This Fort Collins gravel ride has excellent dirt road conditions. The roads were hard packed with very few washboards to deal with.
The start and end point of the ride near Old Town Fort Collins is ideal for grabbing a beer at New Belgium or Union Bar.
There was very little car (or bike traffic) the entire route. When the route traveled on busier paved roads, there was always adequate shoulder space.
We experienced the power of winds on the northern plains of Colorado. There were predicted 9mph winds but with no structures or hills to block the wind, it felt relentless.
Although the Poudre River Trail was well maintained and is a great way to traverse the city, it’s also well used. There were a lot of walkers and their dogs which caused us to slow down quite a bit.
Do this ride if you want to get some miles in during the winter months. This north of Fort Collins gravel ride is very exposed with no amenities (water, food or civilization), so on a hot summer day it may be uncomfortable.
No matter what the forecast calls for, when you are out on the plains, be prepared for more wind than the weather apps predict. We highly recommend riding with a friend or small group to share rotation at the front.
The Poudre River Trail has both a paved trail and a gravel single track trail that parallels it.
We started this ride near Old Fort Collins Heritage Park which is off of Linden Street. It is also spitting distance to the New Belgium Brewery (if you want a delicious post-ride beer!)
Laura & Rose
Laura Karpinski and Rose Barcklow are the creators of Gravel Bike Adventures. Click on the About page to learn more about them.
