Pueblo to Beulah loop

The Pueblo to Beulah loop is approximately 91.1 km (56.6 miles) long. For a racebike, it typically takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

The route predominantly features well-paved surfaces, making it generally easy to ride. However, some variations of the loop can include unpaved sections. You'll experience a gentle rolling climb from Pueblo towards the foothills, passing ranches. A significant climb occurs on CO-78/Twelve Mile highway from Beulah to CO-165, which is notably the last unpaved highway in Colorado and experiences minimal traffic. The Carhart Trail segment, if included, offers mostly moderate terrain.

You can expect big views throughout the ride. The route offers vibrant aspen groves, especially along CO-78 and around Davenport Campground during autumn. Near Beulah, within Pueblo Mountain Park, you'll find pine forests, meadows, and stunning rock formations. Specific viewpoints provide panoramic vistas, including views of Devil's Canyon and the beautiful Beulah Valley. The Carhart Trail descent is known for its "big swooping S curves through ponderosa pines".

Autumn is particularly vibrant for this route, with aspen groves displaying their colors along CO-78 and around Davenport Campground. Spring and early summer also offer pleasant conditions before the peak heat of summer. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While specific parking areas for the start of the loop aren't detailed, Pueblo offers various public parking options. You can typically find parking in or around Pueblo to begin your ride. Consider starting near the Runyon Lake area for convenient access to the initial segments of the route.

Yes, the route passes by several points of interest. You'll encounter Runyon Lake near Pueblo. The ride also incorporates sections of the Colorado Front Range Trail and offers views of the scenic Beulah Valley. The area also has historical significance, with interpretive signage at Davenport Campground and along Squirrel Creek Canyon, which was the country's first USFS recreation area.

This 91.1 km loop is classified as a "Moderate road ride" and requires "Good fitness." While it's predominantly paved, the 850 meters (2,788 feet) of elevation gain, including a significant climb on CO-78/Twelve Mile highway, means it might be challenging for absolute beginners. Riders should have a reasonable level of fitness and experience with longer distances and climbs.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll find it overlaps with parts of the Arkansas River Multi-Use Path, the Colorado Front Range Trail, and the ADT - Colorado B - P - Seg 1. Smaller segments also touch the TransAmerica Trail (Colorado), Phelps Creek Multi-Use Path, and Fountain Creek Multi-Use Path.

As a road cycling route, the primary focus is on paved roads and multi-use paths. While dogs are generally allowed on leash in public areas, specific rules for dogs on bikes or in trailers may vary. Always ensure your dog is safe and comfortable, and check local regulations for any parks or specific trail segments you might enter, such as Pueblo Mountain Park.

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required for cycling the main Pueblo to Beulah loop on public roads and multi-use paths. However, if you plan to extend your trip into areas like Pueblo Mountain Park or utilize facilities like Davenport Campground for an overnight stay, there might be fees associated with camping or specific recreational activities within those areas.

The town of Beulah, described as a "wonderful hamlet," offers amenities where you can likely find food and water. It's always advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the longer stretches between towns or services, as the route passes through more rural areas with ranches.

For those interested in an extended adventure, the loop can be undertaken as a bikepacking overnighter, with camping available at the historic Davenport Campground. Also, be aware that the significant climb on CO-78/Twelve Mile highway from Beulah to CO-165 is on Colorado's last unpaved highway, which experiences minimal traffic, offering a unique riding experience.