The best cycling routes around Northglenn

Northglenn offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 110 options available. Approximately half of these routes are rated as easy, making them suitable for casual riders, while the other half are moderate, providing a bit more challenge. There are also a few difficult routes for experienced cyclists.

Touring cycling routes in Northglenn traverse diverse terrain, including extensive paved and unpaved sections of the Greenway Trail System. You'll encounter scenic views of the Rocky Mountain foothills, picturesque lakes such as Webster Lake, and riparian areas along creeks like Big Dry Creek. The city's commitment to open spaces means you'll often ride through natural settings.

Yes, Northglenn offers many easy routes perfect for families. A great option is the Full Moon Over Webster Lake – Webster Lake loop from Northglenn, an easy 17.8-mile ride that circles Webster Lake and is often completed in under two hours. The city's parks, like E.B. Rains, Jr. Memorial Park, also provide amenities for a family day out.

Many routes offer views of the Rocky Mountain foothills and pass by natural features like Webster Lake and Croke Reservoir. You can also explore areas like the Big Dry Creek Trail itself, or visit nearby natural attractions such as Standley Lake and Lowell Ponds Wildlife Area. These areas provide opportunities to observe waterfowl and local wildlife.

Northglenn is generally pleasant for cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fall showcasing beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Even winter cycling is possible on many paved trails, especially on milder days, as the city actively maintains its trail system.

For those seeking longer rides, Northglenn has several moderate to challenging options. The Big Dry Creek – Big Dry Creek Trail loop from Eastlake & 124th is a moderate 34.5-mile route that explores both paved and unpaved sections of the Big Dry Creek Trail. Another option is the South Platte River – The Grove at Commons Park loop from Thornton Crossroads & 104th, a 26.7-mile moderate trail following the South Platte River.

Northglenn's extensive Greenway Trail System is designed for connectivity, linking parks, neighborhoods, and regional networks. The city's 'Connect Northglenn' plan aims to integrate cycling with daily life, making it easier to access trails. While specific RTD bus routes to trailheads would need to be checked with the transit authority, the overall infrastructure supports multi-modal access.

The touring cycling routes in Northglenn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 160 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive multi-use trail network, the scenic views of the Rocky Mountain foothills, and the pleasant routes around lakes and creeks. The variety of options, from easy to moderate, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many of Northglenn's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Lakeview Tributary Open Space – Sage Creek Park loop from Eastlake & 124th is an easy 10.3-mile circular route. The Full Moon Over Webster Lake – Webster Lake loop from Eastlake & 124th is another popular easy loop, covering 14.1 miles.

Northglenn features 27 parks and open spaces, many of which serve as access points to the Greenway Trail System. Parks like Carpenter Park, Central Park, and Charles C. Winburn Park often include parking facilities, making it convenient for touring cyclists to start their rides. It's advisable to check specific park amenities for detailed parking information.

Yes, Northglenn's trails often pass through designated open spaces and riparian areas, providing opportunities for wildlife observation. Areas like Croke Reservoir Nature Area and Oscar Arnold Nature Area are known for supporting diverse wildlife habitats, including various bird species and other small animals. Cycling along creeks like Big Dry Creek can also offer glimpses of local fauna.