The best traffic-free bike rides around Colorado Springs

There are over two dozen dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Colorado Springs featured in this guide. These routes range from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging excursions, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Yes, Colorado Springs offers several easy, no-traffic routes perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Evergreen Cemetery loop, which is approximately 10 km long with minimal elevation gain. The Pikes Peak Greenway Trail and the Midland Trail are also known for being smooth and scenic, connecting to downtown Colorado Springs and passing historic sites.

You can expect breathtaking scenery, from the iconic red sandstone formations of Garden of the Gods to panoramic views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Routes often wind through diverse ecosystems, offering glimpses of wildlife like deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. The region's unique blend of mountains, rolling hills, and distinctive red rocks creates a varied and beautiful backdrop for your ride.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like The Pineries Open Space loop offer significant distances and elevation gains. While not entirely traffic-free, the Pikes Peak Highway is a legendary climb that tests endurance with its steep inclines and winding roads, providing an unparalleled experience for those looking to conquer a 14,000-foot peak.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Colorado Springs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of terrain, and the opportunity to cycle amidst iconic landmarks like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak without the constant presence of vehicle traffic.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in Colorado Springs are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the popular Garden of the Gods Park loop and The Broadmoor loop, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes without retracing your path.

Many routes offer access to incredible natural landmarks. You can cycle past the towering red sandstone formations like the Three Graces rock formation, North Gateway Rock, and the Siamese Twins rock formation within Garden of the Gods Park. Other routes might bring you close to the historic Gold Camp Road tunnels or offer views of the majestic Pikes Peak.

The best time for no-traffic road cycling in Colorado Springs is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and sunny, and most routes are clear of snow. While some lower elevation trails may be accessible in winter, higher routes can be affected by snow and ice.

Yes, routes like the North Cheyenne Cañon Columbine Loop provide substantial elevation gain, making them excellent for training. The region's proximity to the Rocky Mountains means many routes naturally incorporate challenging climbs, allowing cyclists to test their fitness against the backdrop of stunning mountain vistas.

Parking availability varies by route. For popular areas like Garden of the Gods, designated parking lots are available. Many trailheads for routes like the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail or Santa Fe Trail also offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for the most accurate parking information before you head out.

While many routes are well-known, exploring less-trafficked sections of longer trail systems can reveal hidden gems. For instance, parts of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail or the Fountain Creek Regional Trail offer serene stretches away from crowds, providing a peaceful cycling experience through natural landscapes and along waterways.