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Routes
Gravel rides
United States
Colorado
Jefferson County

Lakewood

The best gravel rides around Lakewood

4.2

(30)

718

riders

42

rides

Gravel biking around Lakewood, Colorado, offers diverse terrain at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The region features rolling hills, expansive parks, and a network of trails. It is characterized by its position on the western edge of the Great Plains, with numerous gulches and lakes contributing to varied landscapes suitable for gravel cycling. This area provides a mix of paved and dirt trails, including sections along river greenbelts and through large parks.

Best gravel bike trails around Lakewood

  • The most popular gravel bike trail is View of the Arvada Blunn Reservoir – Fairmont Canal Trail loop from Jeffco Government Center, a 23.4 miles (37.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 52 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the Arvada Blunn Reservoir and follows a canal trail.
  • Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Platte River Trail bridge – Bridge over South Platte River loop from 10th & Osage, a moderate 37.9 miles (61.1 km) path. This trail explores sections along the South Platte River, providing a mix of urban and natural scenery.
  • Local gravel bikers also love the Mount Carbon Loop – Big Soda Lake loop from Morrison, a 19.9 miles (32.1 km) trail leading through Bear Creek Lake Park, often completed in about 2 hours 2 minutes.
  • Gravel biking around Lakewood is defined by rolling hills, expansive parks, and river greenbelts. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging routes.
  • The routes in Lakewood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 25 reviews. More than 600 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Lakewood's varied terrain.

Last updated: April 30, 2026

5.0

(4)

46

riders

#1.

View from Chatfield Dam – Start of the Colorado Trail loop from Columbine

37.2km

02:21

180m

180m

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Lakewood

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Tips from the Community

Alex
July 28, 2025, Waterton Canyon Recreation Area – Colorado Trail Trailhead

The "Waterton Canyon Recreation Area" trailhead sign here marks the Colorado Trail's Northern Terminus. It's a photo opportunity for thru-hikers continuing all the way south to Durango, a journey that stretches almost 500 miles.

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Pedaling along the Dakota Ridge service road, you’ll hit the famous Dinosaur Tracksite, where ancient footprints in Dakota sandstone are stained for visibility. Over 300 tracks left by iguanodonts and small theropods lie just off the path.

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Bear Creek Lake is a 40-acre artificial reservoir with plenty of outdoor options. You’ll find a boat launch, fishing pier, swimming beach, and rental boats during the warmer months. Located within Bear Creek Lake Park, the area is also known for its wildlife, with chances to spot deer, foxes, and plenty of birds.

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This is a nice overlook near Mt. Carbon, with expansive views of the Denver skyline, Bear Lake Park, and Mount Falcon Park in the background. Bear Creek Trail ends here, making it a great spot to pause, sit for a bit, and enjoy the views.

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This parking lot at the top of the dam has picnic tables and trash cans, but the biggest attraction is the view. From here you have a 360-degree view of the mountains, Downtown Denver, Castle Rock, and often a hot air balloon. If you are looking to add some speed into your ride, the Groove Subaru Team ride starts here every Saturday at 8:30am sharp. Pace is unusually 25-30mph and takes around 1.5hrs .

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Alex
May 15, 2025, Slocumb Cabin

The Slocumb Cabin is about 200 feet away from the Chatfield State Park Office, heading north-west down a paved trail. The cabin is the oldest standing structure in the Denver area. This 10x12-foot cabin was acquired by pioneer Thomas Slocumb in 1859. The views from here over Chatfield State Park and Chatfield Reservoir are stunning.

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The Chatfield Reservoir is a 1,423-acre lake in Chatfield State Park. There is a hiking path that runs alongside the water.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many gravel biking routes are available in Lakewood?

Lakewood offers a wide selection of gravel biking routes, with over 60 different tours available. These range from easy rides to more challenging routes, catering to various skill levels.

What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Lakewood?

Gravel biking in Lakewood features diverse terrain, from rolling hills and expansive parks to river greenbelts. You'll find a mix of paved and dirt trails, with some sections offering significant elevation changes, especially closer to the Rocky Mountain foothills. Parks like Bear Creek Lake Park and William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park provide varied surfaces and climbs.

Are there options for beginners or families looking for easy gravel rides?

Yes, Lakewood has options suitable for beginners and families. Many parks, such as Crown Hill Park and sections of Bear Creek Lake Park, offer less technical, multi-use paths with gentler gradients. The Bear Creek Greenbelt also provides peaceful, nature-filled rides along its multi-use paths.

Where can I find more challenging gravel biking routes near Lakewood?

For more challenging rides, consider routes that venture into areas with greater elevation. William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park, for instance, offers steep terrain and significant climbs. The View from Chatfield Dam – Mary Carter Greenway Trail loop from Littleton Downtown is a difficult route with substantial elevation gain, providing a good workout.

Are there any loop trails for gravel biking in Lakewood?

Yes, many gravel biking routes in Lakewood are designed as loops. A popular option is the Mount Carbon Loop – Big Soda Lake loop from Morrison, which takes you through Bear Creek Lake Park. Another is the View of the Arvada Blunn Reservoir – Fairmont Canal Trail loop from Jeffco Government Center, offering reservoir views.

Can I gravel bike in Bear Creek Lake Park?

Absolutely. Bear Creek Lake Park is an excellent destination for gravel biking. It features both paved and dirt trails, including the Mt. Carbon Loop, which offers a mix of surfaces. The Bear Creek Trail within the park has also received gravel path upgrades, connecting to the Bear Creek Greenbelt for extended riding.

What are some scenic attractions or landmarks I can see while gravel biking in Lakewood?

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by notable landmarks. You can ride past beautiful lakes like Chatfield Reservoir or Bear Creek Lake. Some trails provide stunning views of the Rocky Mountain foothills. Nearby, you can also find the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, which can be incorporated into longer rides for spectacular scenery.

Are there any routes that offer mountain views?

Yes, Lakewood's location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains means many routes offer breathtaking mountain views. William F. Hayden Green Mountain Park is particularly known for its panoramic vistas of Denver and the Front Range. The city's western edge provides a constant backdrop of the majestic Rockies.

What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Lakewood?

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in Lakewood, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the beautiful scenery of the Rocky Mountain foothills, and the well-maintained network of trails that offer options for all ability levels.

Are there gravel biking routes accessible by public transport in Lakewood?

While specific public transport connections to every trailhead can vary, Lakewood's urban and park-rich environment means many areas are reasonably accessible. For routes like the Platte River Trail bridge – Bridge over South Platte River loop from 10th & Osage, starting points near transit hubs like 10th & Osage make them more convenient for those using public transport.

Can I find gravel bike trails with cafes or amenities nearby?

Many gravel routes in Lakewood pass through or near urban areas and parks that have amenities. While specific cafes directly on every trail might be limited, routes that connect to city centers or larger parks often have facilities nearby for refreshments and breaks. Planning your route can help identify convenient stops.

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