The best cycling routes in Larimer County

Trail Ridge Road offers an unparalleled touring cycling experience, taking you high into the alpine tundra of Rocky Mountain National Park. You'll climb continuously, passing through stunning 360-degree mountain views and unobstructed vistas of the Continental Divide, with strategic pullouts like Many Parks Curve offering perfect photo opportunities. The landscape transforms as you gain elevation, revealing glacially carved peaks and vibrant wildflowers, alongside potential wildlife sightings of elk and bighorn sheep.

This is a challenging 41.5-mile (66.7 km) route with 3927 feet (1197 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking 4 hours and 30 minutes. The best time to cycle is during the unpredictable late spring window when the road is open to cyclists but closed to motor vehicles. Once fully open, expect significant vehicle congestion and narrow shoulders. Be prepared for rapidly changing and extreme weather, including cold temperatures and strong crosswinds, even in summer; warm, windproof layers are essential.

Known as the highest continuous paved road in the United States, Trail Ridge Road crests at 12,183 feet above sea level, making it North America's most challenging high-altitude cycling experience. The route is notable for its unique alpine tundra environment above treeline and the opportunity to ride without car traffic during its brief spring opening. Cell service is often nonexistent, so planning and preparedness are key for this difficult and rewarding journey.

The Poudre River Trail offers a delightful and accessible touring cycling experience, winding alongside the Cache la Poudre River. You'll glide through diverse scenery, from natural areas with cottonwood stands and wetland meadows to open spaces, often with distant views of the Rocky Mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially around Butterfly Woods, where you might spot various birds and other creatures enjoying the riverfront habitat.

This easy 7.5-mile (12.0 km) route has a minimal 25 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all skill levels and perfect for a relaxed 47-minute ride. The trail is primarily paved and well-maintained, with numerous access points that include parking, restrooms, and water fountains. It's a popular spot, so an early morning ride can offer a quieter experience, especially during peak seasons.

Recognized as a National Recreation Trail, the Poudre River Trail is a significant recreational asset that forms part of a larger 45-mile network connecting several Northern Colorado communities. Its location within the Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area highlights its ecological and historical importance, offering more than just a ride but a journey through a cherished natural and cultural landscape.

The Loveland Recreation Trail Loop is a fantastic option for an easy touring bicycle ride, offering a delightful mix of scenery. You'll pedal along the Big Thompson River, enjoying tree-covered riverside stretches, and then open up to beautiful lake and mountain views as you pass Boyd Lake State Park. The route also takes you through urban prairies and wetland meadows, where you might spot local wildlife like ducks, making for a pleasant and engaging experience.

Planning your visit to this popular route is straightforward, with multiple access points and parking available at various parks along the loop, such as Centennial Park. These parks often provide amenities like restrooms and picnic areas, making it convenient for a day out. The trail is fully paved and well-signed, making navigation simple, and it's suitable for year-round use, though summer cycling conditions are particularly enjoyable.

This 19.5-mile (31.4 km) loop is rated easy, with a gentle 334 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes to complete. It's a central part of Loveland's trail system, connecting to other regional trails like the Long View Trail, and is notable for its recent completion in 2021 and 2025, ensuring a continuous paved circuit around the city. It's a great choice for family friendly cycling or beginner touring cyclists.

This easy 21.4-mile touring cycling loop in Fort Collins offers a pleasant ride through natural areas and city parks, with 459 feet of eleva

Cycle the Poudre River Trail, a moderate 25.2-mile paved route along the Cache la Poudre River, offering scenic views and wildlife.

Cycle the Loveland Recreation Trail Loop, a moderate 34.1-mile route with 691 feet of elevation gain, offering diverse scenery and lake view

Challenging 29.6-mile touring cycling loop in Rocky Mountain National Park with 4068 feet of elevation gain.

This moderate 24.1-mile Fort Collins loop via the Spring Creek Trail offers scenic touring cycling through parks and natural areas.

Cycle the easy 20.6-mile Poudre River Trail, gaining 218 feet in 1 hour 54 minutes, with scenic river views and wildlife.