The best gravel rides around Sheridan

Sheridan offers a wide array of gravel biking opportunities, with over 30 routes mapped on komoot. These trails cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging mountain routes, ensuring there's something for every gravel biker.

The terrain around Sheridan is incredibly diverse, ranging from smooth, packed dirt roads to more technical sections with rolling hills, punchy climbs, and even some rutted double-track. You'll traverse the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, wide-open prairies, and serene countryside, often encountering a mix of gravel, singletrack, and paved sections.

The prime season for gravel biking in Sheridan is generally from spring through fall, when the weather is most favorable. While some lower-elevation routes like the Iron Riders Loop might be accessible year-round, routes in the Bighorn Mountains can be snow-covered well into late spring or early summer. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially for higher-altitude trails.

Yes, Sheridan offers several easier gravel routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride. For instance, the Blackmer Lake – Blackmer Lake Trail loop from Colorado is an easy 20.2-mile path through open country. The Iron Riders Loop, east of Sheridan, also provides hundreds of miles of peaceful country riding on gravel roads.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Bighorn Mountains provide routes with significant climbs and descents. The Dead Swede courses, including options up to 100 miles, explore these mountains with epic vistas. The Wilderness Overlook Loop is another moderate to challenging 100% gravel route within the Bighorns, offering high mountain riding through forests and wildflower meadows.

Many gravel routes offer stunning views of the Bighorn Mountains and wide-open prairies. While riding, you might encounter highlights such as the Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve or the South Platte Reservoir. The Bighorn National Forest itself is rich with wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer, and features dramatic landscapes like Tongue River Canyon and Cloud Peak Wilderness.

Absolutely. The Lake views – South Platte Reservoir loop from Littleton - Mineral is a popular 32-mile route known for its scenic lake views and varied terrain. This moderate trail provides a beautiful backdrop for your ride.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families, particularly those that are flatter and less technical. The Prairie Dog to Pathway Loop is an easy to moderate option winding through bottomlands and plateaus. For a relaxed experience, consider the easier sections of the Iron Riders Loop, which offer peaceful country riding away from heavy traffic.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Sheridan, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 18 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from mountain foothills to open prairies, and the varied gravel surfaces that provide engaging rides for all levels. The stunning views of the Bighorn Mountains are also a common highlight.

Many gravel routes around Sheridan are designed as loops for convenience. For example, the Blackmer Lake loop from University of Denver is a moderate 26.9-mile path known for its rolling hills. Another option is the Sumac Hill Farm viewpoint loop from South Broadway & West Fair Avenue, an easy 31.2-mile ride.

While popular routes can see more traffic, many of Sheridan's gravel roads, especially those further into the Bighorn National Forest or the extensive network east of Sheridan, offer a sense of solitude. These areas are known for low traffic and abundant wildlife sightings, providing a peaceful riding experience.

For those looking for a challenging workout, routes within the Bighorn Mountains offer substantial elevation gain. The Dead Swede courses, for instance, are known for significant climbs and fast descents. The Bighorn National Forest also features fast, hard-packed dirt and gravel roads with challenging ascents and diverse terrain.