Bear Creek Lake – Big Soda Lake loop from Ken Caryl
Bear Creek Lake – Big Soda Lake loop from Ken Caryl
2.9
(27)
81
riders
Bear Creek Lake – Big Soda Lake loop from Ken Caryl
02:20
38.1km
400m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 21.2 km for 186 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
8.61 km
Alkire Greenbelt
Nature Reserve
14.9 km
Mount Carbon Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
15.0 km
View of Denver Skyline from Mt. Carbon Overlook
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Tip by
21.3 km
Bear Creek Lake
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Tip by
24.1 km
Big Soda Lake
Highlight • Lake
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38.1 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
32.4 km
3.48 km
2.01 km
156 m
101 m
Surfaces
31.3 km
5.73 km
813 m
257 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,810 m)
Lowest point (1,680 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 22 July
33°C
18°C
74 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Bear Creek Lake – Big Soda Lake loop from Ken Caryl is one of those road cycling routes that truly delivers a diverse experience. This moderate 23.6-mile (38.1 km) ride, with 1273 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete. It is an excellent choice for cyclists looking for a substantial workout and a connection with nature without venturing too far from the city, blending urban greenways with natural landscapes.
What to expect on Bear Creek Lake – Big Soda Lake loop from Ken Caryl
As you cycle this loop, you will experience a journey through varied scenery. The C-470 section offers open vistas of the Colorado foothills and the Front Range, including a notable view of the Denver Skyline from the Mt. Carbon Overlook. In contrast, the Bear Creek Trail provides a more tranquil ride through tree-lined corridors, woodlands, and meadows, where you might spot local wildlife. The route also prominently features the scenic Big Soda Lake, set against a backdrop of striking red rock formations. This moderate route requires good fitness, but the blend of environments makes the effort worthwhile for touring cyclists.
Planning your visit
Planning your ride on this popular route is straightforward, thanks to numerous access points and parking options, including within Bear Creek Lake Park. The area's cycling conditions are generally pleasant for much of the year, but spring and fall offer particularly vibrant scenery and comfortable temperatures. Consider starting your ride in the morning to enjoy the cooler air and potentially less crowded paths.
Trail details
- Distance: 23.6 miles (38.1 km)
- Elevation gain: 1273 feet (388 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 17 minutes
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