Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
The best road cycling routes in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
4.2
(35)
1,636
riders
50
rides
Road cycling in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge offers routes across restored prairie, wetlands, and along river paths. The terrain is generally flat with gentle undulations, providing accessible cycling experiences. This area features open landscapes, several lakes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it suitable for various road cycling activities.
Best road cycling routes in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
- The most popular road cycling route is South Platte River Bridge – South Platte River Trail loop from Arsenal Perimeter Trail Parking, a 50.2 miles (80.8 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 5 minutes to complete. This route offers extensive river views and open prairie scenery.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Perimeter Trail, a difficult 21.2 miles (34.2 km) path. This route circles the refuge, providing diverse views of its landscapes and wildlife habitats.
- Local road cyclists also love the Bluff Lake Park – View of Sand Creek loop from Dick's Sporting Goods Park, a 14.0 miles (22.5 km) trail leading through Bluff Lake Park and along Sand Creek, often completed in about 1 hour 8 minutes.
- Road cycling in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is defined by flat plains, river paths, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 2,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
9
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
106
riders
34.2km
05:14
90m
90m
Cycle the 21.2-mile Rocky Mountain Arsenal Perimeter Trail for wildlife viewing, prairie views, and a challenging gravel ride.
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17
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
33
riders
32.2km
01:39
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
50
riders
51.6km
02:29
140m
140m
Cycle the 32.0-mile Cherry Creek, South Platte & Sand Creek Trails Loop, a moderate route offering diverse urban and natural Denver scenery.
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Gravel biking in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Tips from the Community
The South Platte River Trail runs for nearly 35 miles through the suburbs and city of Denver, Colorado. This paved, multi-use path is popular with runners and walkers as well as bike commuters but is also a fantastic way to explore the Denver area on a long weekend ride away from traffic. The trail provides access to numerous parks, including Chatfield State Park at its far southern end. The South Platte River Trail is part of a larger network of trails in the Denver metropolitan area, connecting to the Cherry Creek Trail and the High Line Canal Trail, among others. It offers great views of the foothills, river, and wildlife as you ride.
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This neighborhood park and open space is a popular spot for fishing. It also connects to the Platte River Trail and Colorado Front Range Trail.
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Great view of the South Platte River from the cycle trail. The trail is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, so if you want to stop to enjoy the view, make sure you pull off to the side.
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The South Platte River Trail runs for nearly 35 miles through the suburbs and city of Denver, Colorado. This paved, multi-use path is popular with runners and walkers as well as bike commuters but is also a fantastic way to explore the Denver area on a long weekend ride away from traffic. The trail provides access to numerous parks, including Chatfield State Park at its far southern end. The South Platte River Trail is part of a larger network of trails in the Denver metropolitan area, connecting to the Cherry Creek Trail and the High Line Canal Trail, among others. It offers great views of the foothills, river, and wildlife as you ride.
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The Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail, or Greenway Trail, is one of the main trails on the southern side of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. It helps connect different trails to each other, but unlike some of the other trails, this one is open for bikes. Although it can be a little dry and loose, overall this is very easy, well-graded, gravel trail. Another nice feature of this trail is that dogs are not allowed.
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Riverdale Regional Park is a sprawling area that caters to a variety of interests. It functions as a haven for nature lovers with walking trails, and a spot for history buffs with the Adams County Museum. Every year, the park transforms into a festive venue for various summer celebrations.
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This bridge offers a prime view of the Platte River and the surrounding lakes.
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Clear Creek, a vibrant waterway roughly 66 miles long, originates in the Rocky Mountains west of Denver, finally meeting with the South Platte River. The contrast in the water's color and flow is often noticeable, with Clear Creek's clear, fast-moving water meeting the South Platte's slower, sometimes more opaque flow.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge?
There are nearly 50 road cycling routes in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, offering diverse experiences across restored prairie and wetlands. The komoot community has explored these routes over 2,000 times.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in the refuge?
Yes, the refuge offers a good selection of routes for beginners. You can find around 20 easy road cycling routes, such as the Bluff Lake Park – View of Sand Creek loop from Dick's Sporting Goods Park, which is 14.0 miles (22.5 km) long and generally flat.
What options are there for experienced road cyclists looking for a challenge?
For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, there are a few more difficult routes available. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Perimeter Trail is a notable option, covering 21.2 miles (34.2 km) and circling the entire refuge, providing diverse views and a longer ride.
Can I find circular road cycling routes within Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the refuge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the South Platte River Bridge – South Platte River Trail loop from Arsenal Perimeter Trail Parking, which is a substantial 50.2 miles (80.8 km) route offering extensive river views.
Are the road cycling routes in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge suitable for families?
The generally flat terrain and well-maintained paths make many of the routes suitable for families. With 20 easy routes available, you can find shorter, less strenuous options perfect for a family outing. The opportunity for wildlife viewing also adds to the family-friendly experience.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while road cycling in the refuge?
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is known for its diverse wildlife. While cycling, you might spot bison, deer, various bird species, and other prairie animals in their natural habitats across the open landscapes and wetlands.
What interesting sights or landmarks can I explore along the road cycling routes?
Along the road cycling routes, you can explore several points of interest. Keep an eye out for the First Creek Overlook for panoramic views, or enjoy the serene waters of Lake Ladora and Rod and Gun Club Pond. The Greenway Trail also offers scenic sections.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of cycling through a wildlife refuge, the generally flat and accessible terrain, and the opportunities for wildlife viewing amidst open prairie and wetland scenery.
What are the typical road conditions for cycling in the refuge?
The road cycling routes in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge primarily feature paved surfaces, offering smooth riding conditions. The terrain is generally flat with gentle undulations, making for a comfortable ride across most of the refuge's paths.
Is there parking available for road cyclists at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge?
Yes, parking is available at various access points around the refuge. For example, the South Platte River Bridge – South Platte River Trail loop starts from Arsenal Perimeter Trail Parking, indicating designated areas for visitors to park their vehicles before heading out on their ride.
Are there any routes that connect to trails outside the refuge?
Yes, some routes extend beyond the immediate refuge boundaries. For instance, the Asuka Ramen – City Park Denver loop from Dick's Sporting Goods Park connects to areas like City Park in Denver, offering a longer ride that integrates urban landscapes with the natural environment.
Most popular routes in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
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