The best road cycling routes in Clear Creek County

Clear Creek County offers over 20 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. The majority of these routes are considered difficult, with a few moderate options available for those seeking a less strenuous ride.

The prime season for road cycling in Clear Creek County is generally from late spring through early fall. High-elevation routes like the Mount Blue Sky Scenic and Historic Byway are typically open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Lower elevation paths, such as the paved Bakerville Loveland Trail segment of the Clear Creek Greenway, can be enjoyed year-round.

While many routes in Clear Creek County are challenging, the Clear Creek Greenway offers a more moderate experience, leading through river valleys. The paved Bakerville Loveland Trail, a 5-mile segment of the Greenway, provides a gentle uphill grade, making it suitable for year-round use and a good option for families or beginners.

Clear Creek County is renowned for its challenging climbs. Routes like Idaho Springs to Mount Blue Sky (Evans) Summit and Guanella Pass Summit from Georgetown feature significant elevation gains and are popular among experienced cyclists seeking a demanding ride.

Road cycling routes in Clear Creek County offer breathtaking scenery. You can expect panoramic mountain views, clear mountain lakes like Saint Mary's Lake, and vibrant fall foliage along routes like Guanella Pass. Many routes also pass through historic mountain towns such as Idaho Springs and Georgetown, offering unique insights into the region's past.

Yes, there are loop options available for road cyclists. An example is the Mount Blue Sky (Evans) to Juniper and Mestaa'Ėhehe Passes loop, which offers a challenging ride through high mountain passes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the spectacular mountain scenery, the challenge of high mountain passes, and the unique experience of riding along historic byways.

Yes, the Clear Creek Greenway is specifically designed to follow the Clear Creek, offering scenic cycling along the river and views of the Georgetown Loop Railroad. The flowing creek often helps to mask traffic noise, providing a more serene experience.

While road cycling doesn't typically go directly to the summits of all 14ers, the Idaho Springs to Mount Blue Sky (Evans) Summit route ascends to the summit of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans), which is one of Colorado's 14er peaks and the highest paved road in the Northern Hemisphere.

For the most up-to-date information on road conditions, especially for high-elevation byways like Mount Blue Sky and Guanella Pass, it's best to check official sources. You can often find this information on the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) website or by contacting the local visitor centers in Clear Creek County. For general activities and information, you can also visit visitclearcreek.com.

Yes, the Guanella Pass Scenic and Historic Byway, which can be accessed via routes like Guanella Pass Summit from Georgetown, is known for offering stunning views of clear mountain lakes and waterfalls along its fully paved 23-mile stretch.