Boulder Creek Path (CU to Foothills Parkway)
Boulder Creek Path (CU to Foothills Parkway)
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Cycling
5.0
(21)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Tips
October 25, 2023
Cycling

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Boulder Creek Path (CU to Foothills Parkway)

18
riders
12.9km
00:44
50m
50m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Boulder Creek Path and Goose Creek Greenway Loop, a pleasant 8.0-mile (12.9 km) route. You will gain a gentle 174 feet (53 metres) in elevation, making it a comfortable journey that takes approximately 44 minutes. As you cycle, you'll follow the tranquil Boulder Creek, enjoying views of the iconic Flatirons in the distance and passing through the vibrant University of Colorado campus.
This popular multi-use trail is well-integrated into the city, offering straightforward access for your ride. You can find parking at various points, particularly near downtown Boulder and the University of Colorado. Be aware that due to its popularity, especially on weekends, the path can become quite busy, so plan your visit accordingly for a more relaxed experience.
The loop offers a diverse blend of urban and natural landscapes. While the Boulder Creek Path provides scenic waterside stretches, the Goose Creek Greenway guides you through commercial areas, offering a different perspective of the city. Keep an eye out for prairie dogs, which are often spotted in the eastern sections of the Greenway, adding a touch of local wildlife to your outing.

5.0
(2)
9
riders
19.0km
01:06
80m
80m
Embark on the B180 Bike Loop for a relaxed touring cycling experience, guiding you through diverse scenery from urban settings to natural waterways. You will enjoy views of downtown Boulder and the University of Colorado Boulder campus, before riding along the scenic Boulder Creek Path with glimpses of the surrounding foothills. This easy route covers 11.8 miles (19.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 276 feet (84 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the route is clearly marked with arrows, making navigation simple. The trail is predominantly paved, which means it is well-suited for road bikes and standard touring setups. You can enjoy this loop anytime of the year, and its family-friendly nature makes it an accessible option for many riders looking for a less demanding journey.
This loop stands out for its blend of city sights and natural beauty, offering a unique perspective on Boulder. As you cycle, you will transition smoothly between urban landscapes and the peaceful environment along the creek. The route provides an excellent opportunity to see some of the region's dramatic rock formations without venturing far from the city's core.

2.0
(1)
7
riders
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Gunbarrel loop, a 20.6-mile (33.2 km) route that offers a gentle 487 feet (148 metres) of elevation gain. This journey, typically completed in about 1 hour and 59 minutes, takes you from the urban charm of East Pearl Street into the natural beauty of Boulder's Front Range foothills. You will cycle alongside Boulder Creek, passing through the University of Colorado campus, and enjoy expansive views over wetlands towards the iconic Boulder Flatirons near Twin Lakes. The path is primarily smooth and paved, providing a relaxed experience for all skill levels.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as this route benefits from Boulder's extensive network of dedicated bikeways and underpasses, ensuring minimal vehicle traffic. The paths are multi-use, so you will share them with pedestrians, especially in busier sections. You can easily access amenities like parks and connections to downtown Boulder, making it convenient to start your ride. Consider an early morning or late afternoon start to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer people on the shared paths.
This loop is a fantastic way to experience Boulder's unique blend of city and nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as raptors and deer, in the open space areas you traverse. After your ride, you will find several breweries conveniently located nearby, offering a perfect spot for a post-ride refreshment. The route highlights the thoughtful integration of cycling infrastructure within the Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks.
Details
Informations
Distance 2.93 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 30 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 16 August
30°C
16°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December