Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Cottonwood Trail
Cycling
5.0
(13)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Tips
October 23, 2023
Cycling
May 9, 2022
Cycling
October 17, 2023
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Cottonwood Trail
5.0
(2)
138
riders
45.6km
02:54
480m
480m
Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure with the Olde Stage Road, Lefthand Canyon, and 63rd Street loop. This difficult route spans 28.3 miles (45.6 km) and climbs a significant 1564 feet (477 metres), taking you around 2 hours and 53 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse Colorado landscapes, from the rewarding views over northeast Boulder from the summit of Olde Stage Road to the scenic vistas along Lefthand Creek.
While generally rideable year-round, you should be cautious of potential ice in shaded canyon corners during colder months. Spring can bring sand to downhill stretches, so be aware of changing conditions. All segments of this loop are shared roads with moderate car traffic; for your safety, ride single file, especially in the narrower sections of Lefthand Canyon.
This loop is a classic for local cyclists, offering a true taste of the region's varied terrain. As you follow Lefthand Creek, keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer. The 63rd Street section provides a different perspective, opening up to wide-open rural views that complete this picturesque journey through Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks.
5.0
(1)
52
riders
43.1km
02:40
130m
130m
Cycle the moderate 26.8-mile Longmont-to-Boulder (LOBO) Regional Trail, enjoying diverse landscapes and mountain views.
2.0
(1)
7
riders
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Gunbarrel loop, a 20.6-mile (33.2 km) route that offers a gentle 487 feet (148 metres) of elevation gain. This journey, typically completed in about 1 hour and 59 minutes, takes you from the urban charm of East Pearl Street into the natural beauty of Boulder's Front Range foothills. You will cycle alongside Boulder Creek, passing through the University of Colorado campus, and enjoy expansive views over wetlands towards the iconic Boulder Flatirons near Twin Lakes. The path is primarily smooth and paved, providing a relaxed experience for all skill levels.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as this route benefits from Boulder's extensive network of dedicated bikeways and underpasses, ensuring minimal vehicle traffic. The paths are multi-use, so you will share them with pedestrians, especially in busier sections. You can easily access amenities like parks and connections to downtown Boulder, making it convenient to start your ride. Consider an early morning or late afternoon start to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer people on the shared paths.
This loop is a fantastic way to experience Boulder's unique blend of city and nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as raptors and deer, in the open space areas you traverse. After your ride, you will find several breweries conveniently located nearby, offering a perfect spot for a post-ride refreshment. The route highlights the thoughtful integration of cycling infrastructure within the Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.86 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 0 m
Weather
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Wednesday 17 June
35°C
21°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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