Loveland Recreation Trail

The trail is primarily a paved, multi-use path that encircles the city of Loveland. While mostly paved, you might encounter some small unfinished sections on the north end and a gravel section on the south end. It's generally wide, easy to follow, and mostly flat with some small hills. You'll experience transitions from twisty, tree-covered riverside areas to wide-open, exposed sections.

Yes, this trail is generally considered easy and is an excellent choice for beginners and families. It's rated as an 'Access Trail or Doubletrack Rate' with no significant obstacles and mostly flat sections, making it ideal for recreational cycling rather than technical mountain biking.

You can expect diverse scenery as the trail passes through at least seven parks and open space areas, including Boyd Lake State Park. It follows the Big Thompson River corridor, runs alongside irrigation canals, and traverses prairies and wetland meadows. You'll also get views of the mountains and connect to various neighborhoods and downtown Loveland.

Absolutely! A notable highlight is the View of Boyd Lake. The trail also connects to numerous parks, such as Fairgrounds Park, which offers amenities like drinking fountains, restrooms, picnic areas, a sprayground, and a skate park.

The trail connects to numerous parks and urban destinations around Loveland, offering various parking options. Since it's a comprehensive loop, you can typically find parking at many of the parks it passes through, such as those within Boyd Lake State Park or Fairgrounds Park.

Yes, the trail features a comprehensive loop design that completely encircles the city of Loveland. The full loop is approximately 22 miles (35.4 km) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete by bike, though this can vary based on your pace and stops.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Boyd Lake Trail, Westside Trail, North Trail, Civic Center Trail, Big Thompson River Trail, and Grasslands Trail, among others, integrating into a broader network of paths.

While the trail itself is generally dog-friendly, specific regulations may apply in certain parks or open spaces it passes through. Always keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures for cycling. Summer can be warm, especially in exposed sections, so an early morning or late afternoon ride is often best. Winter rides are possible, but check conditions for ice or snow.

Access to the Loveland Recreation Trail itself does not typically require a permit or fee. However, if you access the trail through Boyd Lake State Park, you will need to pay the state park entrance fee or have a valid Colorado State Parks pass.

Boyd Lake State Park requires an entrance fee per vehicle or a valid Colorado State Parks pass. Within the park, standard state park regulations apply, including rules for pets (leashed), boating, fishing, and camping. Always check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the most current information on fees and regulations.