South Platte River and lake viewpoint
South Platte River and lake viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
South Platte River and lake viewpoint
Road cycling
5.0
(11)
Mountain biking
5.0
(2)
Tips
June 3, 2022
Road cycling
May 12, 2025
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near South Platte River and lake viewpoint
4.2
(5)
52
riders
50.7km
02:23
130m
130m
The South Platte River Trail Loop offers a versatile road cycling experience, blending Denver's urban landscape with tranquil riverside scenery. You'll pedal along the South Platte River, enjoying views of reservoirs and lakes, and even distant Rocky Mountain vistas in the southern sections near Littleton. This moderate 31.5-mile (50.7 km) loop, with a gentle 413 feet (126 metres) of elevation gain, is predominantly paved and takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete, making it suitable for a wide range of cyclists.
This multi-use pathway is generally well-maintained with clear signage and frequent rest stops, ensuring a pleasant ride. As it's a popular route, be prepared to share the path with pedestrians and runners. The trail is easily accessible throughout the Denver metropolitan area, and its flat profile means you can enjoy it without significant climbing challenges.
Beyond the ride itself, the South Platte River Trail Loop is a key part of Denver's extensive trail network, connecting to routes like the Cherry Creek Trail and Clear Creek Trail. This connectivity allows for longer adventures and provides access to numerous points of interest, including parks, breweries, and eateries. The trail system itself is a testament to a significant restoration effort following a major flood in 1965, transforming the riverbanks into valuable recreational spaces.
1
riders
66.3km
03:05
370m
370m
The Loop around Thornton offers a delightful road cycling experience, weaving through a varied landscape of urban parks, open prairies, and river corridors. You'll find yourself cruising past lakes, through neighborhoods, and enjoying distant views of the Rocky Mountain foothills, with notable spots like Walnut Creek Open Space and the South Platte River and lake viewpoint providing scenic breaks. The route is predominantly flat, making for a smooth ride on mostly paved multi-use paths, though some sections might feature crushed stone.
This moderate 41.2-mile (66.3 km) loop, with a gentle 1228 feet (374 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes to complete. It's an excellent option for cyclists of varying fitness levels looking for a consistent and manageable ride. While specific parking isn't detailed, the extensive network suggests accessible entry points, and it's a great choice for warmer winter days when other trails might be icy.
Thornton boasts an impressive network of over 140 miles of trails, connecting to major regional pathways like the South Platte River Trail. This route is part of a highly-rated, community-focused cycling environment, offering a chance to see local wildlife, particularly along the river stretches. It's a fantastic way to explore the area's natural features and open spaces without encountering significant climbs.
5.0
(2)
79
riders
52.6km
02:39
170m
170m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,550 m
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Friday 12 June
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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