The best road cycling routes around Longmont

Longmont offers a diverse network of over 40 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 17 easy, 23 moderate, and 3 more challenging options.

For an easy and family-friendly ride, the Saint Vrain Greenway and Longmont Loop is a great choice. It's a 23.6-mile route that combines the scenic St. Vrain Greenway with the broader Longmont Loop, offering a smooth and enjoyable experience through neighborhoods, parks, and greenways. Another excellent option is the Longmont Loop, a 17.3-mile easy path.

Yes, Longmont features several excellent loop trails. The Longmont Loop and Saint Vrain Greenway is a popular 22.4-mile loop. Another favorite is the Hygiene and Nelson Road loop, which spans 22.8 miles and offers pleasant rural scenery with views of the Boulder Foothills.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, including Longs Peak. You can also explore natural attractions like McIntosh Lake, which provides panoramic mountain vistas, or the serene Golden Ponds. The St. Vrain Greenway follows the scenic St. Vrain Creek, offering shaded sections and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Longmont boasts over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for road cycling year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer provides long daylight hours. Even in winter, many days are clear and mild enough for a ride, though checking local weather conditions is always recommended.

Absolutely. Longmont's trail system connects to broader regional networks, allowing for extended rides. The Longmont-to-Boulder (LOBO) Regional Trail, for instance, provides a 26.8-mile route connecting Longmont to Boulder's extensive cycling network, featuring mostly paved surfaces with some hard-packed gravel sections.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Longmont, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive greenways, the open plains, and the distant mountain vistas. The variety of routes, from easy paved paths to moderate options, is also a highlight.

While popular routes like the St. Vrain Greenway can see more activity, many of Longmont's rural roads and less-trafficked loops offer a more serene experience. Exploring routes like the Hygiene, Niwot Road, and Lyons loop, which leads through varied rural landscapes, can provide a quieter ride, especially during off-peak hours.

Many of Longmont's parks and trailheads offer designated parking areas. For example, access points along the St. Vrain Greenway and near McIntosh Lake typically have parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific trailhead information for the route you plan to ride.

Yes, Longmont's natural areas are rich in wildlife. The St. Vrain Greenway, McIntosh Lake, and the Golden Ponds are known for abundant wildlife, making them excellent spots for birdwatching. You might spot various bird species, deer, and other local fauna, especially in the quieter sections of the trails.

While specific cafes might not be directly on every trail, Longmont is a city with numerous amenities. Many routes pass through or near residential and commercial areas where you can find cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores for refreshments. Planning your route with a quick detour into town can easily accommodate a coffee break or snack stop.