The best traffic-free bike rides in Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

There are over 20 touring cycling routes in the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge that are designed to be traffic-free. These routes offer a variety of distances and experiences within the refuge.

Yes, the refuge offers many easy routes suitable for families and beginners. Out of the available no traffic touring cycling routes, 18 are rated as easy, providing gentle terrain and manageable distances for a relaxed ride. An example of an easy, family-friendly route is the South Platte River Trail – Valente Lake loop from Commerce City.

While many routes are paved, some sections, like parts of the Perimeter Trail, are gravel and dirt. For the most versatile experience, a mountain bike or gravel bike is recommended. If you plan to ride on unpaved sections, tires at least 40mm wide are suggested to handle varying surfaces and potential goat's head weeds.

The refuge is home to abundant wildlife, offering excellent viewing opportunities. Cyclists frequently spot bison, mule deer, white-tailed deer, raptors, and prairie dogs. Over 330 species of wildlife, including more than 280 bird species, inhabit the area, making every ride a potential wildlife encounter.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in the refuge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular circular route is the Rod and Gun Club Pond loop from Dick's Sporting Goods Park, which offers a scenic ride around the pond.

As you cycle, you can explore various natural and historical points of interest. Notable sights include Lake Ladora and Rod and Gun Club Pond. The First Creek Overlook also provides expansive views of the refuge's diverse landscapes.

The refuge is enjoyable for cycling year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are best, and winter offers a unique, quiet experience, though some trails may be affected by snow or ice.

Convenient parking is available at several locations around the refuge. You can find parking lots at 56th Avenue and Uvalda Street, 56th Avenue and Chambers Road, and 96th Avenue and Chambers Road. Bike racks are also provided at the Visitor Center, South Lake Ladora, North Lake Ladora, and the Lake Mary Learning Center.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the refuge for its peaceful, traffic-free environment, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and the sense of being immersed in nature so close to a major city. The well-maintained trails and diverse landscapes are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, for your convenience, there is a bike repair station and an air pump located at the intersection of 64th Avenue and Havana Street within the refuge. This ensures you can address minor issues and keep your tires properly inflated during your ride.

While the refuge is close to Denver, direct public transport access specifically for cyclists with bikes can be limited. It's advisable to check local RTD bus routes for stops near the refuge's entrances, but bringing your bike on public transport may require specific routes or times. Driving and parking at one of the designated lots is often the most straightforward option for cyclists.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, routes like the Clear Creek – Clear Creek Trail loop from Commerce City & 72nd offer a moderate challenge with over 50 km in distance and some elevation gain. While most routes are easy, there are 4 moderate options for cyclists looking for a bit more of a workout.