The best road cycling routes around Laporte
4.5
(47)
2,289
riders
99
rides
Road cycling routes around Laporte traverse a diverse landscape characterized by lakes, wetlands, forests, and prairies. The region features glacial kettle bogs and is in proximity to the Indiana Dunes National Park, offering varied terrain. Road cyclists can find routes that wind through natural preserves and along scenic waterways. The area provides a mix of flat, paved paths and routes with moderate elevation changes.
Best road cycling routes around Laporte
- The most popular road cycling route is Rist Canyon andโฆ
Last updated: May 1, 2026
153
riders
79.3km
04:42
1,370m
1,370m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
21
riders
55.3km
02:42
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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19
riders
62.5km
02:57
230m
230m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
110km
08:08
480m
480m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
99.2km
04:18
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado, is a must-stop when visiting Fort Collins. Known for its strong ties to cycling culture, and features bike-themed decor, the large brewery regularly hosts cycling events, and encourages visitors to arrive by bike. The outdoor space is a highlight, with expansive lawns, picnic tables, and a stage for live music, creating a festive environment perfect for socializing and enjoying Colorado's sunny weather. Food options at New Belgium include a rotating selection of food trucks that cater to diverse tastes, from gourmet burgers to waffles. Of course, the brewery's own beers are the main attraction, with favorites like Fat Tire Amber Ale and Voodoo Ranger IPA, as well as limited-edition and seasonal brews. The brewery tour is also a must-do when visiting the area.
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A vast urban space offering a prehistoric-themed playground, skate park, dog park, and horseshoe pits. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing break.
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County Road 49 is another great, isolated gravel road in the far northeastern corner of Colorado. This particular road skirts the edge of the Pawnee National Grasslands, a protected area with a wide variety of prairie plants and animals. You get great views of the grasslands as well as the mountains to the west as you ride on this generally well-maintained gravel road. Like all of the roads out here, while conditions can vary, it is doable on a road bike, but you might be more comfortable on a dedicated gravel bike, or at least one that can run 28-30mm tires at minimum. Cell service is a bit limited out here, so plan accordingly.
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Out in the prairies of northeastern Colorado most of these rural roads are gravel, intercut with the occasional paved road or section. These gravel roads are generally well-maintained and are doable on a road bike. You might be more comfortable, however, if you are able to run at least 28mm tires. Tubeless tires are also recommended if exploring County Road 96 out past Wellington toward Nunn (and beyond). Cell service can be spotty and in the spring/summer puncture vine (or goat head) can be a big problem out here. As the name indicates, this low-lying weed develops hard spiny burs after flowering that are notorious for puncturing tires. Despite this, the gravel roads out on County Road 96 and beyond are loads of fun; you get fantastic views of the entire front range, rolling hills, and isolation out in this rural part of Colorado.
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Nunn, Colorado is a small town located in Weld County. With a population of around 500 residents, Nunn maintains a close-knit, rural atmosphere. There are a few local businesses, the Nunn Public Library, and a community center. Nunn is a good place to stop and refill water bottles and shoot off a text message on a rural ride in northeastern Colorado.
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New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado, is a must-stop when visiting Fort Collins. Known for its strong ties to cycling culture, and features bike-themed decor, the large brewery regularly hosts cycling events, and encourages visitors to arrive by bike. The outdoor space is a highlight, with expansive lawns, picnic tables, and a stage for live music, creating a festive environment perfect for socializing and enjoying Colorado's sunny weather. Food options at New Belgium include a rotating selection of food trucks that cater to diverse tastes, from gourmet burgers to waffles. Of course, the brewery's own beers are the main attraction, with favorites like Fat Tire Amber Ale and Voodoo Ranger IPA, as well as limited-edition and seasonal brews. The brewery tour is also a must-do when visiting the area.
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Wellington, Colorado is a small rural town just northeast of Fort Collins. This is a great place to stop and refuel if riding out on the long, rolling roads north of the college town, or exploring the seemingly-endless gravel in this area. Wellington has a great coffee shop, Owl Canyon Coffee, and two breweries, Old Colorado Brewing and Soul Squared, for you to enjoy at the start, middle, or end of your ride.
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High up on the northern edge of the steep hills and cliffs above Horsetooth Reservoir is the Skyline Picnic Area and a small gravel parking lot. This scenic spot is a great place to sit down, eat lunch, and take in the sweeping views of the reservoir.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Laporte?
Laporte offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 95 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Laporte?
Road cycling routes in Laporte traverse a diverse landscape featuring lakes, wetlands, forests, and prairies. You'll find a mix of flat, paved paths and routes with moderate elevation changes, especially as you explore areas near glacial kettle bogs and the Indiana Dunes National Park.
Are there challenging road cycling routes in Laporte?
Yes, Laporte offers several challenging road cycling routes. For instance, the Rist Canyon and Masonville loop via Bingham Hill is a difficult 49.3-mile route with significant elevation gain through canyon landscapes. Another difficult option is the Nunn gravel loop, which covers over 68 miles.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly road cycling options in Laporte?
Absolutely. Laporte has over 40 easy road cycling routes. The region features dedicated paved trails like the Singing Sands Trail Loop near Michigan City and the Chessie Trail loop in Laporte, which offer gentle rides through scenic areas.
Can I find long-distance road cycling routes in Laporte?
Yes, Laporte is suitable for long-distance road cycling. Routes like the Nunn gravel loop extend over 68 miles (110 km), and the Wellington to Nunn loop is nearly 62 miles (99 km), providing ample opportunity for extended rides.
What natural attractions can I see while road cycling in Laporte?
While cycling in Laporte, you can encounter diverse natural beauty. The region is known for its lakes, wetlands, and forests. You might pass by areas like Pinhook Bog, a unique glacial kettle bog, or enjoy views of Stone Lake and Clear Lake. The proximity to the Indiana Dunes National Park also offers opportunities to see dunes, prairies, and forests.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the routes?
Yes, several routes offer views of notable landmarks and natural areas. You might cycle past the Prospect Ponds Natural Area, Horsetooth Reservoir, or Dixon Reservoir. The Poudre Trail is also a popular point of interest for cyclists.
What do other road cyclists appreciate most about cycling in Laporte?
The road cycling experience in Laporte is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes scenic routes through open country, along lakes, and through natural preserves, offering options for different ability levels.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Laporte?
Laporte offers good road cycling conditions through much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with autumn showcasing beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions may vary, and some trails might be less accessible.
Are the road cycling routes in Laporte suitable for families?
Yes, Laporte has family-friendly road cycling options. Many parks, such as Bluhm County Park and Luhr County Park, offer multi-use paved trails that are suitable for families and less experienced riders. The Chessie Trail loop is another easy, paved route that families can enjoy.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Laporte?
Many of Laporte County's parks, which host multi-use trails, typically offer parking facilities. For routes that start in urban areas or near specific attractions, street parking or designated lots may be available. For example, the Arthur's Rock Trailhead is a known parking location for accessing trails.
Are there options for road cycling near the Indiana Dunes National Park?
Yes, Laporte County's proximity to the Indiana Dunes National Park provides excellent road cycling opportunities. The park itself offers trails through diverse ecosystems, and the surrounding area features routes that allow you to explore the unique landscapes bordering Lake Michigan.
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