The best traffic-free bike rides around Fort Collins

Fort Collins offers a great selection of routes for gravel biking. This guide features 3 carefully curated no-traffic gravel bike trails, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring a suitable option for various skill levels.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Fort Collins offer a diverse riding experience. You'll encounter a mix of gravel paths, dirt roads, and sometimes even short sections of singletrack or doubletrack, especially in areas like Lory State Park. The region's proximity to the Rocky Mountains means varied topography, from rolling hills to scenic river corridors.

Yes, there are options suitable for families looking for an easier ride. The Cache la Poudre River – Poudre Trail loop from City Park is an easy 21 km route that follows the scenic Poudre River, offering a gentle and enjoyable experience away from traffic.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Fort Collins. The weather is typically pleasant, and trails are mostly dry. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice, especially at higher elevations or on less maintained paths.

Absolutely! Many of the best gravel routes in Fort Collins are designed as loops to maximize your scenic experience. For example, the Poudre and Great Western Trail Loop is a fantastic 69 km option that combines two distinct trails for a varied and traffic-free ride.

Fort Collins' gravel trails offer stunning natural beauty. Along routes like those near the Poudre River, you'll enjoy river views and diverse wildlife. Other trails provide glimpses of iconic landmarks such as Horsetooth Rock and the vast Boyd Lake. You might even discover hidden gems like Horsetooth Falls.

For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the Poudre and Great Western Trail Loop is a great choice. This 69 km route features over 250 meters of elevation gain and is rated as difficult, offering a rewarding ride through varied terrain.

The Fort Collins area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the extensive network of trails that keep you away from traffic, and the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and Horsetooth Reservoir. The accessibility of natural areas and the variety of terrain are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Fort Collins has numerous natural areas perfect for gravel biking. Lory State Park, Reservoir Ridge Natural Area, and Soapstone Prairie Natural Area are particularly popular. These areas offer extensive trail networks with varied surfaces, ensuring a traffic-free and immersive outdoor experience amidst prairies, wetlands, and foothills.

Many trailheads and natural areas in Fort Collins offer designated parking. For routes along the Poudre Trail, you can often find parking near City Park or other access points along the river. State parks like Lory State Park also have ample parking facilities, though a park pass may be required.

While popular routes can see more activity, many of Fort Collins' natural areas and longer loops offer a sense of solitude, especially on weekdays or during off-peak hours. Exploring areas like Soapstone Prairie Natural Area or the more remote sections of the Great Western Trail can provide a less crowded experience.