Colorado on Two Wheels: Cycling in the Centennial State

Many Colorado vacations begin in the state’s capital and metropolitan gateway, Denver. Get acquainted with the “Mile High City” by cruising extensive bike lanes and paths that connect vibrant neighborhoods. Bike from downtown into nature along the Bear Creek Trail to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre. The South Platte Trail weaves through the city and reveals both cityscapes and green spaces. Switch to four wheels and cruise the South Platte River Trail Scenic Byway, Colorado’s shortest scenic drive. Another cycling paradise, the Grand Valley is about four hours west of Denver near the state’s border with Utah. Just outside Grand Junction, explore the rugged landscapes of the region via the winding roads of Colorado National Monument. Stop at 19 scenic overlooks to see incredible monoliths and the verdant valley below. Mountain bikers flock to small-town Fruita, with its hundreds of kilometers of well-maintained trails and views of the storied Book Cliffs. More mountain thrills await in Colorado Springs, about an hour south of Denver. Experienced road cyclists can take on the scenic but harrowing challenge of cycling down the Pike’s Peak Highway from the summit of one of the USA’s tallest mountains. Nearby, sign up for a guided electric bike tour through the enchanting red rocks and desert foliage of Garden of the Gods; it’s a more relaxing ride – but no less gorgeous.

Embrace the chill of winter on two wheels with fat biking, a newer take on snow exploration for cyclists, which was pioneered in and around Colorado. Fat bikes have extra-wide low-pressure tires that allow riders to glide more effortlessly over snow and ice. From Telluride to Steamboat Springs, many of Colorado’s popular winter resorts are becoming fat bike destinations. Crested Butte’s Lower Loop, a popular spot for biking, hiking and wildflower viewing in the warmer months, is ideal for fat biking when snow falls. Crested Butte also hosts the annual Alley Loop Fat Bike Race as part of its famed skiing competition, the Crested Butte Alley Loop Nordic Race Weekend. For a break from two wheels, go skiing and snowboarding at Crested Butte Mountain Resort and Crested Butte Nordic. In the Roaring Fork Valley, pedal the groomed Brush Creek, Fox Run, and Owl Creek trails – all part of the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System. Those new to fat biking can soak in beautiful scenery and get used to the sport on the Aspen Fat Bike Loop. Just under an hour away, Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs provides welcome relief for sore muscles. Looking for more of a tailored experience? The Front Range Ride Guides provide certified instructors and customized trail rides all around the Colorado Front Range, including tours in Fort Collins and Boulder. Half- and full-day trips are available. Indulge in local craft beers, warm drinks and other refreshments after your tour.

Fly into Denver International Airport (DEN) and rent a car to tour Colorado’s breathtaking sights at your own pace. Be sure to leave no trace by staying on designated trails and cleaning your bike tires before and after outings to keep Colorado beautiful.