The best road cycling routes in La Plata County

La Plata County offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You'll find everything from gentle, relatively flat paths along the Animas River, such as the Animas River Trail, to challenging climbs through high-altitude mountain passes in the San Juan Mountains. The region features sweeping valleys, forested areas, and scenic reservoirs like Vallecito and Lemon, providing varied experiences for all skill levels.

Yes, La Plata County has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. The Beautiful Valley loop is an easy 26.7-mile trail offering a pleasant ride through the valley. Another excellent option is the Animas River Trail, an easy 16.2-mile paved path that follows the river with minimal elevation changes.

For challenging climbs, La Plata County delivers with routes featuring significant elevation gains. The iconic Durango to Silverton (Highway 550) route, though not listed as a specific komoot tour here, is renowned for its two mountain passes and nearly 50 miles one way. Within our curated routes, the Hermosa to Coal Bank Pass route offers a substantial climb, and the Lemon Reservoir & Vallecito Reservoir via Florida Road is a difficult 47.8-mile trail with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain.

Absolutely! Many routes in La Plata County offer stunning views of water bodies. The Animas River Trail follows the Animas River, providing continuous river views. For lake and reservoir scenery, the Lemon Reservoir & Vallecito Reservoir via Florida Road route takes you past both of these beautiful reservoirs. You can also find scenic rides around Lake Nighthorse, which offers fantastic canyon views.

Yes, La Plata County offers numerous circular road cycling routes. Examples include the Beautiful Valley loop, the Smelter Mountain loop, and the Florida Mesa loop. These routes allow you to start and end at the same point, making logistics easier.

While cycling in La Plata County, you'll encounter a mix of natural beauty and historical points of interest. The Animas River Trail offers glimpses of the historic railroad. You might also pass by significant natural features like Lemon Reservoir, Lake Nighthorse, and Haviland Lake. The region's mining heritage is also visible along routes like La Plata Canyon Road.

The best months for road cycling in La Plata County are typically spring through fall, from late April to early October. During these periods, the weather is generally favorable, and mountain passes are clear of snow. While winter cycling is possible, road conditions can be challenging, especially at higher elevations, due to snow and ice.

Yes, for those who prefer paved surfaces, the Animas River Trail is a prime example. This 16.2-mile route is entirely paved and offers a smooth ride along the river. Many other road cycling routes in the county also primarily use paved roads, though some may incorporate short sections of well-maintained gravel, especially in more rural areas.

The road cycling routes in La Plata County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists consistently praise the breathtaking vistas, winding canyons, wide-open spaces, and views of the majestic San Juan and La Plata Mountains that accompany their rides. The variety of terrain, from gradual inclines to significant elevation changes, is also frequently highlighted.

La Plata County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 40 distinct tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 20 easy, 15 moderate, and 9 difficult options, ensuring there's a ride for every cyclist.

Yes, families with children will find suitable options, particularly on the easier, paved routes. The Animas River Trail is an excellent choice, offering a safe, flat, and scenic ride along the Animas River. Its paved surface and relatively short distance make it ideal for younger riders or those with trailers.

Absolutely. La Plata County is rich in history and natural attractions. While cycling, you might pass through areas with remnants of the region's mining heritage, particularly in the La Plata Mountains. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic attraction itself, runs parallel to some cycling routes, and you can even combine a ride with a train trip one way on the iconic Durango to Silverton route.

Many road cycling routes in La Plata County boast spectacular mountain views, as the region is nestled within the San Juan and La Plata Mountains. Routes like Hermosa to Coal Bank Pass offer dramatic high-altitude vistas. Even valley rides provide a stunning backdrop of the surrounding peaks, ensuring a scenic experience on almost any route.