The best traffic-free bike rides in La Plata County

La Plata County offers nearly 30 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These include 7 easy, 12 moderate, and 10 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for various skill levels.

The region boasts an average of 300 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for cycling much of the year. Spring through fall generally offers the most pleasant conditions. The Animas River Trail, being paved, can often be enjoyed year-round, weather permitting.

Yes, the Animas River Trail is an excellent choice for families. This easy, 16.5-mile paved route follows the Animas River through Durango, offering scenic views and convenient access to the city without vehicle traffic.

La Plata County's no-traffic routes traverse diverse landscapes. You'll find high-altitude experiences in the La Plata Mountains, scenic river paths along the Animas, and routes through the San Juan National Forest. Expect sweeping valleys, meandering streams, and old-growth forests, with many routes offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. For a moderate challenge, consider the Dry Fork Loop in the San Juan National Forest. For a more difficult and longer ride, the Jones, Pinkerton, Dutch, Hermosa Creek Loop provides a substantial challenge with significant elevation gain.

Many routes offer breathtaking views. For instance, the La Plata Canyon Road (part of some routes) ascends into the high country with scenic vistas and wildflowers. You can also find highlights like Raider Ridge Overlook, or passes like Kennebec Pass and Coal Bank Pass, which provide expansive mountain panoramas.

The routes vary significantly in difficulty. You'll find 7 easy routes, such as the paved Animas River Trail. Moderate options, like the Powerline, Skyline, & Sugar Trail loop, offer more challenge. For experienced cyclists, difficult routes like the Black Hawk Pass via Colorado Trail involve significant elevation gains and technical sections.

Cycling on car-free routes, especially those within the San Juan National Forest or along river corridors, increases your chances of spotting local wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, various bird species, and smaller mammals, particularly during dawn and dusk.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring cycling in La Plata County, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's extensive trail network, the stunning mountain scenery, and the peaceful, car-free environment that allows for immersive outdoor experiences.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes that ascend into the La Plata Mountains offer significant elevation gains and high-altitude experiences. The La Plata Canyon Road, for example, gains over 2,800 feet over approximately 9.25 miles, providing a demanding ride with spectacular views.

Many routes, especially those originating near Durango, offer convenient access. The Animas River Trail, for instance, has multiple access points within the city. For routes in the San Juan National Forest or near mountain passes, designated trailheads or forest service roads typically provide parking. Specific parking details are often available on individual route pages.