The best cycling routes in Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes. You'll find 58 routes in total, including 24 easy, 16 moderate, and 18 difficult options, catering to various skill levels.

Touring cycling here is defined by dramatic red rock landscapes, sheer-walled canyons, and towering monoliths. Routes primarily follow paved roads, offering sweeping vistas of the Grand Valley and distant mesas. Expect significant elevation changes, particularly on scenic drives like Rim Rock Drive, which features approximately 2,300 feet of climbing.

Yes, there are 24 easy touring cycling routes in Colorado National Monument. While the monument is known for its challenging climbs, these easier options allow for a more relaxed experience, often on flatter sections or shorter loops. Always check the route details for specific elevation profiles to ensure it matches your group's ability.

As you cycle through the monument, you'll encounter numerous distinctive rock formations and breathtaking viewpoints. Key attractions include Independence Monument Overlook, Coke Ovens Overlook, and formations like the Kissing Couple, Balanced Rock, and Pipe Organ. Many of these are visible from Rim Rock Drive.

The full Rim Rock Drive route, which is 26.3 miles (42.3 km) long, typically takes around 3 hours and 1 minute to complete for touring cyclists. This duration can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the number of stops for photos, and the challenging elevation gains.

Yes, cyclists often extend their ride beyond the monument. For example, the Colorado National Monument loop is a 32.8-mile (52.8 km) path that incorporates connecting roads outside the monument, often including the flatter Colorado Riverfront path, offering varied terrain and views of the surrounding Grand Valley.

Yes, cyclists must adhere to specific regulations. Bikes are only permitted on paved roads within the monument. It's crucial to be aware of vehicle traffic, especially on the winding and steep sections of Rim Rock Drive. For detailed rules and safety guidelines, it's recommended to check the official National Park Service website: nps.gov/colm/bicycling.

The best seasons for touring cycling are typically spring and fall when temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot, making early morning rides essential to avoid the heat. Winters can bring snow and ice, especially at higher elevations, which may close or make some routes impassable.

Yes, many of the popular touring cycling routes in Colorado National Monument are designed as loops or can be combined to form circular rides. For instance, the Historic Trails View – View of Balanced Rock loop from Saddlehorn offers a moderate 11.6 km circular experience. The full Rim Rock Drive itself is a point-to-point scenic road, but can be part of a larger loop by using connecting roads outside the monument.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled panoramic views of the red rock canyons and monoliths, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the unique geological features visible along the paved routes. The sense of accomplishment after navigating the significant elevation changes is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Colorado National Monument charges an entrance fee. This fee applies to all visitors, including cyclists, and contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the park. For current fee information, it's best to consult the official National Park Service website: nps.gov/colm.

Parking is available at both the east (Grand Junction) and west (Fruita) entrances of Colorado National Monument, as well as at the Colorado National Monument Visitor Center. These locations provide convenient access points for starting your touring cycling adventure on Rim Rock Drive or other routes.