The best road cycling routes around Idaho Springs

The Mount Blue Sky (Evans) to Juniper and Mestaa'Ėhehe Passes loop is a high-octane gravel cycling route that plunges you into Colorado's alpine heart. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from open ponderosa and juniper hills to deep spruce forests, eventually breaking above timberline into a treeless tundra environment. The views from the Mount Blue Sky Summit are truly expansive, stretching across the Continental Divide and the entire Front Range, often accompanied by sightings of marmots, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.

This difficult 58.3-mile (93.9 km) loop demands very good fitness, with a substantial 8080 feet (2463 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 5 hours and 56 minutes. Be prepared for thin air and highly volatile mountain weather, which can include strong winds, rain, or even snow at any time. While the route connects to the highest paved road in North America, expect varied gravel conditions, some potentially rough, and continuous climbing.

This area holds significant historical value as part of the Denver Mountain Parks system, designed to make the mountains accessible. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, which forms part of this loop, is famous for its extreme altitude and unique alpine ecosystem, showcasing hardy wildflowers and lichens. It's also the setting for the iconic Bob Cook Mount Blue Sky Hill Climb, underscoring its challenging reputation among cyclists.

The Idaho Springs to Mount Blue Sky (Evans) Summit cycling route is an iconic climb, taking you from the historic town through diverse ecosystems to the highest paved road in North America. As you ascend, you'll transition from lush forests to the stark beauty of the alpine tundra, passing stunning landmarks like Echo Lake and Summit Lake. Expect a relentless uphill battle with an average gradient of around 4.4% to 4.6%, culminating in epic switchbacks to the 14,130-foot summit, where panoramic views of the Continental Divide await.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to road conditions and seasonal closures. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (CO 5) was closed for the entire 2025 season for construction, with the road from Echo Lake Lodge to the summit scheduled to reopen on Memorial Day weekend 2026, requiring reservations. This difficult 55.0-mile (88.5 km) ride, with its 6851 feet (2088 metres) of elevation gain and estimated 5 hours and 4 minutes duration, demands excellent fitness and acclimatization to high altitude, as the thin air above 12,000 feet significantly increases the challenge.

This route is a bucket-list ride for experienced cyclists, renowned for its extreme altitude and the chance to spot wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep. It's also home to the prestigious Bob Cook Memorial Mount Evans Hill Climb, attracting competitive riders annually. The journey offers a unique experience of diverse ecosystems and unparalleled views, making it one of Colorado's premier cycling challenges for those ready to test their endurance against both gradient and the elements.

The Idaho Springs to Guanella Pass Summit road cycling route is a true Colorado classic, offering a journey from a historic mining town through dense forests to exposed alpine tundra. As you climb, the scenery transforms, culminating in spectacular panoramic views of Mount Bierstadt and Mount Blue Sky from the summit. It's a demanding ride, but the diverse landscapes and the feeling of accomplishment make it incredibly rewarding.

This difficult 47.4-mile (76.4 km) ride involves a significant 4591 feet (1399 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours. The Guanella Pass road cycling terrain includes steep pitches, with some sections reaching over 10% grade, so very good fitness is essential. Be aware that Guanella Pass Road is seasonally closed, usually from Thanksgiving to Memorial Day weekend, so check conditions before you go.

Beyond the physical challenge, this route is a designated National Forest Scenic Byway, passing through Arapaho National Forest. It's particularly famous for its vibrant aspen colors in autumn, making it a prime destination for fall cycling. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, as you ascend towards the summit, adding another layer to this memorable high-altitude adventure.

The Clear Creek Greenway offers a delightful road cycling experience, tracing the Clear Creek through a landscape that shifts from natural riverine beauty to the quaint, historic streets of Colorado's mining towns. You'll pedal past picturesque mountain views, with the chance to spot wildlife, and enjoy the unique sight of the Georgetown Loop Railroad as you approach Georgetown.

This moderate 27.7-mile (44.5 km) route involves a respectable 1672 feet (510 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete. While mostly paved and accessible, be aware of ongoing construction on a one-mile segment between US 6 (Exit 244) and Hidden Valley (Exit 243) until Spring 2027, which may require route adjustments. Multiple access points and parking options are available in towns like Idaho Springs and Georgetown.

Part of the ambitious Peaks-to-Plains trail system, the Clear Creek Greenway is more than just a bike path; it's a journey through history. It connects various segments, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical interest as it passes through old mining towns and alongside the famous Georgetown Loop Railroad. This multi-use path is excellent for road cycling, providing a unique way to explore Clear Creek County.