The best cycling routes around Boulder

The Dirty Bismark loop from Bobolink Trailhead offers a dynamic touring cycling experience through Boulder's scenic foothills. You'll navigate a mix of singletrack, gravel, and dirt roads, with some mildly technical sections, all while enjoying expansive views of the Boulder Flatirons and distant snow-capped peaks like Longs Peak from elevated points such as Davidson Mesa. This difficult 23.9-mile (38.4 km) route, with its 1326 feet (404 metres) of elevation gain, provides a rewarding challenge that typically takes around 3 hours and 18 minutes.

To tackle this route, starting from the Bobolink Trailhead, you'll want a gravel or mountain bike, as about 25.6 kilometers of the trail are unpaved, and some western sections can get very muddy after rain. While the trail is generally accessible year-round, conditions can vary, so it's wise to check local reports before you go. This cycling route near Bobolink Trailhead Boulder Colorado is best suited for those with good fitness looking for a substantial ride.

What makes the Dirty Bismark loop truly special is its connection to the historic Morgul-Bismarck road cycling route, giving it a unique place in cycling lore. Despite its proximity to Boulder, the trail offers a distinct

The Gold Hill via Fourmile and Sunshine Canyons touring cycling route offers a dynamic experience through canyons and subalpine forests, culminating in the historic mining town of Gold Hill. You'll wind through diverse terrain, from paved sections to significant unpaved and dirt roads, enjoying panoramic vistas of the Rocky Mountains and glimpses of the Indian Peaks from Sunshine Canyon. This difficult 23.1 miles (37.2 km) loop, with its 3398 feet (1036 metres) of elevation gain, is a local favorite for its challenging ascents and rewarding descents.

Planning for this ride means preparing for a serious workout; the intense climbing up Fourmile Canyon, in particular, demands "requires legs of steel." You'll want wider tires, 32 millimeters or more, and low gears to handle the steep, sometimes rough and rocky, sections comfortably. The estimated duration is around 3 hours and 27 minutes, so pack enough water and snacks for a sustained effort.

What makes this route truly stand out is its blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The quaint, historic mining town of Gold Hill, largely preserved since 1859, provides a unique backdrop and a perfect spot to refuel at the Gold Hill General Store. This loop also serves as a gateway to more extensive adventures, with options to connect to other routes like the Switzerland Trail or the Peak-to-Peak Highway.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Olde Stage Road, Lefthand Canyon, and 63rd Street loop. This difficult route spans 28.3 miles (45.6 km) and climbs a significant 1564 feet (477 metres), taking you around 2 hours and 53 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse Colorado landscapes, from the rewarding views over northeast Boulder from the summit of Olde Stage Road to the scenic vistas along Lefthand Creek.

While generally rideable year-round, you should be cautious of potential ice in shaded canyon corners during colder months. Spring can bring sand to downhill stretches, so be aware of changing conditions. All segments of this loop are shared roads with moderate car traffic; for your safety, ride single file, especially in the narrower sections of Lefthand Canyon.

This loop is a classic for local cyclists, offering a true taste of the region's varied terrain. As you follow Lefthand Creek, keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer. The 63rd Street section provides a different perspective, opening up to wide-open rural views that complete this picturesque journey through Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks.

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure that spans 20.6 miles (33.2 km) and climbs 2349 feet (716 metres). This difficult route, estimated to take 2 hours and 36 minutes, offers a dynamic landscape. You will experience the open vistas of the Flatirons from the NCAR climb, transition to the shaded sections of Chapman Drive, and witness the impressive granite walls and Boulder Falls within Boulder Canyon.

This demanding loop requires good physical fitness and comfort riding in traffic, especially on Boulder Canyon Drive. To enhance your experience and avoid heavy vehicle flow, plan to start your ride early in the morning. A robust road bike with suitable gearing is recommended, or you might prefer a gravel bike due to the varied terrain, which includes both paved roads and the dirt surface of Chapman Drive.

This route is a true Boulder challenge, designed for experienced cyclists seeking a significant workout. It showcases the region's diverse natural beauty, including expansive views over Boulder Valley from Panorama Point on Flagstaff Road. You can also spot distant snow-capped peaks from the Lost Gulch Overlook, adding another layer to the scenic rewards of this ride.