The best gravel rides in the Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains offer a wide selection of routes for gravel biking. Our guide features over 10 curated gravel bike trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

While many routes in the Rocky Mountains are rated as difficult, there are options for less experienced riders. For example, the Pathway along the Bow River – Three Sisters Mountain Village loop from Bow Meadows is a moderate route that offers a more accessible experience. The region also features areas like Cherry Creek State Park near Denver, which provides over 10 miles of gravel and protected bike paths suitable for easy rides and wildlife viewing.

Gravel biking in the Rocky Mountains presents a diverse range of terrain. You'll encounter everything from smooth, non-technical dirt trails to hard gravel roads that demand good fitness and advanced riding skills. Many routes combine gravel sections with paved roads, traversing towering peaks, lush valleys, and high-altitude alpine tundra.

Yes, many gravel biking routes in the Rocky Mountains are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of Rundle Forebay loop from Canmore Nordic Centre Downtown Bound and the View of Rundle Forebay – Pathway along the Bow River loop from Canmore. These loops offer varied scenery and a complete experience without needing to retrace your path.

The Rocky Mountains are rich in natural beauty. While gravel biking, you might encounter crystal-clear lakes like Lake O'Hara or Lake Annette, and enjoy panoramic views of majestic peaks. The region is also home to iconic spots like the Banff Springs Hotel area, offering stunning vistas. Many trails pass through extensive forested areas and offer glimpses of the diverse ecosystems.

The best time for gravel biking in the Rocky Mountains generally spans from late spring through early autumn. During these months, trails are typically free of snow, and the weather is more favorable. However, conditions can vary significantly with elevation, so it's always wise to check local forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, especially in higher alpine areas.

Absolutely. The Rocky Mountains are a haven for wildlife, with over 60 mammal species and 280 bird species. Areas like the Kawuneeche Valley and Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge are particularly known for wildlife viewing. While biking, you might spot elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, moose, and various bird species. Early mornings or late evenings often provide the best chances for sightings.

Many popular gravel biking trailheads in the Rocky Mountains, especially those within national parks and provincial recreation areas, offer designated parking facilities. For specific routes, it's recommended to check the individual tour details on komoot or consult local park information for precise parking locations and any potential fees or restrictions.

While general gravel biking on public roads and trails often doesn't require specific permits, certain areas within national parks or protected wilderness zones might have entry fees or require permits for specific activities or overnight stays. For Rocky Mountain National Park, you may need a timed entry permit during peak seasons. It's always best to check the official websites for specific park regulations, such as nps.gov/romo, before your visit.

The gravel biking routes in the Rocky Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from more than 5 reviews. Riders often praise the expansive views, challenging terrain, and the immersive natural beauty of the region. Many appreciate the variety of routes available, from scenic loops to more demanding climbs.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are moderate options. The Pathway along the Bow River – Three Sisters Mountain Village loop from Bow Meadows is a good example of a moderate route, offering a less strenuous ride while still providing beautiful scenery. These routes are ideal for those looking for a balanced challenge without extreme difficulty.

The duration of gravel biking routes in the Rocky Mountains varies significantly based on distance, elevation gain, and your fitness level. For instance, a difficult route like the View of Rundle Forebay loop from Canmore Nordic Centre Downtown Bound, which is 54.2 miles (87.3 km), can take around 7 hours. Shorter, moderate routes might be completed in 2-4 hours. Always check the estimated duration for each specific route on komoot.

Several areas within the Rocky Mountains are renowned for their gravel biking opportunities. The region around Canmore and Fernie, for example, offers a variety of routes like the Montane Nordic Trails – Morrissey Road loop from Fernie. Rocky Mountain National Park also features iconic gravel roads like Old Fall River Road. Near Denver, Waterton Canyon and Cherry Creek State Park provide accessible gravel options.