The best road cycling routes around Glendale
4.7
(21)
1,382
riders
27
rides
Road cycling routes around Glendale traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, open roads, and scenic canyons. The region features varied terrain, including climbs like Lee Hill and routes around natural features such as Brainard Lake and Wonderland Lake. These paths offer a mix of challenging ascents and more gradual sections, providing diverse experiences for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes around Glendale
- The most popular road cycling route is Brainard Lake loop via Old Stage, Super James, and Lee…
Last updated: October 5, 2026
155
riders
75.0km
04:30
1,810m
1,810m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.3
(3)
70
riders
36.5km
01:42
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
52
hikers
4.95km
01:35
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
142
riders
45.0km
02:30
990m
990m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
127
riders
32.2km
01:49
620m
620m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
Steep. Bring your gears. Wonderful views. Ride it early during the week
0
0
Panorama Point on Flagstaff Mountain in Boulder, CO, offers stunning, panoramic views of the city, whether it's day or night, all year round. You can drive up to the overlook, making it accessible to families and dogs. Parking is limited, however, and the vehicle length limit on Flagstaff Road is 30 feet because it is narrow and twisty. Several trails start and/or pass by here including Flagstaff Trail and the Viewpoint Trail, the latter of which climbs from Boulder Canyon and Eben G. Fine Park near downtown. Panorama Point has three picnic tables, but no restrooms.
0
0
Brainard Lake is a beautiful alpine lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness below the Continental Divide surrounded by subalpine forest. It is in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, which during the summer season usually requires a reservation and a fee, but if you are on your bike you do not need to pay or reserve a time slot. Because of the area's high elevation, snow typically remains until late spring, even on the paved road to the lake.
0
0
Lee Hill Drive is a popular, challenging climb that connects the intersection of Lee Hill with Olde Stage just outside of North Boulder, and Lefthand Canyon. The backside of Lee Hill (the Lefthand Canyon side) is a little nicer for climbing because there is less traffic than on the the Boulder side where there is no shoulder on a series of initial switchbacks. Regardless of which way you go up Lee Hill, coming down the 1,400 foot climb is a real treat after the challenging journey up!
0
0
The "Super James" climb is one of the more notorious climbs in the area. Super James from Jamestown consists of about 1,800 of climbing in 6 miles with an average grade of 8%. This 4.4 mile section of Super James, between Jamestown and where the road turns to gravel, is where the majority of the hard climbing happens. The twisting nature of the road makes the hard climbing, with some moments being far over an average of 15%, feel even harder; you just can't see the next section of hill coming! Fortunately, you've had all of Lefthand and the climb up James Canyon Drive to warm up for this climb, which has
0
0
This final section of the notorious Super James climb is on gravel. In comparison to the previous section of Super James from Jamestown, this final push up to the Peak to Peak highway is fairly mellow with only an average grade of 1.3% over 2.15 miles on smooth gravel that is easily done on road bikes with tires over about 25mm. You get increasingly great views of the mountains as you climb up this section of Overland Road; an excellent reward at the end of a hard climb!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Glendale?
There are over 20 road cycling routes around Glendale, offering a variety of experiences from moderate loops to more challenging ascents. The komoot community has explored these routes over 1,300 times.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Glendale?
Road cycling routes around Glendale feature a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, open roads, and scenic canyons. You'll encounter a mix of challenging climbs, such as Lee Hill Drive Climb, and more gradual sections, often around natural features like Brainard Lake and Wonderland Lake.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Glendale?
Yes, Glendale offers several routes suitable for beginners. There are 4 easy routes available, providing a gentler introduction to road cycling in the area. These routes typically have less elevation gain and shorter distances.
Are there family-friendly road cycling routes in Glendale?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always available for road cycling, routes categorized as 'easy' are generally more suitable for families or those looking for a less strenuous ride. These routes often feature smoother terrain and shorter distances.
Are there circular road cycling routes around Glendale?
Yes, many road cycling routes in Glendale are designed as loops. For example, the Brainard Lake loop via Old Stage, Super James, and Lee Hill from North Boulder — Gravel and the Niwot and Nelson Roads, Lefthand Canyon, and Olde Stage loop are popular circular options.
What are some scenic road cycling routes near Glendale?
Glendale's routes are known for their scenic beauty. The Niwot and Nelson Roads, Lefthand Canyon, and Olde Stage loop offers a mix of open roads and canyon views. Routes around Wonderland Lake also provide picturesque settings. You'll often find views of the surrounding mountains and natural landscapes.
What is the typical length of road cycling routes in Glendale?
Route lengths vary significantly in Glendale. You can find shorter routes, like the Wonderland Lake (Gravel) – Lee Hill Drive Climb loop from Foothills Community Park at 16.2 miles (26 km), to longer, more challenging rides such as the Brainard Lake loop, which spans 46.6 miles (75 km).
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Glendale?
The road cycling routes in Glendale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 18 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic canyons, and the mix of challenging climbs and enjoyable descents.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the road cycling routes?
Yes, several routes pass by notable landmarks and natural features. You might encounter the challenging Lee Hill Drive Climb, ride through Sunshine Canyon, or pass by Mount Sanitas. The Old Stage Road also offers scenic sections.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Glendale?
Glendale generally offers good road cycling conditions during the spring, summer, and fall months. The specific 'best' time can depend on personal preference for temperature and avoiding potential snow at higher elevations, which is typically cleared by late spring.
Are there road cycling routes in Glendale with coffee shops or places to refuel?
While specific routes aren't explicitly designed around coffee shops, many routes pass through or near towns and communities where you can find places to refuel. For instance, the Jamestown Mercantile Café – Lee Hill Drive Climb loop from Lyons starts near Lyons, which offers amenities.
What are the difficulty levels of road cycling routes in Glendale?
Glendale offers a range of difficulty levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 6 difficult routes. This variety ensures options for cyclists of all experience levels, from those seeking a leisurely ride to those looking for a significant challenge with considerable elevation gain.
Most popular attractions around Glendale
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
