Denver's Evolving Cycling Infrastructure

In recent years, Denver has emerged as one of America's premier cycling cities, with expansive trail networks, innovative bike lanes, and community-focused initiatives transforming how residents navigate the Mile High City. Whether you're a daily bike commuter, weekend warrior, or casual rider, Denver's cycling infrastructure offers something for everyone—and it's only getting better.

Denver's Cycling Revolution: By the Numbers

Denver has exceeded its ambitious goal of building 125 miles of new bike infrastructure, completing an impressive 137 miles in recent years. This significant achievement represents the city's commitment to sustainable transportation alternatives and cyclist safety.

Already ranking among the top five cities in the U.S. for cycling according to Redfin's Bike Score, Denver boasts approximately 850 miles of paved, off-street biking and walking trails that connect all parts of the city—from downtown to the Cherry Creek Reservoir and beyond.

The Evolution of Bike Infrastructure

Denver's approach to cycling infrastructure has evolved significantly, focusing increasingly on what planners call "high-comfort bikeways"—infrastructure designed to make cyclists of all skill levels feel safe and confident. These include:

1. Protected Bike Lanes: Separated from motor vehicle traffic by physical barriers
2. Off-Street Trails: Completely separated from road traffic
3. Neighborhood Bikeways: Streets designed to slow and limit vehicle traffic

Despite this progress, Denver cyclists are familiar with the challenge of "one-off bikeways to nowhere" that suddenly stop or don't connect to longer routes. City officials acknowledge this issue and are actively working to create more cohesive networks through a planned "core network" of bikeways.

Notable Cycling Routes & Destinations

Denver's trail system offers incredible opportunities for both commuting and recreation. Here are some standout routes:

Red Rocks Connection

From downtown Denver, cyclists can access the world-famous Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre via the Bear Creek Trail. This 12.5-mile route from the South Platte Trail at Riverpoint at Sheridan Shopping Area follows Bear Creek west to Morrison. While it's a steady uphill journey, the destination makes every pedal stroke worthwhile. Nearby Mount Falcon Park and Matthews/Winters Park offer excellent mountain biking opportunities as well.

Cherry Creek Trail

This iconic 42-mile trail follows Cherry Creek from downtown Denver to Franktown, offering a scenic route with minimal street crossings and easy access to Cherry Creek Reservoir—a perfect spot for a mid-ride break or swim in summer months.

South Platte River Trail

This backbone of Denver's trail system runs north-south through the heart of the city, connecting numerous neighborhoods, parks, and cultural attractions along the way.

Neighborhood Connectivity

Denver's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) has recognized significant gaps in the current bike map where bikeways end without connecting to longer trails or lanes. Several neighborhoods face connectivity challenges—east Denver's Hale neighborhood has no bike lanes, while Montclair and Hilltop each have only one short bike lane that doesn't connect to broader networks.

Outside the recently constructed Sherman Street Bikeway, there remain few comfortable north-south biking routes in Capitol Hill, one of Denver's densest neighborhoods. Many of the existing bikeways rely heavily on "sharrows"—bicycle-shaped road markings that, while a Denver invention, have limitations in creating truly safe cycling spaces.

Looking Forward: Denver's Cycling Future

The city continues to invest in cycling infrastructure as part of its broader transportation strategy:

DOTI is developing a "core network" of bikeways designed to take direct paths across the city and accommodate higher volumes of cyclists and scooter users. This network aims to fill the frustrating gaps in the current system and create a more cohesive, connected experience for riders.

Denver estimates it will need approximately 400 more miles of bike lanes to meet the needs of its growing population by 2050. When the current five-year project is completed, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure will manage over 300 miles of bike lanes, not including those managed by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Community Engagement and Cycling Events

Denver's cycling culture extends beyond infrastructure to include numerous community events:

• Denver Century Ride: Held annually in June, this supported ride lets cyclists explore the city with options for 25, 50, 85, or 100-mile courses.
• Denver Cruiser Ride: These themed evening rides occur throughout summer months, usually on the third Wednesday, often including stops at local breweries.
• Bike to Work Day: Part of Colorado Bike Month in June, this annual event encourages commuters to swap their cars for bikes.

Tips for New Denver Cyclists

1. Use the Bike Streets Map to find comfortable routes throughout Denver.
2. Download the Denver Bike Map from the City and County of Denver website for the latest trail and bike lane information.
3. Consider an e-bike for tackling Denver's hills and longer distances with ease.
4. Report infrastructure issues through Denver's 311 service or by emailing bikes@denvergov.org.
5. Join local advocacy groups like Bicycle Colorado to stay informed about cycling initiatives and improvements.

The Bigger Picture: Cycling's Role in Denver's Future

As Denver continues to grow, cycling infrastructure plays a crucial role in addressing transportation needs, reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and promoting public health. The city's ongoing investments in bike lanes, trails, and other cycling amenities reflect a vision of Denver as a model for urban mobility.

For residents and visitors alike, Denver's expanding cycling options offer not just practical transportation alternatives but also new ways to experience the city's diverse neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Whether you're pedaling to work, exploring trails on the weekend, or joining a community ride, Denver's cycling infrastructure opens up a world of possibilities on two wheels.

Ready to explore Denver's cycling scene? Grab your bike, download the latest map, and discover why the Mile High City is becoming a cyclist's paradise.