The best gravel rides in the Flat Tops

There are 8 gravel bike trails available in the Flat Tops region on komoot, offering a range of experiences for different skill levels.

The Flat Tops region features a diverse landscape, from smooth dirt roads to sections that can be extremely rough and challenging, sometimes requiring you to dismount and push your bike. You'll encounter high-altitude meadows, extensive dirt roads, and varied forest sections, reflecting the area's volcanic and glacial history.

While many routes in the Flat Tops are moderate to difficult, the region does offer options for varying skill levels. For a relatively easier ride, consider the Stagecoach Reservoir – Stagecoach Reservoir loop from Stagecoach State Park, which is 9.6 miles long with minimal elevation gain.

Experienced riders looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes. The Oak Creek loop from Milner is a demanding 57-mile trail with significant elevation gain, often taking nearly 9 hours to complete. Another difficult option is the Hayden – Elkhead Reservoir loop from Hayden, covering almost 70 miles with over 1,100 meters of ascent.

The Flat Tops are rich in natural beauty. You can encounter impressive water features like Trappers Lake, known as the 'Cradle of Wilderness,' or the stunning Rifle Falls. The region also boasts dramatic geological formations such as the Devils Causeway, a narrow rock formation with steep drops, and the Chinese Wall.

The best time for gravel biking in the Flat Tops is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. During summer, the subalpine meadows are vibrant with wildflowers. Winter conditions can make many trails inaccessible or extremely challenging due to snow and ice.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, families might enjoy sections of the smoother dirt roads at lower elevations. For a shorter, less strenuous ride, the Stagecoach Reservoir – Stagecoach Reservoir loop from Stagecoach State Park offers scenic views around the reservoir and is classified as easy.

Yes, the Flat Tops region is home to abundant wildlife. You might encounter Colorado's largest elk herd, bighorn sheep, moose, mule deer, and black bears. Mountain lions and marmots are also present. Always be aware of your surroundings and maintain a respectful distance from animals.

Many of the gravel bike trails in the Flat Tops are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Rotary Trailhead – Routt County Road 45 loop from Eagle Soaring RV Park and the longer Oak Creek loop from Milner.

The Flat Tops are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from smooth dirt roads to challenging sections, and the stunning natural beauty, including high-altitude meadows and extensive water features. The opportunity to explore a unique volcanic landscape is also a significant draw.

Access points like Buford Road (County Road 245) and Coffee Pot Road climb onto the plateau and serve as starting points for many routes. Specific trailheads, such as Stagecoach State Park or Eagle Soaring RV Park, also offer parking for accessing trails like the Stagecoach Reservoir loop or the Rotary Trailhead loop.

The Flat Tops region is largely wilderness, so amenities like cafes and extensive accommodation are limited directly along the trails. It's advisable to plan your rides with sufficient supplies. Nearby towns like Meeker, Rifle, or Steamboat Springs (depending on your specific route) offer more services, including lodging and dining options.