The best traffic-free bike rides in Clear Creek County

Clear Creek County offers 11 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 1 easy, 3 moderate, and 7 difficult options, providing diverse challenges for cyclists.

The prime season for touring cycling in Clear Creek County is typically from late May to early October, weather permitting. During this period, roads like the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway are usually open. Be prepared for rapid temperature changes and varying weather conditions, even in summer, due to the high altitudes.

Yes, for a gentler ride suitable for families, consider sections of the Clear Creek Greenway Trail. While still under development, accessible paved sections like the Bakerville Loveland Trail (BLT) offer a relatively flat experience alongside Clear Creek. The Scott Lancaster Memorial Trail is another mostly flat and smooth paved path, and the Silverdale Trail provides an easy, family-friendly ride with rolling streams and majestic views.

Clear Creek County's routes offer breathtaking alpine views and diverse landscapes. You can experience dramatic elevation changes, from forests to alpine tundras. Notable highlights include the summit of Mount Blue Sky (Evans), the highest paved road in North America, and the spectacular vistas from Loveland Pass. Other prominent peaks like Grays Peak and Mount Bierstadt Summit are also in the area, offering stunning backdrops.

Yes, there are circular routes designed for touring cyclists. One example is the Moffat Tunnel, Tolland & Rollinsville loop from Black Hawk trailhead, which offers a substantial ride through varied terrain. Another option is the Yankee Hill, Jumbo Mountain & Tolland loop from Lake Quivira, providing a challenging circular tour.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Echo Lake to Mount Blue Sky (Evans) Summit route is a demanding climb to over 14,000 feet. Another difficult option is the Idaho Springs to Silver Lake and Lake Quivira route, which features significant elevation gain.

Access points and parking vary by route. For routes like the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, you can often find parking near Echo Lake. For sections of the Clear Creek Greenway Trail, various trailheads along its path, such as near Bakerville or Silver Plume, offer access. Historic towns like Idaho Springs and Georgetown also serve as good starting points with available parking for exploring nearby routes.

Yes, Clear Creek County is rich in mining history. The charming historic communities of Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Empire, and Silver Plume are often accessible from or near cycling routes. The Georgetown Loop Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge railway, offers scenic rides and tours of the Lebanon Silver Mine, and can be accessed by cyclists via the Clear Creek Greenway Trail connecting the Silver Plume Depot, Georgetown Loop Overlook, and Devil's Gate Station.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging high-altitude climbs, the stunning alpine scenery, and the sense of accomplishment from conquering iconic mountain passes. The quiet, traffic-free sections are particularly appreciated for their immersive natural experience.

Yes, many routes in Clear Creek County involve significant elevation gain, with some reaching over 14,000 feet. The thin air above 12,000 feet makes cycling more demanding, and rapid temperature changes are common. It's crucial to acclimatize, stay hydrated, carry extra layers, and be prepared for all weather conditions, even in summer. Always check current weather and road conditions before heading out.

Yes, for a moderate challenge, the Montezuma Road route offers a balanced experience with manageable elevation changes and a good distance for a solid touring ride.