The best road cycling routes around Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 70 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging rides.

Road cycling routes around Manitou Springs feature diverse terrain, characterized by towering red rock formations, expansive mountain views, and lush pine forests. You can expect varied elevation profiles, ranging from moderate climbs to challenging ascents, especially around the base of Pikes Peak. Many routes offer well-paved surfaces and designated bike lanes.

While the guide focuses on general road cycling, the region offers routes that can be enjoyed by families, particularly those with some cycling experience. The Steamboat Rock – Garden of the Gods loop from Old Colorado City is a moderate 24.5 km route with less elevation gain compared to others, making it a good option for a family outing. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and distance.

Manitou Springs is rich in scenic landmarks. Many routes, such as the Balanced Rock loop, offer stunning views of iconic red rock formations like Three Graces rock formation and Balanced Rock within Garden of the Gods, with Pikes Peak often looming in the distance. The View of Ute Valley Park – Criterium Bike Shop loop also provides vistas and unique geological features.

While road cycling routes themselves are generally for cyclists, if you're looking for an area where you might combine a ride with a dog-friendly stop, the Red Rock Canyon Open Space – Bear Creek Dog Park loop from Manitou Springs passes by the Bear Creek Dog Park, offering a place for your canine companion to stretch its legs. Always ensure your dog is safe and leashed when not in designated off-leash areas.

Manitou Springs offers excellent road cycling opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and fall generally provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer weather and potential afternoon thunderstorms. Winter cycling is possible, but some higher elevation routes or those with shaded sections may have ice or snow, so checking local conditions is advisable.

Yes, Manitou Springs offers several challenging routes for experienced road cyclists. While specific 'difficult' routes are fewer (6 out of 70), many moderate routes feature significant elevation gains that can be demanding. The region's proximity to Pikes Peak means opportunities for epic climbs, though the Pikes Peak Highway itself is a major challenge. Routes like the Balanced Rock – Garden of the Gods loop from Manitou Depot, with over 760 meters of elevation gain, provide a substantial workout.

Parking is available at various points around Manitou Springs and the surrounding parks. For routes starting in Garden of the Gods, there are designated parking areas within the park. For routes originating from Manitou Springs itself, public parking lots are available. It's always recommended to check specific starting points of your chosen route for the most convenient parking options.

Yes, many of the popular road cycling routes in Manitou Springs are designed as loops, offering a continuous scenic experience without retracing your path. Examples include the Balanced Rock loop, the Balanced Rock – Garden of the Gods loop from Manitou Depot, and the Red Rock Canyon Open Space – Bear Creek Dog Park loop.

The road cycling experience in Manitou Springs is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning natural landscapes, particularly the dramatic red rock formations of Garden of the Gods and the expansive mountain views with Pikes Peak as a backdrop. The well-paved roads and diverse elevation profiles also contribute to a rewarding experience.

Absolutely. Many road cycling routes are designed to pass through or offer direct access to these iconic locations. For instance, routes within Garden of the Gods provide close-up views of formations like Kissing Camels and Balanced Rock. While the Pikes Peak Highway is a challenging ascent, its presence provides a dramatic backdrop and an ultimate goal for some cyclists. You can also find highlights like the Pikes Peak summit and various rock formations like North Gateway Rock along or near these routes.

While the primary focus of road cycling in Manitou Springs is on mountain and rock formations, some routes may offer glimpses of nearby water features. The region has several beautiful lakes, such as Crystal Creek Reservoir and Gold Camp Reservoir, which are part of the broader natural landscape. While not directly on every road cycling path, they contribute to the area's overall scenic beauty.