Fairmont Canal Trail – Bridge into Golden loop from North Table Mountain Park

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding gravel biking adventure near Golden, the Fairmont Canal Trail – Bridge into Golden loop from North Table Mountain Park delivers. This difficult 22.6-mile (36.4 km) route packs in 1328 feet (405 metres) of climbing, taking around 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete, making it a solid choice for experienced riders seeking varied terrain and expansive views.

What to expect on Fairmont Canal Trail – Bridge into Golden loop from North Table Mountain Park

The route offers a dynamic journey, transitioning from the wide, soft-surface gravel of the Fairmont Canal Trail, which provides great views of North Table Mountain and Golden, to the more varied terrain within North Table Mountain Park. Here, you'll encounter a mix of crushed gravel, singletrack, and even some paved sections. Expect strenuous gravel road climbs and potentially raucous, winding descents, especially if you venture onto the more technical parts of North Table Mountain. You'll pass by Blunn Reservoir and Tucker Lake, enjoying expansive views of the foothills and even the Denver skyline in the distance. This loop is best suited for experienced gravel cyclists comfortable with diverse surfaces and significant elevation changes.

Planning your visit

This loop is easily accessible from Denver and Golden, making it a convenient option for a "groad" ride. Be aware that trails can become very muddy if not frozen, particularly the Fairmount Canal Trail, so check conditions before you go. The route often passes close to Golden, ensuring amenities like cafes and pubs are never far away, and some loops even offer opportunities to stop at places like New Terrain Brewing. Parking for North Table Mountain Park gravel biking is available at various trailheads around the park.

Trail details

• Distance: 22.6 miles (36.4 km)
• Elevation gain: 1328 feet (405 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 25 minutes