,000 foot mountains tower in the background and bounce off reflections in the water. There is a walking path that actually journeys around the water's edge that you can access from the Gold Hill parking lot, but the views are equally as great from the roadside.

There are actually a couple Black Lakes here just off the side of the paved bike path. A bit down the south side of the pass is the main parking area and facilities for Vail Pass.

This iconic bridge is located in Red Cliff, Colorado and is also known as the Red Cliff Bridge or Eagle River Bridge. Spanning the Eagle River, the Red Cliff Bridge is a distinctive historic landmark in the town.

Minturn is situated at an elevation of 10,250 feet and nestled between the ski resorts of Vail and Beaver Creek. The town features a main street adorned with unique shops and restaurants. Additionally, it offers world-class outdoor recreation activities such as fly-fishing, hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and kayaking.