Tips
January 17, 2024
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Cottonwood Creek Trail
5.0
(1)
38
riders
48.4km
04:08
320m
320m
This moderate 30.1-mile touring cycling route combines the gravel New Santa Fe Trail with the paved Cottonwood Creek Trail, offering diverse
2
riders
Embark on a touring bicycle adventure through the John Venezia Community Park & Cottonwood Creek Park loop, a moderate 22.2 miles (35.7 km) route that takes about 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, gaining 1132 feet (345 metres) in elevation as you pedal through a mix of developed parkland and natural beauty. Enjoy sweeping vistas of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains, particularly from John Venezia Community Park. The trail also guides you along Cottonwood Creek, offering a pleasant environment, and through Mary Kyer Park, where a serene pond and soothing waterfall provide a peaceful highlight. Expect varied terrain, including paved paths, rugged gravel, dirt trails, and even some singletrack sections, making for an engaging ride.
When planning your visit, be aware that the route features mixed surfaces. While much of the trail is smooth, you will encounter unpaved sections, including rugged gravel, dirt trails, and some singletrack along Cottonwood Creek. You might need to dismount and push your touring bicycle on certain off-road segments. Ensure your bike is well-suited for these diverse conditions to fully enjoy the journey.
This loop offers a unique blend of urban park amenities and natural creek-side environments. As you traverse the route, you might spot ducks and geese near the serene pond in Mary Kyer Park. The trail's path along Cottonwood Creek provides a refreshing natural corridor, contrasting with the more developed park areas. This combination makes the route a distinctive option for touring cyclists seeking varied scenery and terrain.
1
riders
21.4km
01:23
240m
240m
Embark on the Austin Bluffs loop for a moderate touring bicycle ride through varied landscapes. This route covers 13.3 miles (21.4 km) with a total elevation gain of 786 feet (240 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you will pass through open grasslands, unique rock formations, and peaceful pine forests. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like mule deer and foxes, and enjoy expansive views of the Colorado Springs city skyline, with Pulpit Rock offering particularly panoramic vistas of the city and Pikes Peak.
For your touring cycling adventure, you will find the paths within the Austin Bluffs Open Space are paved and well-maintained gravel. Parking is generally available at various access points around the open space, making it convenient to start your ride. While specific public transport details for this exact loop are not provided, the area is readily accessible within Colorado Springs, allowing you to plan your visit with ease.
This loop is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Austin Bluffs Open Space, showcasing why it is a popular destination for cyclists in the region. The diverse scenery and the prominent views from landmarks like Pulpit Rock make it a notable route among the many cycling options available in Colorado Springs. It offers a clear picture of the area's unique geology and ecosystems, providing a memorable outdoor experience.
Details
Informations
Distance 838 m
Uphill 20 m
Downhill 10 m
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Tuesday 5 May
7°C
-1°C
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