The best road cycling routes in Pueblo County

This moderate 34.9-mile road cycling loop around Pueblo Reservoir offers high desert scenery and reservoir views, requiring good fitness.

Cycle the Arkansas River and Pueblo Reservoir Trail Loop for an easy road cycling experience that blends urban riverfront paths with open reservoir vistas. This route covers 19.0 miles (30.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 392 feet (119 metres), making it a relaxed ride you can complete in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You will follow the Arkansas River, passing the Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo, before the scenery opens up to the undulating desert landscape around Pueblo Reservoir, offering expansive views from spots like Liberty Point.

This multi-use pathway system is popular, so be ready to share the trail with pedestrians; remember to yield and keep a safe speed. The route is easily accessible, with plenty of parking available around Lake Pueblo State Park. You will find various access points that connect the city trails to the reservoir, making it simple to start your ride.

The trail offers a unique blend of environments, transitioning from the green, tree-lined banks of the Arkansas River to the wide-open desert views overlooking the Pueblo Reservoir and the distant Wet Mountain Range. This diversity makes the loop a standout option for exploring the natural beauty and varied landscapes of the region on two wheels.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure around the Pueblo Reservoir, offering diverse terrain and expansive views. This route covers 35.8 miles (57.6 km) with an elevation gain of 948 feet (289 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 37 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you will encounter mostly well-paved surfaces, though some sections may be unpaved, leading you to the prominent Liberty Point for sweeping vistas of the reservoir, Greenhorn Mountain, and the distant Wet Mountain Range. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like pronghorn antelope and various birds of prey, especially during the quieter times of day.

This loop is situated within Lake Pueblo State Park, making it easily accessible for a day trip. You can find ample parking within the park, which also serves as a gateway to the broader Pueblo Trail System. Consider starting your ride in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially spot more wildlife. During the summer months, you might want to plan a refreshing stop at Rock Canyon Swim Beach to cool off before continuing your journey.

The trail is part of a larger network of paved multi-use trails, providing you with options for extending your ride if you wish to explore more of the area. The route's location within Lake Pueblo State Park means you can combine your cycling with other recreational activities available in the park. This trail offers a rewarding experience for cyclists looking for a moderate challenge with varied scenery and opportunities to connect with nature.

Embark on an easy road cycling journey along The Arkansas River Trail loop from Pueblo. This 27.4-mile (44.1 km) route offers a smooth, paved experience, perfect for a relaxed ride. You will gain 584 feet (178 metres) in elevation over an estimated 1 hour and 58 minutes. As you pedal, you'll enjoy diverse scenery, from tree-filled hillsides to urban stretches, always with close-up views of the Arkansas River. Keep an eye out for the vibrant murals that add an artistic touch to some sections of the trail.

The trail is a multi-use path, so you will share it with pedestrians; remember to yield and maintain a safe speed for everyone's enjoyment. You can access the route from various points, as it connects the heart of Pueblo with Lake Pueblo State Park. No specific permits are required to enjoy this ride. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the changing landscapes along the river.

This popular cycling trail is a great way to explore Pueblo's natural and urban environment. You will pass notable spots like Runyon Lake and the Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife and scenery. The route's accessibility and gentle profile make it a standout option for a pleasant outing in the region.

Embark on the Pueblo to Beulah loop, a moderate racebike route spanning 56.6 miles (91.1 km) with an elevation gain of 2787 feet (850 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 4 hours and 7 minutes. As you cycle, you will experience diverse landscapes, from gentle rolling climbs alongside ranches as you head towards the foothills from Pueblo. Near Beulah, the scenery shifts to pine forests and open meadows, revealing stunning rock formations within Pueblo Mountain Park. Look out for panoramic vistas of the Beulah Valley, offering expansive views that reward your effort. In autumn, the vibrant aspen groves along CO-78 and near Davenport Campground are particularly striking.

To begin your ride, parking is generally available in Pueblo. The route primarily features well-paved surfaces, ensuring a smooth ride for most of the journey. However, be aware that the climb on CO-78/Twelve Mile highway, specifically from Beulah to CO-165, is notably the last unpaved highway in Colorado. This section experiences minimal traffic, but you should prepare for a different surface. If you are considering an extended trip, camping options are available at the historic Davenport Campground.

This loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical context. The unpaved section of CO-78/Twelve Mile highway provides a glimpse into Colorado's past, making it a distinctive feature of the ride. The varied terrain, from ranchlands to pine forests and rock formations, showcases the diverse ecosystems of the region. This route is ideal if you are looking for a challenging yet rewarding ride that combines physical exertion with scenic exploration and a touch of local history.