Settled as a miners’ supply town at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Denver, Colorado, is not only the Mile-High City but also a haven for cyclists seeking diverse terrains, breathtaking views, and a vibrant cycling culture. From urban trails to mountain escapes, Denver and its surroundings cities and communities offer an array of cycling adventures that cater to riders of all levels. In this article, I embark on a journey to explore the exhilarating experience of riding bikes in and around Denver. There are plenty of choices to choose from. With over 850 miles of different bicycling trails to ride, this article only touches on a few more well known trails.

Denver’s Cycling Culture: A Unique Blend of Urban and Outdoor

Denver’s cycling scene is a vibrant fusion of urban convenience and outdoor excitement. The city’s commitment to sustainable transportation and healthy living is evident through its extensive network of bike lanes, designated routes, and bike-sharing programs. The Denver Bike Plan aims to transform the city into a premier cycling destination, fostering a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists. Every year more and more miles of trails and bike lanes are added to the city. There are also riding events for day and evening group rides, the popular Cruiser rides in Denver and Golden. There are fun.

Here is a link to learn more about social bike rides like the Cruiser Ride pictured above: https://www.5280.com/the-best-social-bike-rides-around-metro-denver/

Cherry Creek Trail: Cycling Through the Heart of Denver

One of Denver’s iconic cycling routes is the Cherry Creek Trail. Stretching over 40 miles, this multi-use path takes cyclists on a scenic journey through the heart of the city. Starting from Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River, the trail meanders upstream through parks, neighborhoods, and vibrant districts like Cherry Creek and Glendale neighborhoods. As you pedal along, you’ll encounter lush green spaces, public art installations, and the bustling energy of downtown Denver. Check it out.

Here is a link to a map of the Cherry Creek Trail: https://trails.colorado.gov/trails/cherry-creek-20375

High Line Canal Trail: A Tranquil Escape

For those seeking a more serene cycling experience, the High Line Canal Trail offers an idyllic escape from the urban hustle. This historic trail stretches over 70 miles, winding its way through suburban neighborhoods, parks, and open spaces. The trail’s crushed gravel surface adds to its charm, creating a peaceful environment for leisurely rides and quiet contemplation. Built originally as a water canal stretching from the foothills to far flung farms and ranches of east Adams and Arapahoe counties, it was converted to a bicycling and walking trail to the delight of thousands of its users. It’s a great ride from mountains to the plains.

Here is a link to the Highline map:  https://highlinecanal.org/guide/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwpc-oBhCGARIsAH6ote_nlZs5njWDmKgiY1bK8MnnpVqsvZ37vkqomL0VQWFtMWPqk75eCOoaAjxFEALw_wcB

Red Rocks and Beyond: Mountain Biking Adventures

Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find an array of exhilarating trails that cater to different skill levels. One standout destination is Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, known for its iconic natural rock formations. The park offers a variety of trails, allowing cyclists to soak in the stunning red rock landscapes while navigating exciting terrain. Don’t let the above photo fool you, there are many miles of mountain bike trails but also great road biking rides that offer incredible views and workouts to match your interests. It’s a great challenge but worth it.

Here is a link to learn more abut Red Rocks: https://www.denver.org/listing/red-rocks-park-%26-amphitheatre/4574/

Golden: The Gateway to Cycling Bliss

Located just west of Denver, the charming town of Golden is a haven for cyclists. With its historic charm and proximity to mountain trails, Golden provides an ideal starting point for exploring the breathtaking cycling routes of the Colorado foothills. The Lariat Loop, a scenic byway, takes cyclists on a tour of Red Rocks, Bear Creek Canyon, and Lookout Mountain. The reward at the end of the ride is a panoramic view of Denver’s skyline against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Golden is also a famous brew pub town with loads of hiking and rock climbing activities’ to explore ads well.

Here is a link to learn more about Golden: https://www.cityofgolden.net/

Bike-Friendly Breweries: A Unique Denver Experience

Denver’s cycling culture intersects with its renowned craft beer scene in a delightful way. The city’s numerous bike-friendly breweries offer cyclists a unique opportunity to combine their love for biking with the joy of discovering local flavors. The Denver Beer Trail features a selection of breweries that are easily accessible by bike, allowing riders to indulge in refreshing brews after an exhilarating ride. What could be better.

Here are two links to different Brew Pub Bike Rides in Denver: https://handlestash.com/blogs/blog/denver-brewery-tours-by-bike

https://www.milehighbiketours.com/tours/bike-brew/

Cycling Events and Community Engagement

Denver’s cycling community comes together through a range of events that celebrate the joy of biking and the city’s outdoor spirit. The Denver Century Ride, for instance, offers cyclists a chance to explore the city’s neighborhoods and scenic views while challenging themselves to complete a 100-mile route. The city also hosts the Bike to Work Day, encouraging commuters to pedal their way to the office and experience the city from a unique perspective. Try one of the many events.

Here is a link to learn more about the Denver Century Ride: https://denvercenturyride.com/

Conclusion: Denver’s Cycling Allure

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a casual rider, or a curious explorer, Denver’s cycling offerings are as diverse as the city itself. From urban trails that wind through its vibrant districts to mountain escapes that offer an adrenaline rush, Denver’s cycling landscape has something for everyone. As you pedal along the Cherry Creek Trail, conquer mountain trails, or enjoy a leisurely ride in Golden, you’ll discover that cycling in and around Denver is not just an activity—it’s a dynamic and immersive experience that allows you to connect with the city’s natural beauty, its cultural vibrancy, and the sense of freedom that only two wheels can provide. Ride baby.

Here is a link to check out the bike maps in Denver: https://www.denver.org/things-to-do/sports-recreation/bike-trails/

Here is a link to another article that includes Boulder as a one of the major biking towns in the US: https://bigworldcycling.com/the-best-5-us-cities-for-riding-in/