Florissant & Divide loop from Cripple Creek

You can typically find parking in Cripple Creek, which serves as a convenient starting and ending point for this loop. Cripple Creek offers various services and is a good base for your ride.

The route features a mix of surfaces. While primarily paved (around 46 km asphalt and 23 km other paved surfaces), there are some unpaved sections (approximately 4 km) that can be challenging and may require pushing your bike. Be aware that the road from Cripple Creek down to the valley on Road 1 is noted to be in poor condition, requiring caution.

This route is rich in history and natural beauty. You'll pass through areas of the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway, offering views of late 19th-century gold rush relics. Notable stops include Historic Downtown Cripple Creek, the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, and the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center.

While the route itself is on public roads, specific attractions like the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument and the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center have their own regulations regarding pets. It's best to check directly with these sites if you plan to bring a dog, especially if you intend to enter any facilities or trails within them.

The best time to cycle this loop is generally during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, to avoid snow and ice at higher elevations. Summer offers pleasant conditions, but be prepared for potential afternoon thunderstorms. Always check the weather forecast before you go.

No specific permits are required to cycle the public roads that make up this loop. However, if you plan to visit attractions like the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, there may be entrance fees or specific regulations for visitors.

Yes, the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a National Park Service site and typically has an entrance fee. Specific regulations apply within the monument, such as those regarding pets, off-trail travel, and collecting fossils. It's advisable to check their official website for current fees and rules before your visit.

Given the mixed surfaces, including some unpaved sections, a touring bicycle with wider tires or a gravel bike would be ideal. This will provide more comfort and stability on varied road conditions, especially if you are carrying gear.

Yes, Historic Downtown Cripple Creek offers various options for food, drink, and accommodation, making it a good place to start or end your ride. The Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center also has a cafe and gift shop.

The primary challenges are the significant elevation changes and high altitude (over 9,000 feet), requiring very good fitness. Additionally, some unpaved sections can be difficult, and the road from Cripple Creek down to the valley on Road 1 is in poor condition. Be prepared for varied road surfaces and demanding climbs.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the ADT - Colorado B - P - Seg 2, Hornbek Wildlife Loop, Petrified Forest Loop, Cheesman Ranch, Horsethief Park Trail (FS704), and Mount Pisgah Road, among others.