Jamestown and Ward loop via Super James Lee Hill from Pearl Street — Gravel

This challenging route, known as the Jamestown and Ward loop via Super James Lee Hill from Pearl Street, typically takes around 4.5 hours to complete for experienced cyclists. It covers approximately 80.1 km (50 miles) with over 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) of elevation gain.

The route starts from Pearl Street in Boulder. Parking can be found in various public lots and on-street parking areas around downtown Boulder, though it's advisable to check for parking restrictions and availability, especially on busy days. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.

This is primarily a hard road ride with significant elevation, but it includes notable gravel sections. The 'Super James' climb features a 2.15-mile segment of 'smooth gravel' towards the Peak to Peak Highway, which has a fairly mellow average grade of 1.3%. This gravel is generally manageable for road bikes equipped with 25mm tires or wider. Other sections, like Lee Hill Drive Climb, are paved and challenging, with grades exceeding 10% in parts.

The autumn months are particularly recommended for this ride. The scenery is stunning with vibrant fall foliage, soaring canyon walls, and clear views of the Indian Peaks. Spring and summer also offer great conditions, but autumn provides a unique visual experience.

Yes, there are excellent stops along the route. In Jamestown, you can find the Jamestown Mercantile Café, affectionately known as 'The Merc,' which is a popular spot for cyclists to refuel. Further along, the Ward General Store also offers a cyclist-friendly stop for refreshments.

The route offers stunning mountain views throughout, especially as you ascend. Climbing the gravel section of Overland Road rewards you with increasingly expansive mountain vistas. The approach to Ward through Lefthand Canyon provides picturesque scenery and clear views of the often snow-capped Indian Peaks. You might also spot deer and other wildlife along Lefthand Creek.

This route primarily traverses public roads and areas managed by Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on these roads and trails. However, always be aware of local regulations and signage, especially when passing through designated open space areas.

While the route itself is a challenging road cycling loop, dogs are generally not recommended to accompany cyclists on the ride due to the distance, elevation, and traffic. However, if you stop at towns like Jamestown or Ward, dogs on leash are usually welcome in outdoor areas of cafes or stores, adhering to local leash laws and regulations.

This loop is known for its challenging ascents. Key climbs include the notorious 'Super James,' which gains about 1,800 feet in 6 miles, with a significant gravel section. Another major climb is Lee Hill Drive Climb, a popular 4.3-mile ascent with an average grade of 5.9% and sections over 10%. You'll also navigate sections of Lefthand Canyon, which is a long and scenic climb.

Yes, the route briefly intersects with or runs parallel to several other paths. Notably, it touches sections of the B360, Left Hand OHV Trails, and the Pearl Street Mall. While these are not major intersecting trails for the cycling experience, they indicate the route's integration into the broader Boulder trail network.

Given the 'difficult' rating and mixed terrain, it's essential to be well-prepared. A road bike with tires 25mm or wider is recommended for the smooth gravel sections. Bring plenty of water, nutrition, a repair kit (including spare tubes), and appropriate clothing for varying mountain weather. A GPS device or the komoot app is highly recommended for navigation.