The South Platte is one of my favorite zones in Colorado. Just outside the Denver metropolitan area lies an incredible network of mixed-surface roads and singletrack. Over the past five years, I’ve been refining this 157-mile route to highlight the most iconic trails and roads while fully circumnavigating the area. My goal in designing this route was to create a curated, thoughtful experience—offering enjoyable, low-stress riding with easy resupply points, all within a landscape that still feels wild and remote. This route is meant to be accessible for riders of all levels and can be completed over a variety of days depending on skill, fitness, and motivation. This route is best ridden in the Fall or Springtime; avoid summer as the hot temperatures and exposed terrain make for sub-optimal conditions. In winter, you will likely run into snowy, unrideable roads at the higher elevations. (The route tops out over 9,000ft in elevation)
This route was designed to be enjoyed on a variety of bikes—so ride what you have! For the best experience, I recommend running at least a 2” tire for added comfort and security on the trails. If you’re on something smaller, no worries—just take it easy in the sandy corners. Whether you’re on a rigid setup or full suspension, both will shine at different points along the way, as this route truly has a little bit of everything.
Starting at Reynolds Park just outside of Conifer, Colorado, riders are immediately rewarded with one of the best downhill stretches of flowy singletrack in the state. Don’t be discouraged by the short hike-a-bike at the start—it’s brief and absolutely worth it. From there, the trail drops smoothly all the way to the South Platte River. Expect roller-coaster-style terrain, epic views of the Cathedral Spires, and nonstop fun that will have you and your friends grinning ear to ear, hooting and hollering the whole way down.
The next stretch to Deckers is fast and smooth, blending dirt and pavement with plenty of opportunities to cool off in the river along the way. Don’t miss the chance for a swim as you ride riverside. In Deckers, you’ll find a few small amenities, but be sure to double-check the grill and convenience store hours before rolling out (see waypoints attached to the GPX). From there, it’s about 10 miles to West Creek—the gateway to the southern section of the South Platte. While several route options branch out here, I recommend the Turkey Rocks variation for its incredible campsites and the remote, wild feel it offers.
After descending into Florissant (a key resupply), the ride over to Lake George is a highlight of the route. The climb up to Wolf Tongue, followed by the doubletrack descent into Elevenmile Canyon, feels both sneaky and beautiful—winding through aspen forests before dropping to the roaring river. You’ll find plenty of great camping and picnic spots along this stretch.
At Lake George, you’ll hit your final major reliable resupply. Stock up on food here before heading out. A short stretch of busy pavement leads to Tarryall Road, where rolling hillsides and rugged peaks set the stage. Soon after, you’ll turn onto the infamous Matukat Road—arguably one of the most epic dirt roads in the South Platte. From here, it’s almost entirely dirt until the final paved climb back to Reynolds Park. Matukat dishes out massive views of Pikes Peak and the entire South Platte, with winding turns and striking granite formations that feel pulled straight from Yosemite. Camping is plentiful, both at established sites and dispersed spots. Be sure to stop at Goose Creek Campground for water and a refreshing leg soak.
The subsequent climbs up to Stony Pass can be steep and exposed, but pacing yourself pays off with incredible views. If you’re running low on energy, it’s easy to pull over and camp here without pressure to push on.
From Stony Pass, you drop into the Buffalo Creek zone—home to some of Colorado’s finest singletrack. Flowy trails for miles await. Follow the GPX for the best experience, though quicker, more direct options exist. Gaia GPS is your best friend here; lots of options exist, all at an approachable level of difficulty. With the Trailforks layer toggled on, you can dive a bit deeper and check out all of the trails in the area, or bookmark certain trails for future rides. After the climb up Nice Kitty, you’ll get a taste of the Colorado Trail by riding Segment 2. This stretch is fast, flowy, and mostly downhill. Before the final climb back to your car at Reynolds Park, take time to refill water and cool off at the South Platte River—a perfect finish to this big adventure.
Have questions or comments? Feel free to shoot me a DM on Instagram @kylerichardson or email me at kylerichardson.atx@gmail.com
