The best traffic-free bike rides in Douglas County

Douglas County offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes. Our guide features over 20 routes, with 13 classified as easy, 10 as moderate, and 1 as difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Douglas County offer incredibly diverse scenery. You can expect to ride through grasslands, past oak bluffs, and into Ponderosa pine forests. Many routes also feature picturesque views of the Front Range mountains, red rock formations, and follow significant waterways like the South Platte River and Chatfield Reservoir. The county's extensive open spaces provide a natural, tranquil backdrop for your rides.

Yes, Douglas County has several easy, family-friendly options. For instance, the Bluestem Prairie Preserve – Zorinsky Lake Trail loop from Douglas County is an easy route. Another great choice is the Sulphur Gulch and Tallman Gulch Trail Loop in Parker, which is an easy 8.7-mile paved loop blending natural gulches and urban sights. The Keystone Trail – Harrison Heights Park loop from University of Nebraska Medical Center is also an easy option.

Many routes offer access to beautiful natural features and landmarks. You can explore areas near Glenn Cunningham Lake or Zorinsky Lake. The region is also known for its dramatic red rock formations, especially near Roxborough State Park. Keep an eye out for the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge or the West Papio Creek Bridge on some routes.

Douglas County offers excellent cycling opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be great, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. While some trails may be accessible in winter, always check local conditions for snow or ice, especially at higher elevations.

Yes, for those seeking a longer, more challenging ride, the Cunningham Lake Bridge – Keystone Trail loop from Richland III Precinct is a moderate 92.7 km route with a decent elevation gain. The East/West Regional Trail also offers a moderately difficult, non-technical ride on mostly gravel surfaces with challenging vertical feet and grades up to 8%, winding through grasslands and oak bluffs.

Absolutely! Many of the no-traffic routes in Douglas County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Hastings Banner Park – Big Papio Trail loop from Baxter Arena and the Old railroad bridge and dam – Papillion Creek loop from Oak View Mall. The Dawson Butte Trail Loop is another easy 4.7-mile loop with great views.

Many of Douglas County's extensive trail systems, including those suitable for no-traffic road cycling, offer designated parking areas at trailheads. For specific routes, parking is often available near major access points or parks that connect to the trails. For example, routes starting from places like Baxter Arena or Oak View Mall typically have parking facilities.

Many of Douglas County's open spaces and trails are dog-friendly, but specific rules can vary by location. It's always best to check the regulations for the particular trail you plan to ride. Generally, dogs are required to be on a leash, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets to maintain the natural environment for everyone.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Douglas County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 100 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the diverse and scenic landscapes ranging from forests to red rock formations, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and safe cycling experience.

Yes, Douglas County's trails often pass through or near communities like Parker and Castle Rock, where you can find various amenities. While specific establishments vary, you'll typically find cafes for a coffee break, pubs for refreshments, and accommodation options ranging from hotels to guesthouses, especially near the more urban-connected sections of trails like the Cherry Creek Trail or the East Plum Creek Trail.