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Routes
Road cycling routes
United States
Colorado
Jefferson County

Ken Caryl

The best traffic-free bike rides around Ken Caryl

4.5

(63)

4,184

riders

54

rides

No traffic road cycling routes around Ken Caryl are set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rocky Mountain foothills, characterized by striking red rock formations and extensive open spaces. The region features a diverse landscape of valleys, hills, and lakes, including Big Soda Lake and Mann Reservoir, which offer scenic routes. Many roads within the area, particularly in Chatfield State Park, are paved and well-maintained, providing suitable surfaces for road cyclists. This blend of natural beauty and varied terrain makes Ken Caryl a notable destination for road cycling.

Best no traffic road cycling routes around Ken Caryl

  • The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Wetlands View – View of Chatfield Reservoir loop from Ken Caryl, a 15.3 miles (24.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 4 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views of Chatfield Reservoir and its surrounding wetlands.
  • Another top favourite among local road cyclists is South Platte Reservoir – View from Chatfield Dam loop from Ken Caryl, a moderate 46.7 miles (75.2 km) path. This longer route provides expansive views of the South Platte Reservoir and Chatfield Dam.
  • Local road cyclists also love the View from Chatfield Dam loop from Wadsworth Blvd & W Chatfield Ave, a 12.9 miles (20.8 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 0 minutes. This easy route offers direct access to views of Chatfield Dam.
  • Road cycling around Ken Caryl is defined by Rocky Mountain foothills, red rock formations, and scenic lakes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paved paths to challenging routes with significant elevation gains.
  • The routes in Ken Caryl are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 4000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Ken Caryl's varied terrain.

Last updated: August 22, 2026

57

riders

#1.

Wetlands View – View of Chatfield Reservoir loop from Ken Caryl

24.7km

01:05

140m

140m

Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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Moderate

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Tips from the Community

Alex
December 25, 2023, South Valley Park Trailhead (south trailhead)

The South Valley Park South Trailhead is one end of the Coyote Song Trail. This area has maps, parking, and restrooms. The trailhead is a quick turnoff from W. Deer Creek Canyon Road and is very accessible.

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Chatfield State Park is a 5,300-acre park featuring a 1,400-acre reservoir. There are a bunch of different trails, ponds, and natural areas, and the majority of the main roads are paved and well-kept.

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The Chatfield Internal Trail gets right up next to the 1,423-acre lake. The majority of the trail is on dirt and gravel, but there is a tiny section of pavement when you get close to the main observation deck.

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This parking lot at the top of the dam has picnic tables and trash cans, but the biggest attraction is the view. From here you have a 360-degree view of the mountains, Downtown Denver, Castle Rock, and often a hot air balloon. If you are looking to add some speed into your ride, the Groove Subaru Team ride starts here every Saturday at 8:30am sharp. Pace is unusually 25-30mph and takes around 1.5hrs .

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The only area on road. Wide shoulder, not many cars. More cyclists than cars.

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Amazing wetlands and trees that provide refuge for beavers, snakes, and birds (such as Americas favorite, the bald eagle)!

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Beautiful and varied region

Translated by Google

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Here you'll find an excellent viewpoint over the Chatfield Reservoir.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no traffic road cycling routes are available in Ken Caryl?

Ken Caryl offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes, with over 50 routes available. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.

What kind of terrain can I expect on no traffic road cycling routes around Ken Caryl?

The no traffic road cycling routes in Ken Caryl feature diverse terrain, from easy paved paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation gains. You'll encounter striking red rock formations, the picturesque backdrop of the Rocky Mountain foothills, valleys, and extensive open spaces. Many routes utilize well-maintained paved surfaces within parks and along reservoirs.

Are there any easy, family-friendly no traffic road cycling routes in Ken Caryl?

Yes, Ken Caryl has a good selection of easy, traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for families. Approximately 22 of the available routes are rated as easy, offering gentle gradients and smooth surfaces. An example is the View from Chatfield Dam loop from Wadsworth Blvd & W Chatfield Ave, which is an easy 20.8 km ride.

What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features I can see along these routes?

Many routes offer stunning views of the Rocky Mountain foothills and local natural features. You can expect to see prominent geological features like the hogback ridge, and bodies of water such as Chatfield Reservoir and Big Soda Lake. The area is known for its red rock formations, especially near Mann Reservoir.

Are there any loop routes for no traffic road cycling in Ken Caryl?

Yes, several no traffic road cycling routes in Ken Caryl are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Wetlands View – View of Chatfield Reservoir loop from Ken Caryl and the South Platte Reservoir – View from Chatfield Dam loop from Ken Caryl.

Where can I park my car to access these no traffic road cycling routes?

Many of the no traffic road cycling routes in Ken Caryl are accessible from local parks and open spaces, which typically offer designated parking areas. For routes around Chatfield State Park, there are multiple parking lots available. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route pages on Komoot.

Is public transport available to reach the starting points of these routes?

While Ken Caryl is primarily accessed by car, some public transport options may connect to areas near major parks like Chatfield State Park or South Valley Park. It's advisable to check local RTD (Regional Transportation District) schedules for the most current information on bus routes serving the Ken Caryl area and its outdoor recreation hubs.

What is the best time of year for no traffic road cycling in Ken Caryl?

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for no traffic road cycling in Ken Caryl, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. While winter cycling is possible, be mindful of snow and ice, especially on less-trafficked paths or after storms. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

What do other cyclists say about the no traffic road cycling experience in Ken Caryl?

The no traffic road cycling experience in Ken Caryl is highly regarded by the Komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the well-maintained paved paths, the stunning views of the foothills and red rock formations, and the peaceful, car-free environment that allows for an immersive outdoor experience.

Can I find routes with significant elevation gain for a more challenging ride?

Absolutely. Ken Caryl offers challenging no traffic road cycling routes with significant elevation gain, perfect for experienced riders seeking a workout. Approximately 12 routes are rated as difficult, often ascending into the foothills and providing rewarding panoramic views. These routes typically require very good fitness.

Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the no traffic road cycling routes?

Yes, several routes pass by or offer views of notable landmarks and points of interest. You might encounter Chatfield Reservoir, Big Soda Lake, or even catch a glimpse of Denver's skyline from the Mt. Carbon Overlook. The region's unique geology, including red rock formations and the hogback ridge, also serves as a natural landmark.

Are there any routes that connect to wider regional trail networks?

Yes, Ken Caryl's extensive trail system connects to broader regional networks, significantly extending your cycling opportunities. You can access trails like the Mary Carter Greenway Trail, which offers a moderate 48.5 km path, and potentially link to the Cherry Creek Regional Trail or the Alameda Bike Path, expanding your traffic-free riding options.

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