Little Bear Creek Road (Gravel)

The Mount Blue Sky (Evans) to Juniper and Mestaa'Ėhehe Passes loop is a high-octane gravel cycling route that plunges you into Colorado's alpine heart. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from open ponderosa and juniper hills to deep spruce forests, eventually breaking above timberline into a treeless tundra environment. The views from the Mount Blue Sky Summit are truly expansive, stretching across the Continental Divide and the entire Front Range, often accompanied by sightings of marmots, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.

This difficult 58.3-mile (93.9 km) loop demands very good fitness, with a substantial 8080 feet (2463 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 5 hours and 56 minutes. Be prepared for thin air and highly volatile mountain weather, which can include strong winds, rain, or even snow at any time. While the route connects to the highest paved road in North America, expect varied gravel conditions, some potentially rough, and continuous climbing.

This area holds significant historical value as part of the Denver Mountain Parks system, designed to make the mountains accessible. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, which forms part of this loop, is famous for its extreme altitude and unique alpine ecosystem, showcasing hardy wildflowers and lichens. It's also the setting for the iconic Bob Cook Mount Blue Sky Hill Climb, underscoring its challenging reputation among cyclists.

This difficult 30.8-mile gravel cycling loop from Idaho Springs climbs 3724 feet to Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass with stunning Rocky Mountain views.

The Idaho Springs to Witter Gulch — Gravel route is a demanding journey through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, perfect for those who love a good climb. You'll pedal through beautiful pine and aspen forests, especially vibrant in the fall, before the landscape opens up to dramatic alpine vistas. The route features a mix of gravel surfaces, from smooth stretches on Little Bear Creek Road to the notoriously tight and steep switchbacks of Witter Gulch Road, culminating in the high-altitude reward of Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass Summit.

This challenging gravel cycling route covers 26.8 miles (43.1 km) with a substantial 4832 feet (1473 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring around 3 hours and 36 minutes to complete. Given the difficulty of Witter Gulch Road, ensure you have a suitable gravel bike and good fitness. The best time to tackle this route is during the warmer months, but always check for seasonal conditions, especially at higher elevations, as snow can linger.

Starting from the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, this route offers a true gravel cycling experience, distinguishing it from purely paved options. The ascent to Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass Summit is a key highlight, providing a profound sense of accomplishment and expansive views of the surrounding peaks. It's one of the more popular gravel bike routes near Idaho Springs for cyclists seeking a significant workout and stunning high-alpine scenery.