Colorado Front Range Trail

This route, primarily following the High Line Canal Trail and other paved and crushed gravel paths, offers a generally smooth and flowing experience. You'll encounter mostly flat sections with some gentle inclines, making it suitable for a relaxed ride. While the broader Colorado Front Range is known for technical singletrack, this specific loop is less technical, focusing more on scenic, accessible paths.

Yes, with its moderate difficulty and relatively flat terrain, this route is very suitable for beginners and families. The paths are well-maintained, and the overall elevation gain is manageable, allowing for an enjoyable ride without overly technical challenges.

The loop offers diverse scenery, including urban parks, riparian areas, and views of water bodies. Key highlights include a View of Sand Creek, the tranquil Sand Creek at Morrison Nature Center, and expansive View of Cherry Creek Reservoir. You'll also pass by Cottonwood Creek in Cherry Creek State Park and the Village Greens South Park Pond.

Given that a significant portion of this route passes through Cherry Creek State Park, a good starting point with ample parking would be within the park itself. There are multiple access points and parking lots available throughout the park. Alternatively, you can find street parking near other sections of the High Line Canal Trail or Sand Creek Greenway that intersect the loop.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails that make up this route, including those within Cherry Creek State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

The best times to ride this loop are typically spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and the scenery is vibrant. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures and potential afternoon thunderstorms. Winter riding is possible on clear days, but some sections might be icy or muddy, especially after snow.

Since a significant portion of this route is within Cherry Creek State Park, you will need to pay a daily entrance fee or have a valid Colorado State Parks pass to access the park's facilities and trails. There are no additional permits required for mountain biking specifically on this route.

Yes, this route utilizes and intersects with several other popular trails. You'll spend a significant portion on the Colorado Front Range Trail itself, but also ride sections of the Denver Orbital Trail, Sand Creek Greenway Trail, Cherry Creek Trail, and the High Line Canal Trail. These connections offer opportunities to extend or modify your ride.

Yes, particularly within Cherry Creek State Park and along the High Line Canal Trail, you'll find various facilities. The Smoky Hill Picnic Site is a designated spot for a break. Restrooms and water fountains are also available at various points, especially within the state park and at larger park access points.

This 68-kilometer (approximately 42-mile) loop is estimated to take around 4 hours to complete for an average mountain biker. However, your actual time will vary depending on your pace, the number of stops you make for photos or breaks, and current trail conditions.

For this moderate, longer loop, we recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, a basic bike repair kit (spare tube, pump, multi-tool), sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), and a helmet. Given the length, a fully charged phone for navigation and emergencies is also a good idea.