Lyons to Estes Park via North and South St. Vrain Ave (Highway 36 & 7) loop

This loop is considered a difficult road ride, requiring very good fitness. It features substantial climbing with approximately 1,660 meters (5,446 feet) of elevation gain and constant ascents and descents, with virtually no flat sections. Cyclists should also be prepared for breathing at elevations up to 9,000 feet.

On average, the loop takes about 4 hours and 42 minutes to complete. However, your actual duration will depend on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The roads are generally well-paved. You'll experience continuous ascents and descents throughout the ride. Be aware that a few miles on Highway 36 near Estes Park lack a shoulder, so exercise caution with traffic. Conversely, other sections of Highway 36 have a 'massive shoulder'. Highway 7 to Allenspark has almost no shoulder and can be busy, which might be challenging for less experienced riders.

The loop offers fabulous views along both Highway 7 (South St. Vrain Canyon) and Highway 36. You'll pass through the scenic South Saint Vrain Canyon, the Hall Ranch open space, and enjoy vistas of prominent peaks like Mount Meeker and Chiefs Head Mountain. The route also goes by picturesque Lilly Lake and provides a viewing area for Long's Peak before descending into Estes Park. You'll also pass by Lake Estes.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October), when weather conditions are most favorable and roads are clear of snow and ice. Always check local weather and road conditions before you go, especially for seasonal closures on Highway 7.

Lyons is a popular starting point for cyclists. You can find parking in town, which serves as a convenient launchpad for ascents into the Rockies. Specific parking areas may vary, so it's advisable to check local Lyons municipal parking options.

This specific cycling loop does not enter Rocky Mountain National Park directly, so a park entrance fee is not required for the route itself. However, if you plan to venture into the park for other activities, you would need a timed entry permit and/or a park pass. Always check the official Rocky Mountain National Park website for the latest regulations.

This is a road cycling route, primarily on highways. While dogs are generally allowed in vehicles, cycling with a dog on this challenging and busy route is not recommended for safety reasons. For dog-friendly trails, you would need to explore specific hiking trails in the area where dogs are permitted, often on leash.

Yes, while primarily a road cycling route, it does briefly intersect or run very close to sections of other paths such as the Fish Creek Trail, Lily Lake Trail, and the Storm Pass Trail.

Yes, the route passes through Estes Park, where you'll find various options for food and water. You'll also pass by Ferncliff Food & Fuel and Payphone, which can be a convenient stop. Lyons also offers amenities at the start/end of your ride.

Given the difficulty and elevation, you should bring plenty of water, energy snacks, appropriate cycling gear for varying weather conditions (layers are key), sun protection, a repair kit, and a fully charged phone. A GPS device or the komoot app with the route downloaded is also highly recommended.