The best cycling routes in Larimer County

Larimer County offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 240 options recorded on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, including 140 easy, 65 moderate, and 35 difficult tours.

Larimer County's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, ranging from flat plains and river corridors to challenging mountain ascents. You'll find extensive paved trail networks, as well as routes that traverse foothills and open ranchland, offering constant views of the Front Range and dramatic transitions towards the Continental Divide.

Yes, Larimer County has many family-friendly options, particularly among its extensive network of paved trails. Routes like the Poudre River Trail are easy and mostly paved, following the Cache la Poudre River and offering scenic views suitable for all fitness levels. The Loveland Recreation Trail Loop is another easy, paved option with scenic views of Boyd Lake.

Many routes in Larimer County are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Popular options include the Loveland Recreation Trail Loop, which is an easy 31.4 km ride, and the Spring Creek, Fossil Creek, and Power Trail Loop in Fort Collins, an easy 34.3 km route. For a more challenging experience, the Old Fall River Road & Trail Ridge Road loop offers a difficult 47.6 km ride with significant elevation gain.

Larimer County offers breathtaking scenic views, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to expansive plains and tranquil river corridors. Routes often feature views of large reservoirs like Horsetooth Reservoir, and you can enjoy near-constant vistas of the Front Range. The Lake Estes and Fish Creek Loop provides beautiful lake and mountain views, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists, Larimer County offers several challenging routes, particularly within Rocky Mountain National Park. The iconic Trail Ridge Road is a difficult 66.7 km route with significant elevation gain, reaching high altitudes and offering stunning views. Another demanding option is the Old Fall River Road & Trail Ridge Road loop, a 47.6 km ride that also presents a substantial climb.

Larimer County's touring cycling routes pass by or provide access to several natural landmarks and attractions. You can cycle near Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and Sprague Lake. Many routes also offer views of Rocky Mountain National Park, and you can experience the famous Trail Ridge Road, known for its high-altitude cycling and panoramic vistas.

The touring cycling experience in Larimer County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the challenging mountain passes to the accessible paved trails, and the constant views of the Front Range. The variety of routes catering to all skill levels is also a frequently highlighted positive aspect.

Yes, the Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area offers unique guided historical bike tours known as 'Pedaling the Poudre™'. These tours explore landmarks and landscapes related to water development and the history of Northern Colorado. You can find more information about these tours on the Poudre Heritage Alliance website.

Larimer County is generally e-bike friendly, particularly on its extensive network of paved trails. The region's commitment to maintaining its trail system includes provisions for e-bikes, making it an accessible destination for a wider range of cyclists.

Larimer County boasts a significant network of regional paved trails designed for various users, including cyclists. These multi-use paths connect parks, open spaces, and natural areas. For detailed information on these trails, you can visit the Larimer County Natural Resources website.

Larimer County offers cycling opportunities throughout much of the year, but the best time largely depends on the type of route you plan to tackle. Lower elevation paved trails are often accessible for longer seasons. For high-altitude routes like those in Rocky Mountain National Park, the summer and early fall months (typically June through September) are ideal, as roads are clear of snow and weather conditions are generally more favorable.