Spring in Colorado is the perfect time to hit the trails—cool temps, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds before summer kicks in. Whether you’re looking for a scenic ride, a challenging climb, or a mix of road and gravel, these trails offer some of the best cycling experiences in the state.
1. Cherry Creek Trail (Denver to Franktown)
📍 Location: Denver → Parker → Franktown
🚴♂️ Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
📏 Distance: ~40 miles (one way)
- A paved, multi-use path stretching from downtown Denver to Cherry Creek State Park and beyond.
- Perfect for road cyclists and casual riders looking for a smooth ride with plenty of scenic spots.
- Spring bonus: Enjoy the cherry blossoms and wildlife as you ride!
2. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Estes Park to Black Hawk)
📍 Location: Estes Park → Nederland → Black Hawk
🚴♂️ Difficulty: Challenging
📏 Distance: ~60 miles
- One of the most iconic road cycling routes in Colorado, featuring long climbs, breathtaking mountain views, and thrilling descents.
- Expect elevation gains (over 6,000 ft!) and some of the most beautiful views of Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Best for advanced cyclists ready for a serious spring ride.
3. Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail (Glenwood Springs)
📍 Location: Glenwood Springs → Hanging Lake
🚴♂️ Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
📏 Distance: ~16 miles (round trip)
- A paved, scenic ride along the Colorado River, winding through the stunning Glenwood Canyon.
- Ride past towering cliffs and even make a stop to hike up to Hanging Lake if you’re feeling adventurous!
- A great family-friendly option with minimal elevation gain.
4. Lariat Loop (Golden to Morrison)
📍 Location: Golden → Lookout Mountain → Morrison
🚴♂️ Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
📏 Distance: ~35 miles
- Starts in Golden, taking you up the famous Lookout Mountain Road with stunning views of Denver.
- Fast descents and rolling terrain through Morrison and Red Rocks Park before looping back.
- Popular training route for triathletes and road cyclists looking to get some climbing in!
5. High Line Canal Trail (Denver to Highlands Ranch)
📍 Location: Denver → Highlands Ranch
🚴♂️ Difficulty: Easy
📏 Distance: ~70 miles (full trail)
- A mostly flat, crushed gravel trail winding through urban green spaces, parks, and tree-lined paths.
- Great for gravel bikes, hybrid bikes, and even casual riders looking for a scenic, relaxed ride.
- Spring highlights: Gorgeous cottonwood trees and plenty of wildlife spotting!
6. Twin Lakes to Independence Pass (Aspen/Leadville)
📍 Location: Twin Lakes → Independence Pass
🚴♂️ Difficulty: Very Challenging
📏 Distance: ~36 miles (round trip)
- One of Colorado’s most legendary climbs, leading to the 12,095 ft summit of Independence Pass.
- Opens in late spring (check conditions!) and offers stunning alpine views with steep switchbacks.
- Perfect for strong climbers and those training for endurance races.
7. Trail Ridge Road (Rocky Mountain National Park – Seasonal Ride)
📍 Location: Estes Park → Grand Lake
🚴♂️ Difficulty: Extremely Challenging
📏 Distance: ~48 miles (one way)
- The highest continuous paved road in North America (12,183 ft at the summit!).
- Spring bonus: The road is often open to cyclists before cars in late May, making for an epic, car-free mountain ride!
- A must-do for experienced riders who love big climbs and breathtaking views.
Spring in Colorado offers unbeatable riding conditions, whether you want a casual ride along the river or a bucket-list mountain climb. If you need gear, nutrition, or a bike tune-up before your ride, swing by Arvada Triathlon Company—we’ve got everything you need to make your spring break ride epic!
