The best cycling routes around Fort Collins

Fort Collins offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 140 options available. These routes cater to all skill levels, including 97 easy, 33 moderate, and 11 difficult trails, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Fort Collins. The city's diverse landscapes, from river trails to mountain foothills, are particularly beautiful during these seasons. While winter biking is possible, some trails may be affected by snow or ice, so checking current conditions is advisable.

Yes, Fort Collins features several excellent circular touring cycling routes. A popular choice is the Spring Creek, Fossil Creek, and Power Trail Loop, which connects key paved pathways. Another great option is the Fort Collins loop via the Spring Creek Trail, leading through multiple parks and natural areas. For a longer challenge, consider the North Fort Collins loop via Poudre Trail.

Many touring cycling routes in Fort Collins offer access to stunning natural attractions. You can encounter landmarks like Horsetooth Rock, explore the scenic Fossil Creek, or even discover Horsetooth Falls. The region's natural beauty includes the Cache la Poudre River, Horsetooth Reservoir, and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Absolutely! Fort Collins is known for its family-friendly cycling options. The paved **Spring Creek Trail** and the Poudre River Trail are excellent choices, offering relatively flat terrain and wide paths suitable for casual rides with children. These trails wind through parks and natural areas, providing a pleasant and safe experience for all ages.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Fort Collins area delivers. The **Horsetooth Reservoir Loop** offers exhilarating ascents and descents with captivating views. Other demanding road cycling options include routes through **Rist Canyon**, **Carter Lake**, and **Buckhorn Canyon**, which feature significant climbs and remote, powerful river scenery. These routes provide a robust workout amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Yes, Fort Collins is rich with routes that follow rivers and water bodies. The Poudre River Trail is a prime example, offering scenic views along the Cache la Poudre River, Colorado's only nationally designated 'Wild and Scenic' River. Additionally, routes around **Horsetooth Reservoir** provide stunning vistas of the water and surrounding mountains.

The touring cycling routes in Fort Collins are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 120 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil river paths to the challenging mountain foothills, and the extensive network of well-maintained trails that cater to all abilities. The scenic beauty and variety of routes are frequently highlighted.

Beyond natural features, you can cycle to several unique landmarks. The Gardens on Spring Creek offers a beautiful botanical experience, and the The Keyhole is a distinctive natural monument. Many routes also pass through or near various parks and urban areas with interesting local sights.

Fort Collins holds a 'Platinum-Level Bicycle-Friendly Community' status, reflecting its strong commitment to cycling. The city boasts over 285 miles of trails, including dedicated bike lanes and paths. This extensive infrastructure, combined with a vibrant cycling culture and resources like bike rentals, makes it an exceptionally bike-friendly destination.

Yes, you can easily combine these two popular trails. The Poudre River and Spring Creek Trails Loop is an excellent option that connects both, allowing you to experience the best of both scenic waterways and urban greenways in a single ride.

Yes, Fort Collins offers several options for bike rentals. Local shops like Recycled Cycles or Pedego provide various bikes for rent, including e-bikes. For more information on bike rentals and other cycling resources, you can visit the official Fort Collins tourism website: visitftcollins.com/things-to-do/outdoors/biking/.