Explore the Beauty of Colorado: Top Bicycle Rides to Experience in 2016

Experience the stunning Colorado scenery on two wheels with our top picks for the best bicycle rides of 2016. Don't miss out on the adventure!

Colorado is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, from skiing and snowboarding during the winter months to hiking and biking in the summer. For cyclists, the Centennial State is a dream destination, offering a diverse range of terrain that caters to all skill levels. Whether you're an experienced road racer or a casual cruiser, Colorado's scenic landscapes and challenging routes make it the perfect place for a memorable bike ride.

One of the most popular cycling events in Colorado is the Ride the Rockies, a seven-day tour that takes riders through some of the state's most breathtaking scenery. The route changes every year, but past rides have included iconic locations such as Rocky Mountain National Park, Mount Evans, and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. With daily distances ranging from 40 to 100 miles, this ride is not for the faint of heart, but the stunning views and camaraderie among fellow riders make it an unforgettable experience.

If you're looking for a shorter ride but still want to experience Colorado's beauty, the Elephant Rock Cycling Festival is a great option. Held annually in Castle Rock, this one-day event offers rides of varying lengths, from a family-friendly 8-miler to a challenging 100-mile century ride. The festival also features live music, food and drink vendors, and a lively atmosphere that makes it a fun day out for all ages.

For those seeking an off-road adventure, Colorado has plenty of mountain biking trails to explore. The 401 Trail near Crested Butte is a must-ride for intermediate to advanced riders, with its stunning wildflowers and panoramic views of the Elk Mountains. The Kokopelli Trail near Fruita is another favorite, offering a 142-mile journey through rugged desert terrain and slickrock canyons.

Of course, no discussion of Colorado cycling would be complete without mentioning the state's most famous climb: Pikes Peak. This 14,115-foot mountain is a bucket-list ride for many cyclists, with its breathtaking views and challenging ascent. The Pikes Peak Hill Climb, held annually since 1916, is a grueling race that sees competitors tackle the mountain's steep grades and hairpin turns.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, Colorado's bike rides offer something for everyone. From the stunning scenery to the challenging routes, there's no better way to experience all that this beautiful state has to offer than on two wheels.

In conclusion, Colorado bicycle rides 2016 are the perfect opportunity for adventure-seekers to explore the Centennial State's stunning landscapes and challenging terrain. With events such as Ride the Rockies and the Elephant Rock Cycling Festival, as well as countless mountain biking trails and iconic climbs like Pikes Peak, there's no shortage of options for cyclists of all skill levels. So grab your bike and hit the road – Colorado is waiting for you!

Introduction

Colorado is a land of natural beauty and scenic landscapes. With its high peaks and long valleys, it's no wonder that Colorado is one of the most popular states for cycling in the United States. The state has miles of bike trails and roads that provide cyclists with an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Colorado. In this article, we will explore some of the best bicycle rides in Colorado for 2016.

The Colorado Classic

The first ride on our list is the Colorado Classic, which is one of the most challenging and exciting races in Colorado. The race features some of the best professional cyclists in the world, and it takes place in August. The route covers over 313 miles across Colorado's mountains, valleys, and cities. The race starts in Colorado Springs and ends in Denver, with stops in Breckenridge and Golden. The Colorado Classic is a great event for both spectators and participants, making it one of the must-ride bicycle events in Colorado.

The Triple Bypass

The Triple Bypass is another popular bicycle ride in Colorado. The ride covers 120 miles from Evergreen to Avon, crossing three mountain passes along the way. The ride is challenging and requires a lot of endurance, but it's worth it for the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The Triple Bypass is held every year in July, and it's a great way to experience Colorado's mountain scenery.

The Elephant Rock Ride

The Elephant Rock Ride is one of the most popular recreational bicycle rides in Colorado. The ride takes place in June and covers 100 miles of rolling hills in the Castle Rock area. The ride is suitable for all skill levels, and there are various distances to choose from, making it a great event for families and groups. The ride also features a festival with food, music, and beer, making it a fun event for everyone.

The Ride the Rockies

Ride the Rockies is a week-long bicycle ride that covers over 400 miles through some of Colorado's most scenic areas. The ride takes place in June and features stops in various mountain towns along the way. The route changes every year, but it always includes some of Colorado's most stunning scenery. The Ride the Rockies is a challenging ride, but it's also a great way to experience Colorado's natural beauty.

The Copper Triangle

The Copper Triangle is a 78-mile ride that takes place in August. The ride starts and ends at Copper Mountain and covers three mountain passes along the way. The ride is challenging but offers some of the most spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. The ride is suitable for all skill levels, but it's recommended for cyclists who are comfortable riding in mountainous terrain.

The Venus de Miles

The Venus de Miles is a women-only ride that takes place in August. The ride covers 33, 64, or 100 miles, depending on the distance you choose. The ride takes place in Boulder, and it's a great way to get women involved in cycling. The ride is suitable for all skill levels, and it features rest stops with food and drinks along the way.

The Tour of the Moon

The Tour of the Moon is a classic ride that takes place in Grand Junction. The ride covers 62 miles and offers some of the most stunning views of the Colorado National Monument. The ride is challenging but worth it for the breathtaking scenery. The ride takes place in September, and it's a great way to experience Colorado's natural beauty in the fall.

The Pedal the Plains

Pedal the Plains is a three-day ride that covers 150 miles through the eastern plains of Colorado. The ride takes place in September and features stops in various small towns along the way. The ride is suitable for all skill levels, and it's a great way to experience the rural side of Colorado. The ride also features a festival with food, music, and beer at each stop, making it a fun event for everyone.

The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic

The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is a popular ride that takes place in Durango. The ride covers 50 miles from Durango to Silverton and features a climb up the famous Coal Bank Pass. The ride is challenging but offers some of the most spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains. The ride takes place in May and is a great way to kick off the cycling season in Colorado.

Conclusion

Colorado offers some of the best bicycle rides in the United States. Whether you're a recreational cyclist or a professional racer, there's something for everyone in Colorado. From the mountainous terrain of the Colorado Classic to the rolling hills of the Elephant Rock Ride, Colorado has it all. So, grab your bike and explore the natural beauty of Colorado on two wheels.

Exploring the Beauty of Colorado on Two Wheels: A Guide to the Best Bicycle Rides of 2016Colorado is a cyclist's paradise, with stunning scenery and a diverse range of bike routes that cater to all types of riders. From mountain passes to urban trails, Colorado's bicycle routes offer something for everyone. In this article, we'll take a look at the top bicycle rides in Colorado for 2016, including must-do rides for adventure-seekers, history buffs, and families, as well as charity rides and culinary adventures.From Mountain Passes to Urban Trails: A Look at the Diversity of Colorado's Bicycle RoutesColorado's mountainous terrain provides some of the most challenging and rewarding cycling experiences in the world. One of the most popular routes is the Trail Ridge Road, which takes cyclists over the Continental Divide and through Rocky Mountain National Park. This 48-mile ride is not for the faint of heart, with steep climbs and hairpin turns, but the views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.For those looking for a less strenuous ride, Colorado's urban trails offer a more relaxed cycling experience. The Cherry Creek Bike Path in Denver is a 22-mile paved trail that winds through the city and along the Cherry Creek. The trail is mostly flat and offers views of the city's skyline and parks.The Top 5 Must-Do Bicycle Rides in Colorado for Adventure-Seeking CyclistsFor adrenaline junkies, Colorado has no shortage of challenging and exhilarating bike routes. The first on our list is the Mount Evans Hill Climb, a 28-mile ride that takes cyclists up to the summit of Mount Evans, one of the highest peaks in Colorado. The ride is not for the faint of heart, with an elevation gain of over 7,000 feet, but the views from the top are worth it.The second must-do ride is the Copper Triangle, a 78-mile loop that takes cyclists over three mountain passes. The ride starts and ends in Copper Mountain, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.The third ride on our list is the Triple Bypass, a 120-mile ride that takes cyclists over three mountain passes in one day. The ride starts in Evergreen and ends in Avon, and is not for the faint of heart.Fourth on the list is the Leadville Trail 100, a 100-mile race that takes cyclists through the mountains around Leadville. The race is considered one of the most challenging in the world, with an elevation gain of over 14,000 feet.Finally, the fifth must-do ride is the Tour of the Moon, a 62-mile ride that takes cyclists through the Colorado National Monument, offering stunning views of the red rock formations.Pedaling Through History: Colorado's Best Bicycle Rides for History BuffsColorado has a rich history, and there are several bike routes that offer a glimpse into the state's past. The first on our list is the Denver Cruiser Ride, a weekly group ride that takes cyclists through the city's historic neighborhoods, including Capitol Hill and LoDo.The second ride on our list is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Bike Tour, a 47-mile ride that follows the historic narrow-gauge railway from Durango to Silverton. The ride offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and the Animas River.The third ride on our list is the Colorado Riverfront Trail, a 21-mile paved trail that follows the Colorado River through Grand Junction and offers views of the area's historic orchards and wineries.Discovering Colorado's Hidden Gems: A Guide to Off-the-Beaten-Path Bicycle RoutesFor those looking to get off the beaten path, Colorado has plenty of hidden gems to explore. The first on our list is the Kokopelli Trail, a 142-mile route that takes cyclists from Grand Junction to Moab, Utah. The trail passes through desert canyons and offers stunning views of the Colorado River.The second ride on our list is the San Juan Skyway, a 236-mile loop that takes cyclists through the rugged San Juan Mountains. The ride offers stunning views of the area's historic mining towns and natural beauty.The third ride on our list is the Colorado Trail, a 500-mile trail that spans the state from Denver to Durango. The trail offers a challenging and rewarding cycling experience, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife.The Best Family-Friendly Bicycle Rides in Colorado for a Fun Day OutFor families looking for a fun day out, Colorado has plenty of bike routes that cater to all ages and abilities. The first on our list is the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail, a 16-mile paved trail that follows the Fountain Creek from Colorado Springs to Monument. The trail is mostly flat and offers views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife.The second ride on our list is the Cherry Creek State Park Trail, a 12-mile paved trail that circles Cherry Creek Reservoir. The trail is mostly flat and offers views of the reservoir and surrounding park.Finally, the third ride on our list is the Animas River Trail, a 7-mile paved trail that follows the Animas River through Durango. The trail is mostly flat and offers views of the river and surrounding mountains.Conquering Colorado's Toughest Bicycle Climbs: A Challenge for Experienced CyclistsFor experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, Colorado has some of the toughest climbs in the world. The first on our list is the Mount Evans Hill Climb, mentioned earlier, which takes cyclists up to the summit of Mount Evans.The second climb on our list is the Independence Pass, a 20-mile climb that takes cyclists over the Continental Divide. The climb starts in Aspen and ends at the summit, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.The third climb on our list is the Guanella Pass, a 24-mile climb that takes cyclists up to the summit of Guanella Pass. The climb starts in Georgetown and offers stunning views of Mount Bierstadt and Mount Evans.Biking for a Cause: Colorado's Charity Bicycle Rides of 2016For cyclists looking to give back, Colorado has several charity rides throughout the year. The first on our list is the Courage Classic, a 3-day ride that benefits Children's Hospital Colorado. The ride takes cyclists through the mountains around Summit County.The second ride on our list is the Tour de Cure, a one-day ride that benefits the American Diabetes Association. The ride offers several route options, ranging from 12 to 100 miles.Finally, the third ride on our list is the Elephant Rock Ride, a one-day ride that benefits the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson's Disease. The ride offers several route options, ranging from 8 to 100 miles.A Culinary Adventure on Two Wheels: Colorado's Best Bicycle Rides for FoodiesFor foodies looking for a unique culinary experience, Colorado has plenty of bike routes that offer a taste of the local cuisine. The first on our list is the Boulder County Farmers' Market Bike Ride, a 20-mile ride that takes cyclists to several local farms and the Boulder County Farmers' Market. The ride offers a taste of the area's fresh produce and artisanal products.The second ride on our list is the Vail Valley Wine Trail, a 28-mile ride that takes cyclists to several local wineries and tasting rooms. The ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a taste of the area's award-winning wines.Finally, the third ride on our list is the Pedal the Plains, a 3-day ride that takes cyclists through the Eastern Plains of Colorado, offering a taste of the area's local cuisine and culture.The Ultimate Colorado Bicycle Road Trip: Exploring the State's Best Rides from North to SouthFor those looking to explore all that Colorado has to offer, a road trip is the perfect way to see the state's best bike routes. The first leg of the trip starts in Fort Collins and takes cyclists along the Poudre River Trail and up to Estes Park, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.The second leg of the trip takes cyclists through Boulder and along the Cherry Creek Bike Path, offering a taste of the city's vibrant culture and culinary scene.Finally, the third leg of the trip takes cyclists through Durango and along the San Juan Skyway, offering stunning views of the area's historic mining towns and natural beauty.In conclusion, Colorado offers a diverse range of bike routes for all types of cyclists, from mountain passes to urban trails, and from family-friendly rides to challenging climbs. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush, a taste of the local cuisine, or a glimpse into the state's rich history, Colorado's bike routes have something for everyone. Get on your bike and start exploring!

Colorado Bicycle Rides 2016: A Cyclist's Perspective

Pros of Colorado Bicycle Rides 2016

1. Scenic routes through breathtaking landscapes
2. Well-organized events with excellent support services
3. Opportunities to meet like-minded people and make new friends
4. Challenging routes for experienced cyclists
5. Access to top-notch cycling facilities and equipment

Cons of Colorado Bicycle Rides 2016

1. High registration fees
2. Crowded roads and trails during peak season
3. Unpredictable weather conditions, especially at high altitudes
4. Risk of accidents due to steep inclines and narrow roads
5. Limited availability of lodging options in some areas

Comparison of Colorado Bicycle Rides 2016

Ride Name	Distance	Difficulty Level	Registration Fee
Triple Bypass	120 miles	Expert	$200
Colorado Classic	60 miles	Intermediate	$100
Copper Triangle	78 miles	Intermediate	$150
Mount Evans Hill Climb	27 miles	Expert	$75
Golden Gran Fondo	20-90 miles	Beginner-Expert	$125

In summary, Colorado offers an array of challenging and scenic bicycle rides for cyclists of all levels. However, participants should be aware of the high registration fees, crowded roads, and unpredictable weather conditions. It is recommended to choose a ride that matches your skill level and budget, and to plan ahead for lodging and transportation. With proper preparation, Colorado bicycle rides can be an unforgettable experience for any cyclist.

Closing Message for Colorado Bicycle Rides 2016

As we come to the end of our journey exploring the beautiful state of Colorado on two wheels, I hope you have been inspired to get out and explore the many scenic routes that this state has to offer. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the rolling hills of the Eastern Plains, there is no shortage of stunning landscapes to be discovered.

Whether you are a seasoned pro or a novice rider, there is something for everyone in Colorado. The state boasts an extensive network of bike trails, ranging from leisurely paved paths to rugged mountain bike terrain. No matter what your skill level or preferred style of riding, you are sure to find an adventure that suits your needs.

One of the most popular routes in Colorado is the breathtaking Trail Ridge Road, which spans over 48 miles through Rocky Mountain National Park. This iconic ride takes you up to an elevation of over 12,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

If you are looking for a more challenging ride, the famous Copper Triangle route may be just what you need. This 78-mile loop takes you through three mountain passes and offers some of the most stunning scenery in the state. You will encounter steep climbs, thrilling descents, and plenty of breathtaking vistas along the way.

For those seeking a more leisurely ride, the Cherry Creek Trail in Denver is a great option. This paved path winds through the heart of the city, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Along the way, you will pass by parks, gardens, and historic landmarks, making for a relaxing and enjoyable ride.

No matter which route you choose, safety should always be your top priority. Be sure to wear appropriate gear, including a helmet, and obey all traffic laws and signals. Stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days, and take breaks as needed to rest and refuel.

Finally, don't forget to soak up the stunning scenery and enjoy the ride. Colorado is one of the most beautiful states in the country, and there is no better way to experience its natural wonders than on a bike. Take your time, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and savor every moment of your journey.

Thank you for joining us on this exploration of Colorado's best bicycle rides. We hope you have found inspiration for your next adventure, and we look forward to seeing you out on the trails soon!