The best traffic-free bike rides in Denver County

Denver County offers a wide selection of traffic-free gravel bike trails, with over 40 routes available. These range from easy to challenging, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Yes, Denver County has several easy, traffic-free gravel bike trails perfect for beginners. For instance, the Blackmer Lake – Blackmer Lake Trail loop from Yale is an excellent option, offering a gentle ride around the lake with minimal elevation gain.

Absolutely. Many of Denver's car-free gravel trails are suitable for families. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Perimeter Trail is a fantastic choice, offering an easy, non-technical 22-mile loop where you can spot wildlife like bison and deer in a safe environment.

Yes, many of the best traffic-free gravel routes in Denver County are loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. The Blackmer Lake loop from University of Denver is a popular moderate option, providing scenic views and a good distance.

Denver County's traffic-free gravel trails offer diverse scenery, from urban greenways along river corridors to expansive prairie landscapes with stunning Rocky Mountain backdrops. You can expect to see various wildlife, especially in areas like the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, home to bison, deer, and prairie dogs. Trails along the South Platte River and Cherry Creek also provide opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying natural habitats within the city.

Many traffic-free gravel trails in Denver County offer access to interesting sights. For example, routes along the South Platte River can lead you near Confluence Park. You might also pass by beautiful natural spaces like Bluff Lake Park, known for birdwatching, or enjoy views of Sloan's Lake.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for traffic-free gravel biking in Denver County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. However, many trails, especially those on hard-packed surfaces like the High Line Canal Trail, are accessible year-round, weather permitting. Summer can be great, but it's best to ride in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat.

Yes, many of Denver County's multi-use paths and hard-packed gravel trails remain accessible in winter, especially after light snowfalls or on well-maintained routes. Trails like the High Line Canal Trail and sections of the Platte River Trail are often cleared or packed down, offering opportunities for winter riding. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Many of Denver County's traffic-free gravel trails are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before you go. The extensive greenway systems, such as parts of the Platte River Trail, are popular choices for riders with their canine companions.

The komoot community highly rates the traffic-free gravel biking in Denver County, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning Rocky Mountain views, the peaceful escape from city traffic, and the diverse landscapes that range from urban greenways to wildlife-rich prairies. The accessibility and variety of routes for all skill levels are also frequently highlighted.

Experienced riders looking for longer, traffic-free gravel routes will find several options in Denver County. The Platte River Trail bridge – Bridge over South Platte River loop from 10th & Osage offers a substantial distance, while the Sumac Hill Farm viewpoint – Mineral Avenue Trail loop from Orchard provides a challenging ride with significant elevation gain.