The best traffic-free bike rides in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest traverse a vast landscape spanning nearly 2.9 million acres across southeastern Wyoming and northern Colorado. The region is characterized by diverse topography, ranging from broad grasslands and undulating foothills to majestic peaks, with elevations from 5,500 to 12,940 feet. The forest is bisected by the Continental Divide and features prominent areas like the Snowy Range and granite outcroppings at Vedauwoo, offering varied terrain for cycling. Alpine lakes and dense forests are also common features throughout the area.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Elk Mountain loop, a 46.6 miles (75.0 km) trail that takes 6 hours 44 minutes to complete. This challenging route offers extensive riding through varied forest landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Forest Service Road 900 from Yampa to Bear Lake Campground, a difficult 27.4 miles (44.0 km) path. This route follows a forest service road, providing a remote cycling experience to a lakeside campground.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Barber Lake Road, a 10.3 miles (16.6 km) trail leading through forested areas, often completed in about 1 hour 12 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is defined by expansive grasslands, rolling foothills, alpine lakes, and dense forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate paths to more demanding climbs.
- The routes in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
31
riders
75.0km
06:44
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16.6km
01:13
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
44.0km
03:40
640m
640m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
62.0km
04:44
910m
910m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
14.6km
01:33
320m
320m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Here, you can observe the active hot springs, which is how Steamboat Springs got its name. As you ride along the bike trail, you'll come across informative signs about each hot spring. Please note that swimming is not allowed.
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The Elk River is a 34-mile stream that flows through the town of Steamboat Springs, as well as the neighboring towns of Hayden and Craig. It's a very popular spot for fishing and whitewater rafting in the summer.
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The ride to this point might be a bit more challenging than your average touring bike, but Forest Service Road 900 is one of the most scenic rides (or drives) in the Yampa Ranger District of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. This ride is best for something more robust than skinny road tires, and as a long day's outing (or even a bikepacking trip to the campground) where you don't mind sharing a roadway with people who are out for a scenic drive themselves. Keep an eye out for Colorado blue columbine β the state flower β in meadows near the road.
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The gravel roadway up to the pass may be a little more challenging than your average bike tour, but it should be manageable on most bikes as long as you don't have skinny road tires, and the views into The Flat Tops Wilderness are absolutely stunning. There's an even better viewpoint on a side trail to the east-southeast of the actual pass. The long, downhill coast on your way back is pretty great, too β just make sure you limit your speed enough to maintain control of the bike.
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Barber Lake Road is quiet enough β and scenic enough β to be a fun ride, even if you're not on a road bike. Just know that if you're riding east to west you'll be pedaling almost constantly uphill, whereas going west to east is a consistent (and super-fun) downhill. It's a lot more satisfying to get the uphill out of the way at the start. Along the way, you'll pass the turnoff for the Snowy Lake Lodge, now a private property but still on the National Register of Historic Places; and believe it or not, this is a great place to spot butterflies, like the hoary anglewing, as well. If you feel comfortable going downhill fast on a busier road, you can even turn this into a loop by going up Barber Lake Road and down Snowy Range Road.
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Barber Lake Road is a fun, winding ride with relatively little traffic. Its elevation gain/loss is also pretty consistent, so if you want to grind up this road, then let it rip as you descend the busier Snowy Range Road, it's a fun loop. Along the way you'll pass the turnoff for the Snowy Range Lodge, which was a working mountain lodge in Medicine Bow National Forest for years. It sits on the National Register of Historic Places, but is currently owned by a private family.
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If you ride this trail end of September you know why it is called Flash of Gold. Itβs so pretty!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest?
Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest offers over 60 dedicated touring cycling routes that prioritize low or no traffic, providing a serene experience through its diverse landscapes.
What are the typical difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in this region?
The routes in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest cater to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with approximately 8 easy routes, 27 moderate routes, and 25 difficult routes, ensuring options for beginners to experienced cyclists. For example, Lake Catamount β Lake Catamount loop from Steamboat Springs is a moderate option, while the Elk Mountain loop is considered difficult.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes with minimal traffic?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options, particularly among the easy and moderate routes. These often feature less elevation gain and smoother surfaces, making them suitable for a relaxed family outing. Look for routes around lower elevations or designated forest roads that are known for minimal vehicle traffic.
What kind of scenic attractions can I expect to see along the routes?
Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to encounter stunning alpine lakes, impressive granite formations, and dramatic mountain passes. Notable highlights include Rabbit Ears Pass, Meaden Pass Summit, and the Eastern descent from Meaden Pass. The forest also offers opportunities for wildlife observation and vibrant fall foliage.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest?
The prime season for touring cycling is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During this period, most roads and trails are clear of snow, and the weather is generally favorable. Keep in mind that higher elevation routes, like those on the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, may open later in the season due to snow.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, the region offers several circular routes, which are ideal for touring cyclists looking to start and end in the same location. An example is the Elk Mountain loop, which provides a comprehensive experience of the local landscape.
Can I find routes that are specifically on quiet gravel roads?
Many of the low-traffic routes in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest utilize forest service roads, which often consist of well-maintained gravel. These routes are excellent for gravel bikes and offer a truly immersive, quiet cycling experience away from paved roads. An example is Forest Service Road 900 from Yampa to Bear Lake Campground.
What are the options for parking when accessing these touring cycling routes?
Parking is generally available at various trailheads, campgrounds, and designated access points throughout the National Forest. It's advisable to check specific route details or local forest service information for the most convenient and appropriate parking locations for your chosen starting point.
Are there any towns or amenities near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, towns like Steamboat Springs, Saratoga, and Encampment are located near or within the vicinity of the National Forest, offering amenities such as lodging, dining, and supplies. These towns can serve as convenient bases for your touring cycling adventures.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the extensive network of quiet roads and trails, and the sense of solitude found on many of the routes, making it ideal for no-traffic touring.
Are there any routes that offer significant elevation challenges for advanced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. The diverse topography of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, with elevations ranging up to 12,940 feet, provides numerous challenging routes. For instance, the Dunckley Pass from Yampa route involves significant climbing, offering over 900 meters of elevation gain and a rewarding experience for advanced riders.
Most popular routes in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
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