Juniper Pass

The Echo Lake and Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass to Evergreen loop offers a challenging touring cycling experience through diverse Rocky Mountain landscapes. You'll pedal past the tranquil Echo Lake, climb through dense woods and aspen groves, and reach high alpine environments with expansive vistas. The route's mix of paved and smooth gravel sections provides a varied ride, showcasing the natural features along Echo Lake Evergreen bike loop.

This difficult 43.1-mile (69.3 km) route involves a substantial 5224 feet (1592 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete. It's best ridden between May and October, as high-altitude sections can be closed by snow outside these months. Be prepared for rapid weather changes and carry enough water and food, as amenities along Echo Lake Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass bike route are limited.

The route takes you over Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass, formerly known as Squaw Pass, which was renamed in 2021 to honor Owl Woman, a Cheyenne translator. This pass is a popular cycling spot in summer due to cooler temperatures and often marks the end of the bulk of climbing. The journey through the Arapaho National Forest provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and experiencing Colorado's unique high country.

The Echo Lake, Squaw Pass & the Scott Lancaster cycle trail loop from Idaho Springs offers a diverse and challenging ride through Colorado's mountains. You'll experience the intense climbs of Squaw Pass and Echo Lake, reaching elevations over 11,000 feet with stunning alpine vistas and glimpses of Mount Evans. The route then transitions to the flatter, paved Scott Lancaster Memorial Trail, winding alongside Clear Creek through forested mountains and past historic Idaho Springs.

This difficult 46.4-mile (74.6 km) touring cycling route involves a substantial 5505 feet (1678 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 26 minutes. Due to the high-altitude sections, cyclists should be prepared for rapidly changing weather and potential altitude sickness. Services are limited on the higher passes, so pack plenty of water and food.

This loop is a favorite among cyclists for its challenging nature and rewarding scenery, combining a strong test of endurance with historical landmarks. The Scott Lancaster Memorial Trail, named after a local cyclist, provides a unique blend of natural beauty and local history, highlighting the mineral belt and offering a different pace from the mountain climbs.

The Juniper and Mestaa'Ėhehe Passes loop via Little Bear Creek Road offers a challenging touring cycling experience through the stunning high-alpine environment of the Rocky Mountains. You'll traverse varied terrain, from newly paved roads to smooth gravel and even some steep, loose dirt sections on Little Bear Creek Road, all while soaking in magnificent vistas. This difficult route covers 28.7 miles (46.3 km) with a substantial 3937 feet (1200 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 39 minutes to complete.

To make the most of this high-altitude adventure, plan your visit between late June and early October, as higher sections are often closed due to snow and mud outside these months. Be prepared for rapid weather changes, including sudden temperature drops and strong winds, which are common at elevations where Echo Lake sits at 10,600 feet and Juniper Pass peaks at 11,130 feet. Remember that services are limited, so pack plenty of water and food.

This loop provides a unique opportunity to explore the Mount Blue Sky Wilderness and portions of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America. The route passes through lush forests and vibrant aspen groves, especially notable around Mestaa'Ėhehe Pass, which was historically renamed in 2022. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as mountain goats, as you cycle through the dramatic landscapes of the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests.