The best traffic-free bike rides around Aguilar

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails listed in this guide for the Aguilar area. These routes offer a challenging and rewarding experience away from vehicular traffic.

The dry, exhilarating climate of the Apishapa River Valley means many days are suitable for riding. However, routes that ascend to higher elevations, such as those approaching Cordova Pass, can be snow-blocked from mid-November until late May. For the most consistent access to all trails, late spring through early autumn is ideal.

The routes featured in this guide are generally rated as 'difficult' due to their length and elevation gain. For example, the Salinas de Pisuerga Bridge – Hermitage of Santa Cecilia loop from Mave covers over 76 km with more than 1000 meters of climbing. While the region offers stunning scenery, beginners or families with young children might find these specific trails quite challenging.

You can expect diverse and rugged terrain, ranging from valley floors in the Apishapa River Valley to ascents towards mountain passes with the dramatic backdrop of the Spanish Peaks. The area is also known for unique geological features like dikes and crags, offering a varied riding experience.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike trails featured in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, the Salinas de Pisuerga Bridge – Aguilar Reservoir loop from Aguilar de Campoo is a 50 km circular route.

The trails vary significantly in length and duration. You'll find routes like the Cervera de Pisuerga – Salinas de Pisuerga Bridge loop from Cervera de Pisuerga at approximately 40 km, taking around 3 hours. Longer routes, such as the Collegiate Church of San Miguel – Salinas de Pisuerga Bridge loop from Aguilar de Campoo, can be up to 66 km and take over 5 hours to complete.

The region offers a wealth of natural and historical attractions. You can explore fascinating geological formations and caves, such as the Horadada Tunnel. Keep an eye out for natural monuments like Peña Mesa and the scenic Covalagua Waterfall, often found along or near these routes.

Absolutely. Aguilar is known for its distinctive geology. You might encounter formations like 'The Hogback' and the Apishapa Crag, which are exposed dikes. A particularly unusual sight is the Apishapa Arch, a short tunnel carved directly through a magmatic dike. For more on the region's natural wonders, you can visit Atlas Obscura.

While specific parking areas for each trail are not detailed, Aguilar serves as a gateway to the Spanish Peaks and is situated along the Highway of Legends. As a starting point for many outdoor activities, you can generally find parking within or near the towns where these loop trails begin, such as Aguilar de Campoo or Cervera de Pisuerga.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Aguilar, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding terrain, and the opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of southern Colorado away from traffic.

Aguilar, as the 'Gateway to the Spanish Peaks,' offers basic amenities. While specific cafes or pubs directly on the trails are rare, you can find local services, accommodation, and places to refuel in Aguilar itself or in nearby towns like Walsenburg and Trinidad, which are also along the Highway of Legends Scenic Byway.

Public transport options directly to the trailheads in this rural area are generally limited. It is recommended to plan for personal vehicle transport to reach the starting points of these gravel bike routes.