The best cycling routes in La Calera

La Calera offers over 20 touring cycling routes, primarily featuring challenging terrain through the mountainous Eastern Andes. These routes are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars.

Touring cycling in La Calera is predominantly challenging, with 20 out of 24 routes rated as difficult. Riders should expect significant elevation changes and high-altitude landscapes. There are also 4 moderate routes available, but no easy options for touring cyclists.

Given the mountainous terrain and significant elevation changes, most touring cycling routes in La Calera are rated as difficult or moderate. There are no routes specifically categorized as easy, so families with young children or those seeking very gentle rides may find options limited. However, experienced cycling families might enjoy some of the shorter moderate routes.

You'll experience diverse landscapes, from protected river zones to challenging summit climbs. Routes traverse hills and valleys, often near the Chingaza National Natural Park, offering views of high-altitude plains and mountain passes.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in La Calera are designed as loops. For example, you can explore the Guasca Main Square – Guasca loop from Carulla, which is a challenging 34.8-mile (56.0 km) path through varied terrain, or the shorter Plaza de La Calera – Patios Summit loop from Zona 5, covering 16.9 miles (27.2 km) through summit areas.

Several routes pass by significant points of interest. You can find routes that lead to Patios Summit or offer views of Monserrate Hill. The region also features the Alto de Chingaza, a prominent summit near some routes.

The best time for touring cycling in La Calera generally aligns with the drier seasons to avoid heavy rainfall, which can make high-altitude routes more challenging. Typically, the months from December to March and July to August offer more stable weather conditions, though mountain weather can be unpredictable year-round.

Due to the high-altitude and mountainous terrain, weather can change rapidly. It's advisable to dress in layers, including a windproof and waterproof outer shell. Even on sunny days, temperatures can drop, especially at higher elevations or during descents. Gloves, a helmet, and appropriate cycling footwear are also essential.

Yes, some routes venture towards the vicinity of Chingaza National Natural Park. For instance, the Plaza de La Calera – Alto de Chingaza loop from La Calera is a challenging 36.1-mile (58.1 km) route that takes you towards the Alto de Chingaza summit area, offering a taste of the park's surrounding landscapes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the challenging mountain passes, the stunning high-altitude plains, and the unique experience of cycling through protected river areas. The diverse terrain and significant climbs are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

While specific parking areas are not detailed for every route, many touring cycling routes in La Calera start from towns or established points like 'Zona de protección del Río Teusacá' or 'Carulla' in Guasca, and 'Zona 5' in La Calera. These locations typically offer public parking options, though availability may vary. It's recommended to check local parking regulations upon arrival.

Many routes either start or pass through towns like La Calera and Guasca, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and shops to refuel. For example, the Guasca – Guasca Main Square loop from Altamar begins and ends in Guasca, providing opportunities for refreshments. However, on more remote sections, services may be sparse, so it's wise to carry sufficient water and snacks.