The best traffic-free bike rides in Lincoln Mountain Open Space

There are 3 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Lincoln Mountain Open Space, offering a range of experiences for cyclists. These include easy and moderate options.

The routes feature diverse natural surface trails. You'll encounter flat caprock footing in lower sections, transitioning to sharper rhyolite rocks on higher parts. The landscape varies from forested slopes with gambel oak and ponderosa pine to craggy terrain and open, rolling prairie. The Palmer Divide Ranch Trail, for example, offers a moderate ride with varied terrain.

Yes, there is an easy touring cycling route suitable for families. The Kipps and Greenland Trail Loop is a great option, covering approximately 13.35 km (8.3 miles) with a moderate elevation gain, making it accessible for a wider range of cyclists.

From atop Lincoln Mountain, cyclists can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Pikes Peak, the Front Range, the Palmer Divide, and the eastern plains of Douglas County. The Palmer Divide Ranch Trail also offers rocky perches with excellent views of the plains and distant mesas.

Yes, the trail system includes keyhole loop trails. The Kipps and Greenland Trail Loop is a notable example, providing a circular route for touring cyclists. The Lincoln Mountain Trail (4.2 miles) and the Palmer Divide Ranch Trail (4.5 miles) can also be combined for a longer 8.3-mile loop outing.

While specific parking locations are not detailed, Lincoln Mountain Open Space is generally accessible, and parking is typically available at designated trailheads. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current parking information.

Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the trails are adorned with wildflowers such as larkspur and foothills paintbrush. The varied terrain and natural beauty make it enjoyable throughout the warmer months, but always check weather conditions before heading out.

The riparian ecology along West Cherry Creek serves as an inviting habitat for various wildlife. While specific species are not listed, you might encounter local fauna typical of foothills grassland and mixed shrubland environments, especially near water sources.

Lincoln Mountain Open Space is a natural area, so amenities like cafes are not directly within the open space. However, nearby towns such as Franktown, Larkspur, and Castle Rock offer various services, including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options for visitors.

The routes vary in length. For instance, the Palmer Divide Ranch Trail is approximately 13 km (8.1 miles), while the Kipps and Greenland Trail Loop is about 13.35 km (8.3 miles). There's also a longer option, the Greenland Open Space – Palmer Lake loop, which extends to nearly 39 km (24 miles).

These routes are designated 'no traffic' because they primarily utilize natural surface trails within the Lincoln Mountain Open Space, away from public roads and vehicular traffic. This provides a peaceful and immersive cycling experience focused on the natural environment.

The routes range from easy to moderate difficulty. You'll find options like the Kipps and Greenland Trail Loop which is considered easy, while the Palmer Divide Ranch Trail and the Greenland Open Space – Palmer Lake loop are moderate, involving some elevation gains up to almost 400 feet to the top of Lincoln Mountain.