The best cycling routes around Monument

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Monument, Colorado, catering to various skill levels. These include 5 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 8 difficult routes, offering diverse experiences from gentle loops to more challenging explorations.

Touring cycling in Monument features a mix of crushed stone and gravel trails, alongside paved sections. You can expect varied terrain, from generally straight and level portions on trails like the New Santa Fe Regional Trail to gravel climbs with grades between 2-7% in areas like Mount Herman, offering beautiful views through pine trees and past rock formations.

The touring cycling routes in Monument are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 4 reviews. Cyclists often praise the expansive views of Pikes Peak, the diverse landscapes, and the well-maintained trails that offer options for all abilities.

Yes, Monument offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Fox Run Loop Trail, an easy 3.3-mile path that provides scenic views of Pikes Peak and Aspen Lake, often on mostly paved surfaces. There are 5 easy routes in total to choose from.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Monument area offers routes with significant climbs and varied terrain. The Mount Herman area, for instance, provides gravel climbs with beautiful views and unmaintained forest roads. Overall, there are 8 difficult routes available for those looking for a more strenuous touring cycling experience.

While cycling in Monument, you'll be treated to expansive views of the Front Range and the majestic Pikes Peak. You can also encounter unique rock formations like Monument Rock, serene lakes such as Lower Palmer Reservoir and Aspen Lake, and woodlands of pine and scrub oak. Some routes, like sections of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail, even pass through an easement of the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Absolutely! The Monument area features several beautiful lakes that you can cycle near. The Fox Run Loop Trail offers scenic views of Aspen Lake. Additionally, Palmer Lake is a picturesque destination with an easy 0.8-mile trail loop directly around it, and you can find other lakes like Lower Palmer Reservoir and Water's Edge Park Pond in the vicinity.

The New Santa Fe Regional Trail is a prominent feature for touring cyclists in Monument. This 18-mile rail-trail offers a scenic journey on a crushed stone and gravel surface, connecting Palmer Lake to northern Colorado Springs and passing directly through Monument. It's generally straight and level for significant portions, making it accessible, though some sections may have loose rock and gravel. You can enjoy views of Pikes Peak, mountains, geological formations, and wildlife. For more information, you can visit the Visit Colorado Springs website.

Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes available. For example, the New Sante Fe Regional Trail – New Santa Fe Regional Trail loop from Gleneagle is a popular 24.7-mile option. Another great choice is the Fox Run Loop Trail, which is an easy 3.3-mile loop offering scenic views.

Parking is generally available at trailheads and parks that serve the touring cycling routes in Monument. For instance, Fox Run Regional Park, which hosts the Fox Run Loop Trail, typically has dedicated parking facilities. Similarly, access points for the New Santa Fe Regional Trail, including those near Palmer Lake, usually offer parking for cyclists.

A highly recommended moderate route that combines different surfaces is the New Santa Fe and Cottonwood Creek Trails. This 30.1-mile route offers a diverse cycling experience by blending gravel sections of the New Santa Fe Trail with paved portions of the Cottonwood Creek Trail.

Yes, several routes connect Monument to nearby scenic areas. The New Santa Fe Regional Trail itself begins in Palmer Lake and passes through Monument. You can also explore routes like the Palmer Lake loop from Gleneagle, which is a moderate 18.9-mile ride, or the Greenland Open Space – Palmer Lake loop from Pioneer Landscape Center, a 24-mile moderate option.