The best cycling routes in Gunnison County

Gunnison County offers a diverse selection of over 20 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 4 easy, 10 moderate, and 6 difficult options, ensuring there's a ride for every cyclist.

You'll encounter a wide range of terrain, from smooth paved roads to extensive gravel paths and dirt roads. The region is renowned for its vast gravel network, which makes up over 35% of Colorado's total gravel roads. You can cycle through sagebrush deserts, alpine environments, and dense national forests, offering varied scenery and challenges.

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. One excellent option is the Peanut Lake and Slate River Road from Crested Butte, which offers a gentle ride with beautiful views. Another accessible choice is the Mt. Crested Butte Rec Path, providing easy access to the vibrant town of Crested Butte.

Gunnison County is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle through the expansive Gunnison National Forest, experience the dramatic landscapes near the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, or ride around the scenic Taylor Park Reservoir. Specific highlights include Beaver Lake, Lake Irwin, and the majestic Mount Crested Butte. Routes like the Almont to Jacks Cabin Cutoff Road gravel take you directly through the national forest.

Gunnison County offers an extended cycling season, typically from April well into October. The lower elevations provide excellent riding conditions even when higher mountain passes might still be snow-covered. Summer and early fall are particularly popular for enjoying the full range of landscapes, including the vibrant wildflowers around Crested Butte.

Yes, you can find several circular routes for touring cycling. For example, the Downtown Crested Butte – Crested Butte Downtown loop offers a moderate ride around the town. Another option is the Peanut Lake – Baxter Gulch Trail loop, which provides a scenic moderate ride starting from the Alien Shack Trailhead.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Gunnison County. Cyclists frequently praise the region's extensive and diverse gravel road network, the stunning mountain views, and the variety of routes that cater to all abilities. The vibrant atmosphere of towns like Crested Butte and the natural beauty of areas like the Gunnison National Forest are also often highlighted.

Absolutely. The Taylor Park Reservoir via Taylor Park River Road gravel route is a moderate 24.9 km ride that takes you to this beautiful reservoir, known as a 'big mountain playground' at 9,300 feet, offering stunning views and opportunities for other outdoor activities.

Yes, Gunnison County is ideal for routes that blend gravel and paved sections. Many touring routes utilize the extensive gravel road network while connecting to towns or scenic byways. The region's reputation as a gravel biking epicenter means you'll find endless possibilities for mixed-surface touring, such as the 222-mile 'Sage & Saddles' loop mentioned in regional research, which combines both types of roads.

While cycling directly into the wilderness areas of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is prohibited, some sections near the park offer scenic drives and views that can be incorporated into touring cycling. The dramatic and deep geological formations of the canyon are a marvel to behold from nearby vantage points.

Gunnison County has a strong selection of moderate touring routes. Besides the popular Mt. Crested Butte Rec Path, you could try the Gunnison to Ohio Creek Road gravel route, which is a 36.8 km ride. Another great option is the Middle and Lower Cement Creek Trail, offering a 17.3 km journey through scenic landscapes.

For specific information regarding permits for backcountry biking or any restrictions within the Gunnison National Forest, it's best to consult the official U.S. Forest Service website or local ranger stations. For areas like the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness, managed by the BLM, you can find more details on their official site: blm.gov.