Bear Creek, C-470 and Mary Carter Greenway Loop

The full loop is about 32 miles (51 km) long. For a road cyclist, it generally takes around 2 hours and 47 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop.

This loop is rated as moderate. While sections like the Mary Carter Greenway are mostly flat, the C-470 Bikeway includes rolling hills and a significant climb up to Mount Carbon and Chatfield Dam, contributing to an overall elevation gain of about 780 feet (238 meters).

The trail is part of a larger network, so there are multiple access points. While specific parking lots aren't detailed, many parks along the Mary Carter Greenway, Bear Creek Trail, or near the C-470 Bikeway offer public parking. Look for access points near River Run Park or other trailheads in the area.

The loop primarily features fully paved, smooth concrete paths, making it ideal for road cycling. You'll find a mix of flat sections, especially along the waterways, and rolling hills with some climbs on the C-470 portion.

The scenery is quite diverse. The Mary Carter Greenway offers picturesque views of lush meadows, shimmering lakes like South Platte Reservoir, and the South Platte River. The Bear Creek Trail meanders through open parkland. The C-470 Bikeway provides open views of the Colorado foothills, though it parallels the interstate.

The trail is enjoyable for cycling during most of the year, especially in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions can vary seasonally, so checking the weather forecast before you go is always a good idea.

Yes, you'll pass several points of interest. The route goes by South Platte Reservoir and along the South Platte River. You'll also go under the Bear Creek Underpass. For a quick stop, Nixon's Coffee House is a highlight along the way.

While the Mary Carter Greenway and other sections are popular for walking, the primary focus of this loop is road cycling on paved paths. Dogs are generally allowed on leash on most multi-use trails in the Denver area, but always check local park regulations for specific sections you plan to visit.

No, you do not need specific permits or pay entrance fees to cycle the Bear Creek, C-470 and Mary Carter Greenway Loop. It's part of the public trail system.

Yes, rest stops like River Run Park, located along the Mary Carter Greenway, offer amenities such as restrooms, drinking fountains, and even repair stands for cyclists.

Yes, this loop is a significant part of the Denver metro trail system. It connects to a larger network of trails, including sections of the Colorado Front Range Trail, 470 Trail, Bear Creek Trail, and Mary Carter Greenway Trail, among many others.

Many cyclists recommend riding the loop counter-clockwise. This allows for an uphill ride on the more scenic Bear Creek Trail and a generally downhill trend on the C-470 Bikeway, which can be less scenic due to paralleling the interstate.