The best gravel rides in El Paso County

El Paso County offers a diverse network of over 35 gravel bike trails. These routes provide a wide range of experiences, from moderate rides to challenging, long-distance adventures, catering to various skill levels.

Gravel biking in El Paso County features diverse terrain, ranging from arid plains to the foothills of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. You can expect significant elevation changes, including challenging climbs with inclines of 10-13% on routes like those found in the El Paso and Douglas County Gravel Route areas. Trails often pass through pine and aspen forests, offering a mix of scenic gravel roads and quiet paths.

Yes, El Paso County offers several challenging routes for experienced gravel bikers. For instance, the Garden of the Gods – New Sante Fe Regional Trail loop from Ute Valley Park is a difficult 62.3-mile trail with over 1,500 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the New Sante Fe Regional Trail – Popsicle Bridge loop from Austin Bluffs/Academy, a 43.6-mile difficult path with varied surfaces and elevation changes. The Gold Camp Road and Old Stage to Cripple Creek routes are also known for their challenging climbs and remote feel.

While many routes offer significant challenges, there are moderate options available. The New Santa Fe Regional Trail – New Sante Fe Regional Trail loop from Black Forest is a moderate 22.9-mile route with manageable elevation. The New Santa Fe Regional Trail itself, which follows a historic railway line, often has sections suitable for less experienced riders, offering scenic views without extreme difficulty.

El Paso County's gravel trails offer stunning views of iconic landmarks and natural features. Many routes provide vistas of Pikes Peak and the Front Range. You can also ride through or near the dramatic red rock formations of Garden of the Gods. Specific highlights include Three Graces rock formation and North Gateway Rock within Garden of the Gods Park. Some trails, like the Uintah street bridge – Helen Hunt Falls loop from Colorado Springs, pass by water features such as Helen Hunt Falls.

El Paso County (Colorado) experiences a continental climate, making it suitable for outdoor activities across diverse ecosystems. While summers can be warm, the region generally offers abundant sunshine and mild winters, especially on routes with clear and dry surfaces. It's advisable to check local weather conditions, particularly for higher elevations or during winter months, to ensure optimal riding conditions.

Yes, El Paso County is well-suited for long-distance gravel rides. The Garden of the Gods – New Sante Fe Regional Trail loop from Ute Valley Park is a significant 62.3-mile route. The New Santa Fe Regional Trail itself is a recurring highlight in many longer loops, providing extensive mileage. The Rampart Rager Loop and the Old Stage to Cripple Creek routes are also known for their substantial distances and challenging nature.

Many gravel bike routes in El Paso County start from various points, including parks and designated trailheads. For example, routes often begin from Ute Valley Park, Black Forest, Monument, or Gleneagle, which typically offer parking facilities. It's recommended to check the specific tour details on komoot for parking information at your chosen starting point.

Generally, permits are not required for gravel biking on most public trails and roads in El Paso County. However, it's always a good practice to check for any specific regulations or access requirements for particular parks or open spaces you plan to visit, especially if they are managed by different authorities.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in El Paso County are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Greenland Open Space – Palmer Lake loop from Black Forest and the Palmer Lake loop from Gleneagle. These loops offer varied scenery and a convenient riding experience.

The gravel biking routes in El Paso County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Over 400 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic views of the Front Range, the iconic red rock formations, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs.

Yes, some gravel routes in El Paso County offer views of lakes and reservoirs. For example, the Rampart Rager Loop passes Rampart Reservoir. You can also find routes near Lower Palmer Reservoir, Aspen Lake, and Crystal Creek Reservoir, providing picturesque water features along your ride.

While the region offers a remote feel on many trails, routes that start or pass through towns like Monument or Colorado Springs will have access to cafes and other amenities. It's a good idea to plan your route and check for services in nearby communities before heading out, especially on longer rides.