The best traffic-free bike rides in Douglas County

Douglas County offers a good selection of traffic-free touring cycling routes. Our guide features 6 carefully curated routes, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The traffic-free routes in Douglas County offer diverse terrain. You'll find paths with smooth dirt, fine crushed gravel, and paved surfaces. The landscape varies from scenic canyons and riverside trails along the South Platte River and Cherry Creek, to expansive grasslands, oak bluffs, and Ponderosa pine forests. Some routes, like sections of the East/West Regional Trail, feature flowy turns, ascents, and descents, providing engaging rides with views of the Colorado Front Range mountains.

Yes, Douglas County has several family-friendly options. Many routes consist of non-technical, smooth dirt, fine crushed gravel, or paved surfaces, making them accessible for different skill levels. For example, the Walla Walla Point Park loop from Wenatchee is an easy, shorter option perfect for a relaxed family outing.

Douglas County's routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can experience dramatic red rock formations, particularly in areas like Roxborough State Park, and enjoy views of the Front Range mountains. Trails often follow rivers and creeks, providing picturesque riverside parks. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially in areas like Waterton Canyon. You might also encounter highlights such as Lincoln Rock State Park or sections of the Rocky Reach Trail.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride in the same location. An example is the Walla Walla Point Park loop from Wenatchee, which is an easy 8 km ride. Another option is the Walla Walla Point Park – Walla Walla Point Park loop from Wenatchee Confluence State Park, offering a slightly shorter, easy loop.

Douglas County is enjoyable for cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring. Summer can be warm, but many trails provide shade or follow water bodies. While some routes might be accessible in winter, it's always best to check local conditions for snow and ice, especially on unpaved sections.

The komoot community highly rates the traffic-free touring cycling in Douglas County, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, from canyons to grasslands, and the well-maintained, car-free paths that allow for a peaceful and immersive cycling experience. The accessibility for various skill levels and the opportunity for wildlife viewing are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for experienced cyclists looking for a longer and more challenging ride, Douglas County offers options. The Bike loop from Easy St & Lower Sunnyslope Rd is a difficult 59.9 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a substantial challenge. Another difficult option is the Spring Lakes – Crystal Lake loop from Ancient Lakes Trailhead, covering 31.2 km with notable ascents.

Many trails in Douglas County are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to check specific park and trail regulations before you go. Always keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them. Some open spaces and state parks may have specific rules regarding pets on trails, so a quick check of the relevant park's website is recommended.

Many of the popular trailheads and parks in Douglas County offer dedicated parking facilities. For example, routes starting from areas like Walla Walla Point Park or Wenatchee Confluence State Park typically have parking available. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details on komoot or the relevant park's website for precise parking information before your ride.

Absolutely. Several routes in Douglas County provide excellent views of the Front Range mountains. The East/West Regional Trail, for instance, winds through grasslands and oak bluffs, offering panoramic vistas of the Front Range. The Dawson Butte Trail Loop also provides clear views of the mountains, making for a very scenic ride.