The best traffic-free bike rides in El Paso County

There are over 90 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in El Paso County, offering a wide range of experiences from easy scenic rides to challenging mountain ascents. You'll find options suitable for all skill levels.

El Paso County, Colorado, offers diverse terrain. You can expect high-altitude mountain roads, extensive pine forests, and open plains. Routes like the Pikes Peak Highway provide challenging climbs with expansive mountain views, while the Pineries Trail winds through serene pine forests on an easier path.

Yes, El Paso County has several easy, no-traffic options. The Pineries Trail is an 8.3-mile easy path through serene pine forests, perfect for a relaxed ride. Many urban and natural loops also provide accessible and scenic experiences.

El Paso County is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past iconic formations like the Three Graces rock formation in Garden of the Gods Park, or reach the breathtaking Pikes Peak summit on more challenging routes. Other highlights include North Gateway Rock and the Keyhole Rock (Sleeping Giant).

The best time to visit El Paso County, Colorado, for touring cycling is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and mountain passes are clear of snow. Always check local weather and road conditions, especially for high-altitude routes like Pikes Peak, as conditions can change rapidly.

For those seeking longer distances, the Colorado Front Range Trail offers a challenging 50-mile route through Pike National Forest, featuring diverse terrain and expansive views. This route provides a significant touring experience without vehicle traffic.

Yes, many routes in El Paso County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Falcon Trail Loop near the Air Force Academy is a moderate 12.7-mile option with varied terrain. Other urban and natural loops also provide convenient circular options.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in El Paso County, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 55 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning mountain vistas, the variety of terrain from serene forests to challenging ascents, and the well-maintained trails that offer a true escape from traffic.

While not exclusively for wildlife viewing, routes that traverse through natural areas like the Pineries Trail or sections of the Colorado Front Range Trail offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitats. Keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and other small mammals, especially during quieter times of the day.

El Paso County offers a good mix of difficulty levels. Approximately 35 routes are rated easy, 40 are moderate, and 16 are considered difficult. This ensures that whether you're a beginner or an experienced touring cyclist, you'll find a no-traffic route that matches your skill and fitness level.

Absolutely. For a significant challenge, the Pikes Peak Summit via Pikes Peak Highway route involves over 1500 meters of elevation gain over 42 kilometers, providing an epic and rewarding ascent to one of Colorado's most famous peaks.