The best road cycling routes in Meyer Ranch Park (Area Closed)

The Black Mountain Drive – Evergreen Memorial Park Barn loop offers a truly scenic and demanding road cycling experience through the Colorado mountains. You'll pedal along quiet, well-paved roads, ascending through diverse landscapes where you might even spot elk. The highlight is undoubtedly Evergreen Memorial Park, a tranquil 100-acre expanse featuring rolling meadows, rustic cabins, and a charming barn that overlooks a reservoir and a buffalo herd, all set against a backdrop of the Continental Divide's majestic peaks.

This is a difficult ride, spanning 29.0 miles (46.7 km) with a significant 3160 feet (963 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 54 minutes. It's best suited for experienced road cyclists with very good fitness. The route starts from Aspen Park, and while specific parking isn't detailed, it's a known access point for the area. Plan to carry enough water and supplies for the duration, especially on warm days, and check weather conditions before heading out.

What makes this loop stand out is the combination of a quiet mountain road climb on Black Mountain Drive, known for its smooth surface and lack of sharp turns, and the rewarding panoramic views from Evergreen Memorial Park. The park itself is a notable landmark, offering a peaceful setting and unique natural features like the buffalo herd. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a challenging ride with memorable scenery and the chance for wildlife sightings.

Embark on a challenging road cycling journey that connects the diverse landscapes of Aspen Park with the iconic geological wonders near Morrison. This route takes you through mountainous terrain with pine and aspen groves, offering views of the Elk Mountain Range, before transitioning to the dramatic red sandstone formations of Red Rocks Park. You'll navigate constant, sinuous climbs and pass by the historic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, eventually reaching Dinosaur Ridge to see the ancient Apatosaurus Bulges. It's a ride for those who appreciate varied scenery and significant elevation changes.

This difficult 49.5-mile (79.6 km) road cycling loop, with its 4686 feet (1428 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious undertaking that typically takes around 4 hours and 19 minutes. Starting from Aspen Park, you'll need to plan your connection to the Red Rocks Park and Dinosaur Ridge areas, as this combined route is not a standard, recognized loop. Ensure you have excellent fitness and are prepared for sustained climbs and a full day in the saddle.

The Red Rocks Park area is a classic ride for local Denver cyclists, known for its unique geological formations and challenging ascents. Dinosaur Ridge offers an unparalleled educational experience with real dinosaur footprints and fossils. Combining these with the scenic, mountainous roads around Aspen Park creates a unique and ambitious cycling adventure, distinct from the more commonly ridden loops within each individual area.

This road cycling loop between Denver Mountain Park and Staunton State Park offers a fantastic challenge for those who love to climb. You'll pedal through varied landscapes, from dense pine forests and vibrant aspen groves to open meadows and past impressive granite cliffs within Staunton State Park, with views of surrounding peaks. The route is a moderate 28.8-mile (46.4 km) journey with a significant 2901 feet (884 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 8 minutes.

Planning your ride requires a bit of foresight. If your route takes you into Staunton State Park, you'll need a Colorado State Parks pass or to pay a daily entrance fee. Parking is generally ample at Staunton State Park, but it's a popular spot, so arriving early on weekends is a smart move. While mostly paved, be ready for a few unpaved sections where you might need to walk your bike.

This loop is a highly rated and popular choice among local cyclists in the Colorado Front Range, connecting two beautiful state parks. Staunton State Park itself is a gem, known for its unique rock formations, diverse plant communities, and even a waterfall you can hike to, making it a rewarding destination beyond just the cycling. It's a great way to experience the region's natural beauty and get a rigorous workout.

The Loop from Conifer by Reynolds Park offers a demanding road cycling experience, winding through diverse ecosystems of montane forests and open meadows. As you tackle this difficult route, you'll be treated to expansive distant views of the majestic Rocky Mountains, with potential glimpses of Pikes Peak. The journey is characterized by significant climbs and some "tighter twisties" on roads like Deer Creek Canyon Road, making it a true test of endurance over its 37.6 miles (60.5 km) and 4122 feet (1256 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your ride is key for this challenging loop. The best time to visit is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall, to ensure clear and dry road conditions. You'll find amenities like rest stops with shade, restrooms, and picnic tables, notably at the Pleasant Park Grange Rest Stop. Parking for the Conifer Reynolds Park road cycling loop is generally available in the Conifer and Reynolds Park areas, so plan your start accordingly.

This route is notable for its rigorous nature and the immersive experience it provides through the Colorado landscape, showcasing the region's natural beauty. While Reynolds Park itself is known for multi-use trails, this road cycling loop utilizes the surrounding roads to highlight the area's stunning scenery and provide a substantial workout. The community spirit is also a highlight, with local residents occasionally providing coolers stocked with drinks and snacks on a donation basis.