The best road cycling routes around Fort Collins
4.5
(65)
2,957
riders
149
rides
Road cycling around Fort Collins offers diverse landscapes, from flat plains to challenging mountain climbs. The region features extensive trail networks, including routes through the Cache la Poudre River Canyon and around Horsetooth Reservoir. Cyclists can explore varied terrain, encompassing prairies, wetlands, and foothills with views of the Front Range. The area provides a wide range of road cycling opportunities for different fitness levels.
Best road cycling routes around Fort Collins
- The most popular road cycling route is Bingham Hill and the Horsetooth Reservoir Dams loop, a 17.0 miles (27.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 28 minutes to complete. This moderate route features challenging climbs, rewarding descents, and scenic views of Horsetooth Reservoir.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Poudre and Spring Creek Trails Loop, a moderate 29.5 miles (47.5 km) path. This route offers scenic views along the trails with a gentle elevation gain.
- Local road cyclists also love the Carter Lake loop, a 54.4 miles (87.6 km) trail leading through Roosevelt National Forest, often completed in about 4 hours 35 minutes. This challenging loop provides extensive Front Range views.
- Road cycling around Fort Collins is defined by Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, the Cache la Poudre River Canyon, and expansive prairies. The network offers options for both leisurely rides and more demanding challenges.
- The routes in Fort Collins are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 3000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Fort Collins's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(6)
113
riders
27.4km
01:28
350m
350m
This 17.0-mile road cycling loop in Fort Collins features challenging climbs, rewarding descents, and stunning views of Horsetooth Reservoir
4.0
(1)
71
riders
47.5km
02:16
210m
210m
Cycle the Poudre and Spring Creek Trails Loop, a 29.5-mile (47.5 km) moderate road cycling route with 686 feet of elevation gain.
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5.0
(1)
42
riders
87.6km
04:36
750m
750m
Cycle the moderate Carter Lake loop, a 54.4-mile route in Roosevelt National Forest with 2474 feet of elevation gain and Front Range views.
26
riders
31.8km
01:27
160m
160m
Easy 19.8-mile road cycling loop in Fort Collins, passing New Belgium Brewery and Old Town Square with river views.
4.0
(1)
21
riders
55.3km
02:42
200m
200m
This 34.4-mile (55.3 km) moderate road cycling loop from Old Town Square to Boyd Lake State Park offers scenic views and car-free paths.
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Tips from the Community
Great view of the Big Thompson River and Loveland Greeley Canal. This part of the Big Thompson River Trail crosses the canal with a pedestrian bridge.
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New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado, is a must-stop when visiting Fort Collins. Known for its strong ties to cycling culture, and features bike-themed decor, the large brewery regularly hosts cycling events, and encourages visitors to arrive by bike. The outdoor space is a highlight, with expansive lawns, picnic tables, and a stage for live music, creating a festive environment perfect for socializing and enjoying Colorado's sunny weather. Food options at New Belgium include a rotating selection of food trucks that cater to diverse tastes, from gourmet burgers to waffles. Of course, the brewery's own beers are the main attraction, with favorites like Fat Tire Amber Ale and Voodoo Ranger IPA, as well as limited-edition and seasonal brews. The brewery tour is also a must-do when visiting the area.
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A vast urban space offering a prehistoric-themed playground, skate park, dog park, and horseshoe pits. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing break.
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New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado, is a must-stop when visiting Fort Collins. Known for its strong ties to cycling culture, and features bike-themed decor, the large brewery regularly hosts cycling events, and encourages visitors to arrive by bike. The outdoor space is a highlight, with expansive lawns, picnic tables, and a stage for live music, creating a festive environment perfect for socializing and enjoying Colorado's sunny weather. Food options at New Belgium include a rotating selection of food trucks that cater to diverse tastes, from gourmet burgers to waffles. Of course, the brewery's own beers are the main attraction, with favorites like Fat Tire Amber Ale and Voodoo Ranger IPA, as well as limited-edition and seasonal brews. The brewery tour is also a must-do when visiting the area.
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The Howling Cow Cafe in Bellvue, Colorado, is a well-loved spot known for its unique and picturesque setting on the Morning Fresh Dairy Farm, where Noosa Yoghurt is made. The cafe features popular items like the Bagel Sandwich, Root Beer Float Milk, and various espresso drinks, making it a great stop as you ride around there area. You can eat outside and, if on a more leisurely ride, take a tour of the dairy farm.
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High up on the northern edge of the steep hills and cliffs above Horsetooth Reservoir is the Skyline Picnic Area and a small gravel parking lot. This scenic spot is a great place to sit down, eat lunch, and take in the sweeping views of the reservoir.
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Bingham Hill is a short, punchy climb that is a local favorite. The hill is located northwest of Fort Collins, just north of Horsetooth Reservoir, and features a steep, 1-mile climb with an elevation gain of approximately 250 feet. The gradient reaches close to 10%, making it a hard but rewarding climb. The area's rural setting, coupled with views of the foothills and the Rocky Mountains, provides a beautiful backdrop for the ride. Bingham Hill's proximity to other popular cycling routes in Fort Collins allows it to be easily incorporated into longer rides exploring the Horsetooth Reservoir, Rist Canyon, Bellevue and Laporte, and the surrounding area
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This spot allows for views of the Big Thompson River along the Big Thompson River Trail, which is a section of the Loveland Recreation Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 130 options available. These routes cater to all skill levels, including approximately 60 easy, 65 moderate, and 10 difficult trails.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Fort Collins?
Yes, Fort Collins has numerous easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. For example, the Northeast loop and New Belgium Brewery is an easy route that offers a pleasant ride.
What are some challenging road cycling routes in Fort Collins?
For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, Fort Collins provides several demanding routes. The Carter Lake loop is a challenging 54.4-mile trail through Roosevelt National Forest with significant elevation gain and extensive Front Range views. Rist Canyon is also known as a classic long Colorado-style climb close to town.
Are there family-friendly road cycling options in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins boasts an extensive trail system that connects parks and natural areas, accommodating cyclists of all ages. Many routes feature paved, car-free paths, making them suitable for families. The Poudre River Trail is a notable scenic route that is popular for leisurely rides.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in Fort Collins?
Road cycling in Fort Collins offers diverse landscapes. You can expect stunning views of the Front Range, Horsetooth Reservoir, and the Cache la Poudre River Canyon. Routes pass through prairies, wetlands, and forests, with options like the Owl Canyon Loop providing continuous Front Range views through plains and ranchland.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Fort Collins?
The road cycling routes in Fort Collins are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, from challenging climbs to scenic, car-free paths, and the constant views of the Front Range and natural areas like Horsetooth Reservoir.
Are there any natural attractions or landmarks to see along the road cycling routes?
Yes, many routes offer access to natural attractions. You can cycle past Horsetooth Reservoir, explore areas near Fossil Creek Wetland Natural Area, or enjoy the scenic Poudre Trail. The region also features landmarks like Horsetooth Rock visible from many routes.
Are there loop road cycling routes in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins offers many excellent loop routes. Popular options include the Bingham Hill and the Horsetooth Reservoir Dams loop, the Poudre and Spring Creek Trails Loop, and the Boyd Lake State Park loop from Old Town Square.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins is a great destination for road cycling for much of the year. While winter conditions can impact some trails, spring, summer, and fall generally offer excellent riding weather. The diverse terrain means you can find suitable routes even during shoulder seasons.
Are there road cycling routes that include brewery stops in Fort Collins?
Yes, Fort Collins is known for its vibrant craft beer scene, and some routes can be planned to include brewery visits. The Northeast loop and New Belgium Brewery is an example of a route that incorporates a popular local brewery.
Where can I find more information about outdoor activities in Fort Collins?
For broader information on outdoor activities and natural areas in Fort Collins, you can visit the official tourism websites. For example, Visit Fort Collins Outdoors and Visit Fort Collins Road Biking provide additional context and resources.
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