The best road cycling routes in Arapahoe County
4.5
(72)
4,210
riders
118
rides
Road cycling in Arapahoe County, Colorado, features an extensive network of trails traversing diverse natural landscapes. The region is characterized by significant river corridors, vast open spaces, and large reservoirs like Cherry Creek Reservoir. Cyclists can experience varied terrain, from flat paved paths along waterways to routes with moderate elevation gain, often with views of the Rocky Mountains. The county's trail system connects urban areas with rural settings, providing a mix of environments for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.7
(7)
294
riders
51.2km
02:48
300m
300m
This 31.8-mile moderate road cycling loop in Denver offers diverse scenery along the Bear Creek, C-470, and Mary Carter Greenway trails.
10
riders
60.7km
03:07
380m
380m
Cycle the moderate 37.7-mile Cherry Creek and Aurora Reservoirs Loop for scenic paved paths, mountain views, and diverse lakeshore scenery.
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9
riders
37.3km
01:54
210m
210m
Road cycle the easy 23.2-mile Piney Creek and Cherry Creek Trail Loop, enjoying diverse scenery and views of Cherry Creek State Park.
4.5
(2)
5
riders
50.6km
02:33
370m
370m
This 31.5-mile moderate road cycling loop combines the C-470 Bikeway and Mary Carter Greenway, offering varied scenery and river views.
5.0
(3)
223
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.3
(3)
114
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(2)
209
riders
49.4km
02:15
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
62
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
90
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.5
(2)
62
riders
40.4km
02:08
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Arapahoe County
Road Cycling Routes around Bow Mar
Road Cycling Routes around Sheridan
Road Cycling Routes around Englewood
Road Cycling Routes in Cherry Creek State Park
Road Cycling Routes around Columbine Valley
Road Cycling Routes around Littleton
Road Cycling Routes around Four Square Mile
Road Cycling Routes around Centennial
Road Cycling Routes around Aurora
Road Cycling Routes around Cherry Creek
Tips from the Community
Cottonwood Creek runs out of Cherry Creek Reservoir and continues south. You cross the creek on several occasions on bridges while following the bike path.
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Nice ride, non biting nats on the south side of the late but only occasionally
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Washington Park, in Denver, Colorado, is a 155-acre urban park that features two lakes, Smith Lake and Grasmere Lake, and a 2.6-mile jogging and biking loop as well as connecting trails to other major bike paths in the area. There are also open green spaces, and well-maintained flower gardens, including a replica of George Washington’s Mount Vernon garden. Additional facilities include tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas, and the historic boathouse by Smith Lake that serves as a popular venue for events.
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Empower Field at Mile High, often called Mile High Stadium, is Denver’s iconic sports venue and home to the NFL’s Denver Broncos. Located near downtown, the stadium sits 5,280 feet above sea level, giving it its name. Opened in 2001, it replaced the original Mile High Stadium and can accommodate over 76,000 fans. The stadium hosts football games, concerts, and other large-scale events and features panoramic views of Denver and the Rocky Mountains. Outside, the "Bucky the Bronco" statue symbolizes the team and its history.
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Washington Park, in Denver, Colorado, is a 155-acre urban park that features two lakes, Smith Lake and Grasmere Lake, and a 2.6-mile jogging and biking loop as well as connecting trails to other major bike paths in the area. There are also open green spaces, and well-maintained flower gardens, including a replica of George Washington’s Mount Vernon garden. Additional facilities include tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas, and the historic boathouse by Smith Lake that serves as a popular venue for events.
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The Cottonwood Creek Wetlands are located within Cherry Creek State Park near Denver, Colorado. This area features a mix of wetlands and riparian habitats, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife, especially bird species. During wet springs, the wetlands attract migratory birds like the White-faced Ibis, offering birdwatchers unique viewing opportunities. The wetlands are accessable via the Cherry Creek Trail and are also near the Suhaka Model Airfield and the Prairie Loop Nature Trail.
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Cherry Creek State Park, in Denver, Colorado is a large, popular park right in the heart of the city. There is an 880-acre reservoir where you can boat, fish, paddleboard, and swim. The park has over 35 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and the popular Cherry Creek Trail runs right through it, connecting the park with other locations and trails in the area. Facilities include multiple parking areas and trailheads, picnic areas, restrooms, a marina, and an off-leash dog area.
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Great stop on the Platte River Trail, good coffer, place to sit and relx
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Arapahoe County?
Arapahoe County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 120 tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Arapahoe County?
You can expect diverse terrain, ranging from flat paved paths along river corridors like the South Platte River to routes with moderate elevation gain. Many rides offer scenic views of the Rocky Mountains, open grasslands, and large reservoirs such as Cherry Creek Reservoir.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while road cycling in Arapahoe County?
Road cycling in Arapahoe County provides opportunities to see significant natural features. You can ride along the South Platte River, explore areas around Cherry Creek Reservoir, or pass through the Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve, known for its diverse habitats and mountain views.
Are there options for beginners or easy road cycling routes in Arapahoe County?
Yes, Arapahoe County has over 30 easy road cycling routes. An example is the Piney Creek and Cherry Creek Trail Loop, which is 23.1 miles (37.3 km) and leads through varied terrain around Cherry Creek.
Are there challenging road cycling routes in Arapahoe County?
While many routes are moderate, there are 13 routes classified as difficult for those seeking a greater challenge. These routes often feature more significant elevation gains and longer distances.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in Arapahoe County?
Absolutely. Many popular routes in Arapahoe County are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bear Creek, C-470 and Mary Carter Greenway Loop and the Cherry Creek and Aurora Reservoirs Loop.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Arapahoe County?
The road cycling routes in Arapahoe County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trails, scenic views, and the variety of terrain available.
Are there family-friendly road cycling routes in Arapahoe County?
Yes, many of the paved paths along river corridors and around reservoirs are suitable for families. These routes often have gentle gradients and provide a safe environment for riders of all ages. The extensive trail network ensures connectivity between different natural areas.
Are there road cycling routes with good parking access?
Many trailheads in Arapahoe County, especially those within state parks like Cherry Creek State Park or along major greenways, offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information.
Are there places to stop for coffee or amenities along the routes?
Yes, some routes pass by or are close to amenities. For instance, the Nixon's Coffee House – Confluence Park loop from Littleton - Mineral route includes a stop at Nixon's Coffee House. Many routes connect urban areas with rural settings, providing access to cafes and other services.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Arapahoe County?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Arapahoe County, with mild temperatures and less chance of snow. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially during transitional seasons.
Can I access road cycling trails in Arapahoe County using public transport?
Arapahoe County's extensive trail network connects various communities, and some trailheads or access points may be reachable via public transport options. It's recommended to consult local public transportation maps and schedules to plan your access.
Most popular routes in Arapahoe County
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