Historic Downtown Cripple Creek

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure from Canon City to Cripple Creek, covering a difficult 50.8 miles (81.8 km) with a significant 5254 feet (1601 metres) of elevation gain. This route takes you along the historic Shelf Road, where you will experience dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and sweeping canyon views. As you ride, look for the spectacular sight of Spiney Ridge and enjoy the journey through meadows and into canyons with incredible limestone formations, culminating in the historic gold mining town of Cripple Creek. Expect to spend around 7 hours and 9 minutes on this demanding ride.

Planning your visit requires some preparation, as the Shelf Road is primarily gravel and unpaved. You will encounter sections with potholes and washboard, and the terrain can be rugged, chunky, and even sandy in places. For the best experience and traction, we recommend using tires that are 35mm or wider. A good level of fitness is essential for this route, as you will face a sustained and significant climb throughout the journey.

This memorable touring bicycle route is an integral part of the Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway, offering more than just a ride; it is a journey through history and stunning natural beauty. The destination, Historic Downtown Cripple Creek, provides a fascinating glimpse into Colorado's gold rush past. This trail stands out in the region for its unique combination of challenging terrain and rich historical context, making it a must-do for experienced gravel riders.

Embark on the Florissant & Divide loop from Cripple Creek, a difficult touring cycling route that challenges you with 3961 feet (1207 metres) of elevation gain over 45.8 miles (73.6 km). This journey takes you through Colorado's historic mining country and past the stunning Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. You can expect a ride that blends significant climbs with scenic views, requiring about 5 hours and 9 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the route is mostly paved, some unpaved sections exist. The road from Cripple Creek down to the valley on Road 1 is in poor condition, so exercise caution there. A bike suitable for gravel or light off-road riding is a good idea, especially if you are carrying gear. Cripple Creek itself offers convenient options for eating, drinking, and staying overnight, making it a great starting point for your adventure.

This route is part of the historic Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway, offering glimpses of relics from the late 19th-century mining boom. You will pass through Historic Downtown Cripple Creek, a town steeped in gold rush history. Beyond the cycling, you can explore the ancient petrified redwood and thousands of fossils at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, or even visit the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center nearby.

Embark on a truly epic touring cycling journey from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek along the historic Gold Camp Road. This difficult route largely traces the old "Short Line" railway, winding through Pike National Forest with spectacular views of forested mountains and valleys, including the impressive View of North Cheyenne Cañon. You'll encounter a mix of dirt, gravel, and sand, with some technically demanding sections of loose gravel and deep sand, making it a rewarding challenge for experienced cyclists.

Planning for this adventure means being ready for varied conditions; you'll need to dismount and hike your bike over a steep, rocky reroute at a collapsed tunnel, and some historic tunnels are unlit, requiring a headlamp. Wider tires, like those on mountain or gravel bikes, are highly recommended for the terrain. The route is especially stunning in the fall when aspens are vibrant, but always check weather conditions before you set out.

This 82.9-mile (133.4 km) ride, with its significant 8816 feet (2687 metres) of elevation gain, is steeped in history, following the path that once connected gold mines to Colorado Springs. President Theodore Roosevelt famously praised the scenery, and you'll understand why as you pass through scenic canyons and historic tunnels. The full journey takes around 12 hours and 59 minutes, offering a deep dive into Colorado's mining past and natural beauty.