The best cycling routes around Ken Caryl
4.5
(196)
4,715
riders
149
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ken Caryl are set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountain foothills, featuring diverse landscapes and extensive trail networks. The region is characterized by striking red rock formations and varied terrain, including both paved surfaces and unpaved segments. Natural features such as Big Soda Lake and Chatfield State Park are integral to the landscape, offering picturesque routes. The area also includes extensive open spaces with numerous trails winding through valleys and past hills.
Best touring cycling routes around Ken Caryl
- The most popular touring cycling route is Mann Reservoir β View from City View Drive loop from Area closed to public, a 31.3 miles (50.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 44 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through the foothills.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Mary Carter Greenway Trail β View from Chatfield Dam loop from Columbine High School, a moderate 30.1 miles (48.5 km) path. This route offers views of Chatfield Dam and the surrounding landscape.
- Local touring cyclists also love the View from City View Drive loop from Classification Natural Resource Protection, a 25.1 miles (40.4 km) trail leading through varied terrain with panoramic views, often completed in about 2 hours 59 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Ken Caryl is defined by Rocky Mountain foothills, red rock formations, and diverse trails that wind through parks and past lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paved paths to challenging routes with substantial climbs.
- The routes in Ken Caryl are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. More than 3900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ken Caryl's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
501
riders
50.3km
03:44
1,130m
1,130m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
41
riders
The City View Drive loop offers a truly challenging touring cycling experience, winding through steep hillsides on mostly paved surfaces. You'll encounter switchbacks and some unpaved sections that might test your resolve, but the reward is expansive, amazing views that stretch as far as the eye can see. This difficult 25.1-mile (40.4 km) route with 3183 feet (970 metres) of elevation gain is designed for cyclists with very good fitness, taking approximately 2 hours and 59 minutes to complete.
Planning your ride on the City View Drive loop is straightforward, with the starting point easily accessible by public transport. Along the way, you'll find the Pleasant Park Grange Rest Stop, a welcome amenity offering shade, restrooms, and picnic tables. A local resident even stocks a cooler with drinks and snacks, operating on a donation basis, which is a thoughtful touch for cyclists tackling this demanding route.
This loop is renowned as one of the best roads in the area for cycling, particularly for its strenuous climbs and breathtaking panoramic vistas. While the terrain is predominantly smooth pavement, be prepared for some unpaved segments that add to the adventure. The combination of a challenging workout and stunning scenery makes this a standout touring cycling route in Jefferson County, Colorado.
Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
28
riders
29.3km
01:42
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
27
riders
30.0km
01:45
140m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
24.7km
01:47
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Mann Reservoir has tall red rock features on the north-east side of the reservoir. The Swallow Trail will take visitors closest to the rock features. There is also parking on the north end of the reservoir.
0
0
The South Valley Park South Trailhead is one end of the Coyote Song Trail. This area has maps, parking, and restrooms. The trailhead is a quick turnoff from W. Deer Creek Canyon Road and is very accessible.
0
0
Chatfield State Park is a 5,300-acre park featuring a 1,400-acre reservoir. There are a bunch of different trails, ponds, and natural areas, and the majority of the main roads are paved and well-kept.
0
0
The climb up South Deer Creek Canyon Road can get rough near the top, but you actually get a short downhill break at the very northern end. The views back towards town are great and there are plenty of pull-offs along the side of the road, so if you need to take a break, you'll have plenty of chances.
0
0
The Chatfield Internal Trail gets right up next to the 1,423-acre lake. The majority of the trail is on dirt and gravel, but there is a tiny section of pavement when you get close to the main observation deck.
1
0
City View Drive is arguably one of the best road in the area. The smooth pavement is carved into the very steep hillside. There are amazing views as far as the eye can see and switchbacks to keep you entertained.
0
0
There is a rest stop for cyclists here with shade, restrooms, and picnic tables. There is a local lady who stocks a cooler with drinks and snacks that cyclists can help themselves to and they take donations to be able to continue this for everyone.
0
0
Deer Creek Canyon is a smooth road that winds up into the hills. Drivers up here are generally courteous and there are quite a few spots to pull out on to take a break. Once you get tot he top where it levels off, you can descend back towards Chatfield, or make it a climby day and continue on to Parmalee Gulch.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Ken Caryl?
Ken Caryl offers an extensive network of over 220 cycling routes and bike trails. These range from easy, paved paths suitable for all fitness levels to challenging rides with significant elevation gains, ensuring options for every touring cyclist.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes for beginners or families?
Yes, Ken Caryl has numerous easy, paved paths perfect for beginners or family outings. While specific easy routes aren't highlighted here, the region's diverse trail network includes many options with minimal elevation gain. You can find over 50 easy touring cycling routes on komoot for the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl?
The terrain in Ken Caryl is remarkably diverse. You'll find both smooth, paved surfaces ideal for road cycling and more challenging unpaved segments. Routes wind through the Rocky Mountain foothills, offering stunning views, and pass through prairie grass, red rock formations, and various parks.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl are designed as loops. For example, the Pleasant Park Grange Rest Stop β View from City View Drive loop from Aspen Park is a popular difficult loop, and the Hogback Hill Park loop from Hildebrand Ranch Park offers a moderate option.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Ken Caryl's routes offer access to beautiful natural features and landmarks. You can cycle past lakes like Big Soda Lake and Bear Creek Lake, or explore areas with striking red rock formations. The Walker House Ruins also offer a historical point of interest.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ken Caryl?
The touring cycling routes in Ken Caryl are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from nearly 150 reviews. Over 4000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic beauty and diverse options available.
Are there any routes that offer views of lakes or reservoirs?
Absolutely. Routes like the Big Soda Lake β Dinosaur Ridge loop from Columbine High School and the Big Soda Lake loop from Ken Caryl provide excellent views of Big Soda Lake. The region also features Bear Creek Lake and Chatfield Reservoir, offering picturesque waterside cycling opportunities.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced riders looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The Pleasant Park Grange Rest Stop β View from City View Drive loop from Aspen Park, with over 1100 meters of climbing, and the View from City View Drive loop from Classification Natural Resource Protection, with nearly 1000 meters of ascent, are excellent options for a demanding ride.
Can I find parking near the trailheads in Ken Caryl?
Yes, many parks and open spaces in the Ken Caryl area, such as Hildebrand Ranch Park, Deer Creek Canyon, and South Valley Park, offer designated parking areas for trail access. It's advisable to check specific park websites for detailed parking information before your ride.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ken Caryl?
Ken Caryl offers great cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, so early morning rides are often preferred. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on some trails, especially at higher elevations.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the touring cycling routes for a break?
While specific cafes and pubs directly on the trails are not listed, the Ken Caryl community and surrounding areas offer various establishments where you can stop for refreshments. Many trailheads are located near residential and commercial zones, making it convenient to find places to eat or drink.
Most popular attractions around Ken Caryl
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
