Ward, Lefthand Canyon, and Lee Hill loop from Pearl Street

This challenging road cycling loop typically starts from East Pearl Street in Boulder, offering convenient access to the route.

The route features mostly well-paved surfaces, though a small percentage may include unpaved sections. You'll encounter diverse terrain, including the steep and sustained climbs of Lee Hill Drive, with gradients up to 13-16%, and the long, scenic ascent of Lefthand Canyon, averaging 4.1-4.4%.

This is considered a difficult road ride, requiring very good fitness. It involves a substantial elevation gain of about 1,338 meters (4,396 feet) over approximately 74.5 kilometers (46 miles), with relentless gradients on Lee Hill and a steep final climb to Ward.

Riders can enjoy continuously improving views of the Indian Peaks as they ascend Lefthand Canyon. The Lee Hill section offers fantastic vistas looking east over the plains and wide-open meadows in its upper parts. The small mountain town of Ward also adds an eclectic personality to the ride, and you'll pass through Lefthand Canyon and experience the Lee Hill Drive Climb.

Yes, the Ward General Store is a popular and friendly stop along the route, offering a convenient place to refuel and rest in the town of Ward.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically from late spring through early fall. Be aware that early spring can bring sand on the roads, impacting descent safety, and always check conditions before heading out.

While parts of the route are in the vicinity of Roosevelt National Forest, this specific road cycling loop primarily uses public roads. Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required for cycling this route itself. However, always respect local regulations and private property.

This route is a challenging road cycling loop with significant climbs and descents. It is not designed for dogs, and bringing them along on a bicycle is generally not recommended due to safety concerns for both the rider and the animal.

Key climbs include the Lee Hill Drive Climb, known for its steep gradients (8-16%), and the sustained ascent through Lefthand Canyon. Riders are rewarded with extended downhill sections, including a 'superfast' descent on the backside of Lee Hill and a 'super, super fun' 14-mile downhill from Ward.

Traffic is generally mild, especially in the higher elevations of Lefthand Canyon. However, cyclists should be mindful of cars, narrow shoulders on Lee Hill, and particularly watch for wildlife, such as deer, especially during descents.

This specific loop is known for its difficulty. While there are many other cycling routes in the Boulder area, this particular combination of Ward, Lefthand Canyon, and Lee Hill is a classic challenging ride. To make it less challenging, you might consider shorter segments or exploring other routes with less elevation gain.