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Routes
Bike touring routes & trails
United States
Colorado
Chaffee County
Salida

Along the Arkansas River – Historic Downtown Salida loop from Salida

Routes
Bike touring routes & trails
United States
Colorado
Chaffee County
Salida

Along the Arkansas River – Historic Downtown Salida loop from Salida

Moderate

3.0

(21)

42

riders

Along the Arkansas River – Historic Downtown Salida loop from Salida

01:50

26.1km

180m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: April 26, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted

After 24.4 km for 91 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1

4.23 km

Frantz Lake

Highlight • Lake

2

23.3 km

Along the Arkansas River

Highlight • River

While enjoying the river banks, you can see the small mount "spiral drive" and are not too far from the vibrant city either.

Tip by

3

23.6 km

Riverside Park

Highlight • Rest Area

4

23.8 km

This is the perfect spot to watch people whitewater rafting.

Tip by

5

24.2 km

Historic Downtown Salida

Highlight • Settlement

Salida is a beautiful mountain town located in the heart of the Rockies in central Colorado. This little gem has a lot to keep you busy: no matter if you are an artistic mind or an outdoor enthusiast.

Tip by

6

24.4 km

Monarch Spur Trail

Highlight • Trail

The Monarch Spur Trail runs for 2.5 miles between the Arkansas River in downtown Salida west to the end of the railroad right-of-way near County Road 120. The trail provides …

Tip by

7

24.4 km

Salida

Highlight • Settlement

Salida is a great stop along the Great Divide Trail and a good base for shorter bike excursions. The beautiful mountain town is located in the heart of the Rockies …

Tip by

B

26.1 km

End point

Bus stop

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

17.6 km

5.79 km

1.50 km

552 m

449 m

195 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

14.9 km

9.48 km

1.66 km

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (2,230 m)

Lowest point (2,150 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Friday 10 July

29°C

9°C

11 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Description

If you're looking for a touring cycling route that perfectly blends natural beauty with historic charm, the Along the Arkansas River – Historic Downtown Salida loop from Salida is a fantastic choice. This moderate 16.2-mile (26.1 km) route, with just 589 feet (179 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding ride without being overly strenuous.

What to expect on Along the Arkansas River – Historic Downtown Salida loop from Salida

This loop offers a delightful visual journey, starting with picturesque views along the Arkansas River, where you might spot rafters and kayakers, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Collegiate Peaks. As you transition into Historic Downtown Salida, the scenery shifts to charming 19th-century brick buildings, unique boutiques, and art galleries. The terrain is mostly paved and flat to gently rolling, making it accessible for most touring cyclists. While the overall effort is manageable, the length contributes to its moderate rating, making it a great option for a longer, relaxed ride suitable for families and cyclists of all experience levels.

Planning your visit

Planning your ride is straightforward, as this loop is highly accessible. You'll be cycling on paved surfaces along the river and well-maintained city streets in downtown Salida. The downtown portion offers numerous opportunities for stops, including cafes, restaurants, and bike shops, so you can easily refuel or take a break. This route is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, with spring and fall offering particularly pleasant temperatures for cycling.

Trail details

  • Distance: 16.2 miles (26.1 km)
  • Elevation gain: 589 feet (179 metres)
  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Estimated time: 1 hours and 50 minutes

Nearby routes

Moderate

5

Salida and Poncha Springs loop

01:35h

25.7km

220m

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