Colorado Mountain Biking & Road Biking in RMNP

Although Rocky Mountain National Park trails are closed to mountain bikers, there are many good biking trails and roads available in nearby Roosevelt National Forest.

Mountain biking on paved roads in Rocky Mountain National Park offers dramatic scenery. Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake Road and Old Fall River Road are frequented by road bikers looking for a challenge. If you choose to skip the uphill part, local companies will drive you to the top and you can ride downhill to town. 
 
The Park advises road bikers:

Be aware park roads have narrow or no shoulders, and often carry heavy traffic. To minimize conflicts with vehicles, plan your ride for the early morning hours. Try to be off the road in late afternoon when thunderstorms and lightening create serious hazards.
 
Winter roads in the Park open to bicycles:

• Upper Beaver Meadows Road
• Moraine Park Campground (closed loops)
• Endovalley Road
• Aspenglen Campground
• High Drive

• Old Fall River Road (gravel surface)and Trail Ridge Road (paved) open early (April) to bicycles, before they open to vehicles. Check with the park's Information Office 970-586-1206 regarding specific dates and maintenance closures.

Mountain bikers in the National Forests can choose from a wide variety of four-wheel roads and trails. They range from short to long, flat to steep and easy to difficult.
Click on the links at the left for information on roads and trails for mountain biking in Canyon Lakes District and Boulder Ranger District of Roosevelt National Forest. 

The Forest advises mountain bikers:

• Know the local trail rules.
• Courtesy is the key to safety.
• Minimize impact by staying on designated trails and avoiding muddy conditions.
• Never cut switchbacks.
• Announce yourself when preparing to pass, then pass with care.
• Always yield to hikers and horses.
• Ride at a safe and controlled speed.
• Be especially careful when visibility is limited.
• Wear appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and gloves.

Lake Estes in the town of Estes Park is ringed by a lovely, wide, paved path that meanders through a bird sanctuary, beside a golf course, along the Big Thompson River and Fish Creek, through the lakeside picnic area and along the lakeshore. Wonderful for strolling, biking, dog walking, birding, and watching the elk that like the golf course grass, it's a town treasure!

Hermit Park - This Larimer County Open Space is 1,362 acres surrounded by Roosevelt National Forest. It's 2 miles southeast of the town of Estes Park on U.S. Highway 36. Hiking trails, wetlands, horseback riding, mountain biking, picnicking and camping facilities are available.