Great Parks
| Great Parks North Jasper, AB to Missoula, MT 2 Map Set (741.0 mi.) |
GPX Data | Overview
Great Parks North Overview Image
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| 1. Jasper, AB to Fernie, BC (370.2 mi.) | Detail
Great Parks North Section 1 Detail Image
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| 2. Fernie, BC to Missoula, MT (370.8 mi.) | Detail
Great Parks North Section 2 Detail Image
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| Great Parks South Steamboat Springs, CO to Durango, CO 2 Map Set (695.0 mi.) |
GPX Data | Overview
Great Parks South Overview Image
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| 1. Steamboat Springs, CO to Poncha Springs, CO (386.8 mi.) | Detail
Great Parks South Section 1 Detail Image
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| 2. Poncha Springs, CO to Durango, CO (305.5 mi.) | Detail
Great Parks South Section 2 Detail Image
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Experience spectacular parks in the United States and Canada.
These two separate routes traverse the Rocky Mountain national parks of Canada and the U.S. When combined with TransAmerica Trail sections 4, 5, and 6, it is a continuous route from Jasper, Alberta, to Durango, Colorado. Below, you'll find details on both the North and South routes.
Great Parks North
Following the spine of the northern Rocky Mountains, this route ambles through some of the most sublime (and accessible) mountain scenery found in Canada and the continental United States.
Even in the height of summer, cyclists must be prepared for cold nights and occasional snow in the higher elevations. The Canadian parks, with their wide road shoulders, provide excellent cycling conditions, though motorized traffic during the tourist season is heavy. Towns outside the parks, such as Fernie, British Columbia, offer information and ample opportunities for the off-road cycling enthusiast. Fascinating side trips abound for natural and geological sightseeing, which include aerial trams, hiking onto glaciers, and whitewater rafting. So, allow extra time beyond bicycling for these activities.
The route begins in Jasper, Alberta, a busy tourist center in the heart of Jasper National Park, one of the five Canadian Parks the route traverses. You will be amazed by the scenery: glacial lakes, dramatic waterfalls, piercingly steep mountains covered with glaciers, and a tremendous variety of wildlife; you will stop frequent just to marvel at the beauty. Be sure to ride cautiously among the tourists in recreational vehicles. As you head south, over several passes through the parks, take the time to go to Lake Louise and Banff, which both offer a wide variety of tourist services and charm. After 230 miles of amazing vistas, you'll leave Kootenay National Park and descend steeply into the town of Radium Hot Springs. Stop for an enjoyable soak in the soothing hot mineral pools. From Radium Hot Springs southward to Elko, the western side of the Rockies offers gentler cycling following the Columbia and Kootenay river systems. At Elko, the route turns east over the Continental Divide through a series of small mining communities. You'll see the prairies begin on the eastern slope and traverse the foothills through Waterton Lakes National Park, another mountain jewel of the Canadian Parks. The border crossing into the United States at Chief Mountain is only open from mid-May through mid-September, and then you're in Glacier National Park in Montana, crossing the Divide back to the western side on the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road. You'll find no major climbs or descents after leaving the park, and the route mainly follows river valleys bracketed by mountain ranges all the way into Missoula.
Great Parks South
This route, entirely in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, offers challenging biking, including riding on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the continental United States, located in Rocky Mountain National Park. Eleven miles of it are above treeline.
The cyclist is rewarded by a continuous setting of dramatic mountain scenery, national forests, parks, monuments, and many climbs and descents over passes. Off-road mountain-biking opportunities abound at the various ski hills along the route, which offer singletrack riding on quiet forest trails, serviced by bustling tourist villages.
The route begins in northern Colorado in the ski town of Steamboat Springs. After a gut-busting climb out of Steamboat Springs to Rabbit Ears Pass and Muddy Pass, you'll find open grazing land and national forest lands heading to Granby, near the southern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Traffic can be heavy approaching the park and throughout the park, and you'll spend many hours climbing and descending Trail Ridge Road. From Estes Park to Georgetown, this area is the playground for Denver, the surrounding communities on the Front Range and also much of the nation. Communities from Keystone to Breckenridge have become major year-round tourist destinations, so be prepared for traffic and recreational vehicles. There is a very good paved trail system in Summit County. South of Fairplay, the route becomes rural and traverses the high, open land of South Park. After crossing Trout Creek Pass, the route drops into the Arkansas River Valley near Buena Vista. The western slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is old mining country, from Salida all the way into Durango. Around Dolores, the mountains give way to the dry, open Four Corners region, highlighted by Mesa Verde National Park. Durango is the southern terminus of the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the only remaining regularly scheduled narrow-gauge passenger train.
Photo by Chuck Haney
Great Parks North
The Great Parks North terrain is a series of climbs and descents over passes into various river valleys. In the southern part of the route, you'll stay in the valleys and experience rolling terrain. The route crosses the Continental Divide three times.
Great Parks South
On Great Parks South, you will cross eleven mountain passes, and six of these will be over the Continental Divide. The highest point on the route is at 12,183 feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. The route follows a few river valleys, but for the most part you will be either climbing or descending.
| Great Parks North - Main Route | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section | Distance | Elevation | Total Climb | Avg. Climb/mile |
| Total | 741.0 miles | Minimum: 2,470 ft. Maximum: 6,825 ft. |
40,775 ft. south bound 40,765 ft. north bound |
55 ft. per mi. south bound 55 ft. per mi. north bound |
| 1 | 370.2 miles | Minimum: 2,470 ft. Maximum: 6,825 ft. |
21,055 ft. south bound 21,015 ft. north bound |
57 ft. per mi. south bound 57 ft. per mi. north bound |
| 2 | 370.8 miles | Minimum: 2,895 ft. Maximum: 6,650 ft. |
19,720 ft. south bound 19,750 ft. north bound |
53 ft. per mi. south bound 53 ft. per mi. north bound |
| Great Parks North Alternates | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Section | Distance | Total Climb | Avg. Climb/mi |
| Banff Spur | 1 | 19.0 miles | 910 ft. east bound 1,330 ft. west bound |
48 ft. per mi. east bound 70 ft. per mi. west bound |
| Gravel Alternate | 1 | 20.9 miles | 1,425 ft. south bound 1,310 ft. north bound |
68 ft. per mi. south bound 63 ft. per mi. north bound |
| Tobacco Valley Alternate | 2 | 100.0 miles | 4,955 ft. south bound 4,950 ft. north bound |
50 ft. per mi. south bound 50 ft. per mi. north bound |
| Great Parks South | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section | Distance | Elevation | Total Climb | Avg. Climb/mile |
| Total | 695.0 miles | Minimum: 5,805 ft. Maximum: 12,175 ft. |
53,075 ft. south bound 53,293 ft. north bound |
76 ft. per mi. south bound 77 ft. per mi. north bound |
| 1 | 386.8 miles | Minimum: 6,700 ft. Maximum: 12,175 ft. |
30,930 ft. south bound 30,065 ft. north bound |
80 ft. per mi. south bound 78 ft. per mi. north bound |
| 2 | 305.5 miles | Minimum: 5,805 ft. Maximum: 11,320 ft. |
22,185 ft. south bound 23,228 ft. north bound |
73 ft. per mi. south bound 76 ft. per mi. north bound |
| Great Parks South Alternates | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Section | Distance | Total Climb | Avg. Climb/mi |
| Berthoud Pass Alternate | 1 | 47.0 miles | 4,095 ft. south bound 3,795 ft. north bound |
87 ft. per mi. south bound 81 ft. per mi. north bound |
| Mesa Verde Spur | 2 | 52.3 miles | 5,890 ft. out and back |
113 ft. per mi. out and back |
Great Parks North
This route should be ridden from early summer to mid-fall (typically June to September). Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is usually closed until early to mid June and has limited hours for cyclists which is noted on the map. Snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains so be prepared with cold weather gear. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.
Jasper can be reached by rail service from Edmonton, Alberta. Along the entire length of the route, small towns at regular intervals provide ample services, but plan ahead due to crowded tourist conditions, especially in the Canadian Park System and in Glacier National Park. Reservations at both hostels and campgrounds are recommended. For off-road bicycling and primitive camping, a water purifier is necessary.
Great Parks South
This route can be ridden from early summer to mid-fall (typically June to September). Trail Ridge Road is closed between October and June. Snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Altitude sickness can slow you down, so preparation for the high altitude is important. Arriving a few days before your trip begins is a good way to acclimate.
In Colorado, high-altitude services from campground water to grocery stores can shut down early in the autumn depending on weather. A water purifier is recommended. Due to high levels of tourist activity in the summer, reservations for accommodations and campgrounds are recommended.
Great Parks North and South may be connected into one route by adding TransAmerica Trail Sections 4, 5, and 6.
Some campgrounds will charge a cyclist traveling alone less if they have hiker/biker sites, but often they will charge the price of a regular tent site, and that can easily be $10-$20/night. The maps list churches that have opened their doors to cyclists, but they aren't all that closely spaced. If you're friendly and ask around, you can often get yourself invited to camp in a yard. In the U.S. our routes go through national forests (moreso in the west) and you are allowed to camp anywhere on national forest land as long as you "pack it in, pack it out." Many city parks are free to camp in.
You may also wish to sign up with Warmshowers, a reciprocal hospitality site for bicycle travelers, for other overnight options.
Route Highlights
- Jasper National Park, Great Parks North Section 1
- Banff National Park, Great Parks North Section 1
- Kootenay National Park, Great Parks North Section 1
- Waterton Lakes National Park, Great Parks North Section 2
- Going-to-the-Sun Rd., Great Parks North Section 2
- Glacier National Park, Great Parks North Section 2
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Parks South Section 1
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Great Parks South Section 2
- Telluride, Colorado, Great Parks South Section 2
- Mesa Verde National Park, Mesa Verde Spur, Great Parks South Section 2
More Route Resources
- Great Parks North and South may be connected into one route by adding TransAmerica Trail Sections 4, 5, and 6.
- Sun Dog Tours Shuttle Service between Jasper and Banff
- U.S./Canada Visa Information
- U.S. Chief Mountain border crossing
- Canadian Chief Mountain border crossing
- Roosville Border Crossing
- Bicycling in Glacier National Park
- Going-to-the-Sun Road Information
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Summit County, Colorado bicycling information
- Mesa Verde National Park bicycling restrictions
- Connect and share photos with other riders on Instagram: #acaGrParksN and #acaGrParksS
RIDING CONDITIONS
Roads in Canada are generally good to excellent. There are wide shoulders along most of the highways on the route, but don’t let it lull you into a careless state of mind. Slow-moving cars and RVs often drive on this shoulder to let the faster traffic pass. Near towns, important intersections, and turn-outs, the wide shoulder becomes a second driving lane. Use extra caution in these places.
With the exception of the National Park roads, traffic tends to be light to moderate. Near and in any of the parks cyclists will have to contend with higher traffic levels and RV drivers who are inexperienced. To avoid heavy traffic, try to ride early in the day and make yourself and your bike visible with bright clothing or a reflective triangle. During the summer, traffic from Jasper southward to Banff is extremely heavy. Wildlife is abundant; ride slowly and cautiously past any animals so you do not spook them.
Throughout the entire Park system, you will be either climbing or descending. The route finally levels out when it reaches the Columbia and Kootenay river valleys.
South of Jasper, the route uses the quieter and more scenic PR 93A. This is a narrow road with a deteriorating surface which rejoins the wider PR 93 at Athabasca Falls.
Between Sunwapta Pass and Lake Louise, dangerous cracks and large culverts interrupt the road and shoulder surface. Orange warning signs are posted at the worst of them, but be prepared because many aren’t signed. Though it may be difficult, go slowly when descending.
At Castle Junction the 19-mile Banff Spur heads southeastward to Banff. Most of this is on PR 1A, the less traveled, but still busy narrow and winding old highway. The Banff Legacy Trail and several roads lead into town. This trail also continues east to Canmore.
During the summer months there is a shuttle service that will transport passengers with bicycles between the Jasper and Banff hostels. Contact SunDog Tours at 780-852-4056 or 888-786-3641, or www.sundogtours.com.
Between Castle Junction and Radium Hot Springs, stock up on food and water before riding the nearly serviceless 65.2-mile stretch through Kootenay National Park.
West Side Rd. south of Invermere, Wardner-Fort Steele Rd. and Jaffray-Baynes Lake Rd. are all lightly trafficked two-lane roads with no shoulders. These parallel roads avoid the more heavily traveled PR 93/95.
A quiet 20.9-mile Gravel Alternate between Elko and Fernie offers respite from the high traffic levels on PR 3. This is also a section of the Elk Valley Trail. A brochure, distributed by the Fernie Trails Alliance, can be found at: advcy.link/FTA.
CLIMATE
The most reliable characteristic of the Canadian Rocky Mountains weather is its variability. The climate can vary from one valley to the next, and indeed within very short distances. Local climatic conditions are affected by altitude, proximity to large lakes, wind flows through the valleys, and the rain shadow effect of the high mountains. It is always best to be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.
Updated: Nov 12, 2019RIDING CONDITIONS
In Canada you’ll find good to excellent roads with moderate shoulders. Traffic is usually light to moderate, although there is some truck traffic, particularly in the coal-mining area near Fernie and Sparwood. The Elk Valley Trail is part of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, and is not recommended for road bikes because of its mixed surfaces and steep climbs. Around Crowsnest Pass, recreational traffic will be heavy on weekends.
The border crossing on Chief Mountain International Highway is closed from mid-September through mid-May. South of the border, there is a stretch of steep hills heading toward Babb.
Snow closes Going-to-the-Sun Rd. in Glacier National Park between Saint Mary and West Glacier from about mid-September to mid-June. For current road status, see advcy.link/glacierroadstatus. The road gets very heavy traffic during the summer. It is advisable to ride early in the day and avoid weekend travel. Maximize your visibility with a safety vest, triangle, or flag. The west side of Logan Pass is steep, narrow and has many blind corners, and there is a tunnel and drainage grates. Bicycle restrictions are in effect from June 15th through Labor Day. For northbound (uphill) cyclists ONLY, the section of the road from Logan Creek to Logan Pass is prohibited between 11 A.M. and 4 P.M. Between Sprague Creek Campground and Apgar Campground bicycles are prohibited between 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. IN BOTH DIRECTIONS.
Roads in Montana usually range from fair to good. Instead of using busy U.S. 2 between West Glacier and Columbia Falls, the route follows bike paths and side roads with 2.7 miles of gravel which becomes more washboarded as summer progresses. We highly recommend you use this route to avoid a dangerously narrow, curvy, shoulderless section of U.S. 2 east of Columbia Falls. Ride cautiously on shoulderless SR 35 south of Bigfork. Traffic increases around most towns, and you’ll encounter logging trucks along SR 83 and SR 200. Boy Scout Rd. offers a respite from SR 83 traffic but lacks services. South of Seeley Lake, SR 83 becomes narrow and curvy, especially near Salmon Lake. On SR 200, shoulders are wide but beware of the deep rumble strips.
The Tobacco Valley Alternate, which bypasses Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks, is 100 miles in length. South of the border, U.S. 93 carries some high speed traffic and trucks, so the route uses parallel smaller roads wherever possible. To complete a loop to Fernie, BC, you will need section 1 of the Great Parks North Route.
CLIMATE
Perhaps the most influential aspect of the northern Rocky Moun-tains is the prevailing westerly winds. These winds bring moist Pacific air from the ocean, and as this moist air is forced up over the mountain peaks, particularly the mountains of the Continental Divide, it cools. As the air is pushed up the temperature lowers, and this causes the moisture in the air to condense and precipitate. When the air descends on the downwind side of the mountains, it warms and stops precipitating. On occasion the wind comes from the east, pushing continental air up over the mountains. In this case, the normal situation is reversed, and precipitation is deposited on the Front Ranges. This upslope weather generally happens in the early summer.
Updated: Nov 12, 2019RIDING CONDITIONS
Colorado is in the process of installing rumble strips on highways that have been resurfaced, so ride carefully along these roads.
This route is characterized by following river valleys and climbing over mountain passes at high altitudes. It is a strenuous route.
Steamboat Springs is a busy tourist town, as are many of the towns in this section. The traffic on U.S. 40 will diminish the farther away you go from town. The shoulder varies in width from none to six feet. SR 14 and SR 125 over Willow Creek Pass are narrow but lightly traveled.
U.S. 34 heading into and out of Rocky Mountain National Park has high levels of tourist traffic. Near and in any national park cyclists will have to contend with higher traffic levels and RV drivers who are inexperienced. To avoid heavy traffic try to ride early in the day and make yourself and your bike visible. In the Park, Trail Ridge Rd. is one of the great alpine roads in the U.S. Its winding course takes you 12,183' above sea level through the high alpine tundra ecosystem.
If you choose the Berthoud Pass Alternate you’ll miss Rocky Mountain National Park. But the Alternate is 99 miles shorter than the main route and uses U.S. 40.
Between Central City and I-70 the privately owned Central City Parkway is a steady 7-8% grade for 8 miles. It has good shoulders.
The route parallels I-70 on frontage roads until the climb over Loveland Pass. Then it descends to the resort towns of Keystone, Dillon, Frisco and Breckenridge where the route follows side roads and various bike paths. Recreational facilities here attract many weekenders and vacationers from the more densely populated eastern slope of the Rockies. Traffic can be heavy, but the route mostly avoids this traffic by using bike paths through the area. See advcy.link/summitcomap for a map of Summit County bike paths.
SR 9 up and over Hoosier Pass is narrow and carries heavy traffic during the summer. Extra caution is advised. It is a moderately difficult climb. Riders gain 1,500' within 10 miles in order to reach the top of the pass.
After Hoosier Pass the country spreads out and traffic thins. Be careful on U.S. 285 north of Trout Creek Pass due to narrow shoulders, rumble strips and a higher traffic volume. South of the pass there are moderate shoulders to Poncha Springs.
NOTE: After October 1st, many private and U.S.F.S. campgrounds close for the winter or have no water available. Call ahead to verify conditions if you are traveling after this date.
CLIMATE
Most of Colorado has a cool and invigorating climate that could be termed a highland or mountain climate of a continental location. Humidity is generally quite low: this favors rapid evaporation and a relatively comfortable feeling even on hot days. The thin atmosphere allows greater penetration of solar radiation and results in pleasant daytime conditions.
The climates of local areas are profoundly affected by differences in elevation, and to a lesser degree, by the orientation of mountain ranges and valleys with respect to general air movements. Prevailing air currents reach Colorado from westerly directions.
Updated: Sep 24, 2018RIDING CONDITIONS
Heading west from Poncha Springs, the route uses U.S. 50 until reaching Montrose. The highway shoulder’s widths change and traffic levels increase around the Curecanti National Recreation Area and within towns. Be careful when crossing the rumble strips located on the newer stretches of the highway.
All of the highways on this section are two-lane roads with shoulders varying from none to 10-feet wide.
After leaving the wide Uncompahgre River valley and Ridgway, the route heads back into the foothills of the higher mountains and over the Dallas Divide. Many of the passes along the route have climbing lanes for slower-moving traffic.
Ride carefully along the San Miguel River between Placerville and the turn-off to Telluride. The highway is continuously winding with short sight lines, and has high levels of summer traffic. If you choose, there is a bike path along the highway to go into historic Telluride.
Traffic will increase in the towns of Cortez and Mancos. U.S. 160 has a wide shoulder as you head into Durango, the end of the route.
Near and in any national parks cyclists will have to contend with higher traffic levels and RV drivers who are inexperienced. To avoid heavy traffic try to ride early in the day and make yourself and your bike visible.
Mesa Verde National Park is known as a World Class Park and an out and back spur is shown. However it’s not particularly bicycle-friendly, especially during the summer tourist season, because the roads have no shoulders. To visit the major ruins will require several thousand feet of climbing and descending. One option for viewing the ruins is to camp at Morefield Campground and reserve a spot on one of the bus tours. Go to this link for cycling restrictions within the park: www.nps.gov/meve/planyourvisit/gettingaround.htm.
NOTE: After October first, many private and U.S.F.S. campgrounds close for the winter or have no water available. Call ahead to verify conditions if you are travelling after this date.
CLIMATE
The rugged topography of western Colorado causes large variations in climate within short distances, and few climatic generalizations apply to the whole area. Summer in the mountains is a cool and refreshing season. At typical mountain stations the average July temperature is in the neighborhood of 60 degrees F. The highest temperatures are usually in the 70’s and 80’s, but may reach 95 degrees F. Above 7,000 feet, the nights are quite cool throughout the summer, while bright sunshine makes the days comfortably warm.
Updated: Dec 19, 2017-
GPX Data |
Overview
Great Parks North Overview Image
- 1. Jasper, AB to Fernie, BC (370.2 mi.)
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Detail
| Map Updates and Corrections
Great Parks North Section 1 Detail Image
- 2. Fernie, BC to Missoula, MT (370.8 mi.)
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Detail
| Map Updates and Corrections
Great Parks North Section 2 Detail Image
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GPX Data |
Overview
Great Parks South Overview Image
- 1. Steamboat Springs, CO to Poncha Springs, CO (386.8 mi.)
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Detail
| Map Updates and Corrections
Great Parks South Section 1 Detail Image
- 2. Poncha Springs, CO to Durango, CO (305.5 mi.)
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Detail
| Map Updates and Corrections
Great Parks South Section 2 Detail Image
Experience spectacular parks in the United States and Canada.
These two separate routes traverse the Rocky Mountain national parks of Canada and the U.S. When combined with TransAmerica Trail sections 4, 5, and 6, it is a continuous route from Jasper, Alberta, to Durango, Colorado. Below, you'll find details on both the North and South routes.
Great Parks North
Following the spine of the northern Rocky Mountains, this route ambles through some of the most sublime (and accessible) mountain scenery found in Canada and the continental United States.
Even in the height of summer, cyclists must be prepared for cold nights and occasional snow in the higher elevations. The Canadian parks, with their wide road shoulders, provide excellent cycling conditions, though motorized traffic during the tourist season is heavy. Towns outside the parks, such as Fernie, British Columbia, offer information and ample opportunities for the off-road cycling enthusiast. Fascinating side trips abound for natural and geological sightseeing, which include aerial trams, hiking onto glaciers, and whitewater rafting. So, allow extra time beyond bicycling for these activities.
The route begins in Jasper, Alberta, a busy tourist center in the heart of Jasper National Park, one of the five Canadian Parks the route traverses. You will be amazed by the scenery: glacial lakes, dramatic waterfalls, piercingly steep mountains covered with glaciers, and a tremendous variety of wildlife; you will stop frequent just to marvel at the beauty. Be sure to ride cautiously among the tourists in recreational vehicles. As you head south, over several passes through the parks, take the time to go to Lake Louise and Banff, which both offer a wide variety of tourist services and charm. After 230 miles of amazing vistas, you'll leave Kootenay National Park and descend steeply into the town of Radium Hot Springs. Stop for an enjoyable soak in the soothing hot mineral pools. From Radium Hot Springs southward to Elko, the western side of the Rockies offers gentler cycling following the Columbia and Kootenay river systems. At Elko, the route turns east over the Continental Divide through a series of small mining communities. You'll see the prairies begin on the eastern slope and traverse the foothills through Waterton Lakes National Park, another mountain jewel of the Canadian Parks. The border crossing into the United States at Chief Mountain is only open from mid-May through mid-September, and then you're in Glacier National Park in Montana, crossing the Divide back to the western side on the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road. You'll find no major climbs or descents after leaving the park, and the route mainly follows river valleys bracketed by mountain ranges all the way into Missoula.
Great Parks South
This route, entirely in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, offers challenging biking, including riding on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the continental United States, located in Rocky Mountain National Park. Eleven miles of it are above treeline.
The cyclist is rewarded by a continuous setting of dramatic mountain scenery, national forests, parks, monuments, and many climbs and descents over passes. Off-road mountain-biking opportunities abound at the various ski hills along the route, which offer singletrack riding on quiet forest trails, serviced by bustling tourist villages.
The route begins in northern Colorado in the ski town of Steamboat Springs. After a gut-busting climb out of Steamboat Springs to Rabbit Ears Pass and Muddy Pass, you'll find open grazing land and national forest lands heading to Granby, near the southern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Traffic can be heavy approaching the park and throughout the park, and you'll spend many hours climbing and descending Trail Ridge Road. From Estes Park to Georgetown, this area is the playground for Denver, the surrounding communities on the Front Range and also much of the nation. Communities from Keystone to Breckenridge have become major year-round tourist destinations, so be prepared for traffic and recreational vehicles. There is a very good paved trail system in Summit County. South of Fairplay, the route becomes rural and traverses the high, open land of South Park. After crossing Trout Creek Pass, the route drops into the Arkansas River Valley near Buena Vista. The western slope of the Colorado Rocky Mountains is old mining country, from Salida all the way into Durango. Around Dolores, the mountains give way to the dry, open Four Corners region, highlighted by Mesa Verde National Park. Durango is the southern terminus of the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the only remaining regularly scheduled narrow-gauge passenger train.
Photo by Chuck Haney
RIDING CONDITIONS
Roads in Canada are generally good to excellent. There are wide shoulders along most of the highways on the route, but don’t let it lull you into a careless state of mind. Slow-moving cars and RVs often drive on this shoulder to let the faster traffic pass. Near towns, important intersections, and turn-outs, the wide shoulder becomes a second driving lane. Use extra caution in these places.
With the exception of the National Park roads, traffic tends to be light to moderate. Near and in any of the parks cyclists will have to contend with higher traffic levels and RV drivers who are inexperienced. To avoid heavy traffic, try to ride early in the day and make yourself and your bike visible with bright clothing or a reflective triangle. During the summer, traffic from Jasper southward to Banff is extremely heavy. Wildlife is abundant; ride slowly and cautiously past any animals so you do not spook them.
Throughout the entire Park system, you will be either climbing or descending. The route finally levels out when it reaches the Columbia and Kootenay river valleys.
South of Jasper, the route uses the quieter and more scenic PR 93A. This is a narrow road with a deteriorating surface which rejoins the wider PR 93 at Athabasca Falls.
Between Sunwapta Pass and Lake Louise, dangerous cracks and large culverts interrupt the road and shoulder surface. Orange warning signs are posted at the worst of them, but be prepared because many aren’t signed. Though it may be difficult, go slowly when descending.
At Castle Junction the 19-mile Banff Spur heads southeastward to Banff. Most of this is on PR 1A, the less traveled, but still busy narrow and winding old highway. The Banff Legacy Trail and several roads lead into town. This trail also continues east to Canmore.
During the summer months there is a shuttle service that will transport passengers with bicycles between the Jasper and Banff hostels. Contact SunDog Tours at 780-852-4056 or 888-786-3641, or www.sundogtours.com.
Between Castle Junction and Radium Hot Springs, stock up on food and water before riding the nearly serviceless 65.2-mile stretch through Kootenay National Park.
West Side Rd. south of Invermere, Wardner-Fort Steele Rd. and Jaffray-Baynes Lake Rd. are all lightly trafficked two-lane roads with no shoulders. These parallel roads avoid the more heavily traveled PR 93/95.
A quiet 20.9-mile Gravel Alternate between Elko and Fernie offers respite from the high traffic levels on PR 3. This is also a section of the Elk Valley Trail. A brochure, distributed by the Fernie Trails Alliance, can be found at: advcy.link/FTA.
CLIMATE
The most reliable characteristic of the Canadian Rocky Mountains weather is its variability. The climate can vary from one valley to the next, and indeed within very short distances. Local climatic conditions are affected by altitude, proximity to large lakes, wind flows through the valleys, and the rain shadow effect of the high mountains. It is always best to be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.
Updated: Nov 12, 2019RIDING CONDITIONS
In Canada you’ll find good to excellent roads with moderate shoulders. Traffic is usually light to moderate, although there is some truck traffic, particularly in the coal-mining area near Fernie and Sparwood. The Elk Valley Trail is part of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, and is not recommended for road bikes because of its mixed surfaces and steep climbs. Around Crowsnest Pass, recreational traffic will be heavy on weekends.
The border crossing on Chief Mountain International Highway is closed from mid-September through mid-May. South of the border, there is a stretch of steep hills heading toward Babb.
Snow closes Going-to-the-Sun Rd. in Glacier National Park between Saint Mary and West Glacier from about mid-September to mid-June. For current road status, see advcy.link/glacierroadstatus. The road gets very heavy traffic during the summer. It is advisable to ride early in the day and avoid weekend travel. Maximize your visibility with a safety vest, triangle, or flag. The west side of Logan Pass is steep, narrow and has many blind corners, and there is a tunnel and drainage grates. Bicycle restrictions are in effect from June 15th through Labor Day. For northbound (uphill) cyclists ONLY, the section of the road from Logan Creek to Logan Pass is prohibited between 11 A.M. and 4 P.M. Between Sprague Creek Campground and Apgar Campground bicycles are prohibited between 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. IN BOTH DIRECTIONS.
Roads in Montana usually range from fair to good. Instead of using busy U.S. 2 between West Glacier and Columbia Falls, the route follows bike paths and side roads with 2.7 miles of gravel which becomes more washboarded as summer progresses. We highly recommend you use this route to avoid a dangerously narrow, curvy, shoulderless section of U.S. 2 east of Columbia Falls. Ride cautiously on shoulderless SR 35 south of Bigfork. Traffic increases around most towns, and you’ll encounter logging trucks along SR 83 and SR 200. Boy Scout Rd. offers a respite from SR 83 traffic but lacks services. South of Seeley Lake, SR 83 becomes narrow and curvy, especially near Salmon Lake. On SR 200, shoulders are wide but beware of the deep rumble strips.
The Tobacco Valley Alternate, which bypasses Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks, is 100 miles in length. South of the border, U.S. 93 carries some high speed traffic and trucks, so the route uses parallel smaller roads wherever possible. To complete a loop to Fernie, BC, you will need section 1 of the Great Parks North Route.
CLIMATE
Perhaps the most influential aspect of the northern Rocky Moun-tains is the prevailing westerly winds. These winds bring moist Pacific air from the ocean, and as this moist air is forced up over the mountain peaks, particularly the mountains of the Continental Divide, it cools. As the air is pushed up the temperature lowers, and this causes the moisture in the air to condense and precipitate. When the air descends on the downwind side of the mountains, it warms and stops precipitating. On occasion the wind comes from the east, pushing continental air up over the mountains. In this case, the normal situation is reversed, and precipitation is deposited on the Front Ranges. This upslope weather generally happens in the early summer.
Updated: Nov 12, 2019RIDING CONDITIONS
Colorado is in the process of installing rumble strips on highways that have been resurfaced, so ride carefully along these roads.
This route is characterized by following river valleys and climbing over mountain passes at high altitudes. It is a strenuous route.
Steamboat Springs is a busy tourist town, as are many of the towns in this section. The traffic on U.S. 40 will diminish the farther away you go from town. The shoulder varies in width from none to six feet. SR 14 and SR 125 over Willow Creek Pass are narrow but lightly traveled.
U.S. 34 heading into and out of Rocky Mountain National Park has high levels of tourist traffic. Near and in any national park cyclists will have to contend with higher traffic levels and RV drivers who are inexperienced. To avoid heavy traffic try to ride early in the day and make yourself and your bike visible. In the Park, Trail Ridge Rd. is one of the great alpine roads in the U.S. Its winding course takes you 12,183' above sea level through the high alpine tundra ecosystem.
If you choose the Berthoud Pass Alternate you’ll miss Rocky Mountain National Park. But the Alternate is 99 miles shorter than the main route and uses U.S. 40.
Between Central City and I-70 the privately owned Central City Parkway is a steady 7-8% grade for 8 miles. It has good shoulders.
The route parallels I-70 on frontage roads until the climb over Loveland Pass. Then it descends to the resort towns of Keystone, Dillon, Frisco and Breckenridge where the route follows side roads and various bike paths. Recreational facilities here attract many weekenders and vacationers from the more densely populated eastern slope of the Rockies. Traffic can be heavy, but the route mostly avoids this traffic by using bike paths through the area. See advcy.link/summitcomap for a map of Summit County bike paths.
SR 9 up and over Hoosier Pass is narrow and carries heavy traffic during the summer. Extra caution is advised. It is a moderately difficult climb. Riders gain 1,500' within 10 miles in order to reach the top of the pass.
After Hoosier Pass the country spreads out and traffic thins. Be careful on U.S. 285 north of Trout Creek Pass due to narrow shoulders, rumble strips and a higher traffic volume. South of the pass there are moderate shoulders to Poncha Springs.
NOTE: After October 1st, many private and U.S.F.S. campgrounds close for the winter or have no water available. Call ahead to verify conditions if you are traveling after this date.
CLIMATE
Most of Colorado has a cool and invigorating climate that could be termed a highland or mountain climate of a continental location. Humidity is generally quite low: this favors rapid evaporation and a relatively comfortable feeling even on hot days. The thin atmosphere allows greater penetration of solar radiation and results in pleasant daytime conditions.
The climates of local areas are profoundly affected by differences in elevation, and to a lesser degree, by the orientation of mountain ranges and valleys with respect to general air movements. Prevailing air currents reach Colorado from westerly directions.
Updated: Sep 24, 2018RIDING CONDITIONS
Heading west from Poncha Springs, the route uses U.S. 50 until reaching Montrose. The highway shoulder’s widths change and traffic levels increase around the Curecanti National Recreation Area and within towns. Be careful when crossing the rumble strips located on the newer stretches of the highway.
All of the highways on this section are two-lane roads with shoulders varying from none to 10-feet wide.
After leaving the wide Uncompahgre River valley and Ridgway, the route heads back into the foothills of the higher mountains and over the Dallas Divide. Many of the passes along the route have climbing lanes for slower-moving traffic.
Ride carefully along the San Miguel River between Placerville and the turn-off to Telluride. The highway is continuously winding with short sight lines, and has high levels of summer traffic. If you choose, there is a bike path along the highway to go into historic Telluride.
Traffic will increase in the towns of Cortez and Mancos. U.S. 160 has a wide shoulder as you head into Durango, the end of the route.
Near and in any national parks cyclists will have to contend with higher traffic levels and RV drivers who are inexperienced. To avoid heavy traffic try to ride early in the day and make yourself and your bike visible.
Mesa Verde National Park is known as a World Class Park and an out and back spur is shown. However it’s not particularly bicycle-friendly, especially during the summer tourist season, because the roads have no shoulders. To visit the major ruins will require several thousand feet of climbing and descending. One option for viewing the ruins is to camp at Morefield Campground and reserve a spot on one of the bus tours. Go to this link for cycling restrictions within the park: www.nps.gov/meve/planyourvisit/gettingaround.htm.
NOTE: After October first, many private and U.S.F.S. campgrounds close for the winter or have no water available. Call ahead to verify conditions if you are travelling after this date.
CLIMATE
The rugged topography of western Colorado causes large variations in climate within short distances, and few climatic generalizations apply to the whole area. Summer in the mountains is a cool and refreshing season. At typical mountain stations the average July temperature is in the neighborhood of 60 degrees F. The highest temperatures are usually in the 70’s and 80’s, but may reach 95 degrees F. Above 7,000 feet, the nights are quite cool throughout the summer, while bright sunshine makes the days comfortably warm.
Updated: Dec 19, 2017Great Parks North
The Great Parks North terrain is a series of climbs and descents over passes into various river valleys. In the southern part of the route, you'll stay in the valleys and experience rolling terrain. The route crosses the Continental Divide three times.
Great Parks South
On Great Parks South, you will cross eleven mountain passes, and six of these will be over the Continental Divide. The highest point on the route is at 12,183 feet in Rocky Mountain National Park. The route follows a few river valleys, but for the most part you will be either climbing or descending.
Great Parks North
- service waypoints
- 362
- minimum elevation
- 2470 ft.
- maximum elevation
- 6825 ft.
- south bound total climbing
- 40,775 ft.
- north bound total climbing
- 40,765 ft.
- south bound climb per mile
- 55 ft. per mi.
- north bound climb per mile
- 55 ft. per mi.
Great Parks North Alternates
- name
- Banff Spur
- distance
- 19.0 miles
- east bound total climbing
- 910 ft.
- west bound total climbing
- 1,330 ft.
- east bound climb per mile
- 48 ft. per mi.
- west bound climb per mile
- 70 ft. per mi.
- name
- Gravel Alternate
- distance
- 20.9 miles
- south bound total climbing
- 1,425 ft.
- north bound total climbing
- 1,310 ft.
- south bound climb per mile
- 68 ft. per mi.
- north bound climb per mile
- 63 ft. per mi.
- name
- Tobacco Valley Alternate
- distance
- 100.0 miles
- south bound total climbing
- 4,955 ft.
- north bound total climbing
- 4,950 ft.
- south bound climb per mile
- 50 ft. per mi.
- north bound climb per mile
- 50 ft. per mi.
Great Parks South
- service waypoints
- 370
- minimum elevation
- 5805 ft.
- maximum elevation
- 12175 ft.
- south bound total climbing
- 53,075 ft.
- north bound total climbing
- 53,293 ft.
- south bound climb per mile
- 76 ft. per mi.
- north bound climb per mile
- 77 ft. per mi.
Great Parks South Alternates
- name
- Berthoud Pass Alternate
- distance
- 47.0 miles
- south bound total climbing
- 4,095 ft.
- north bound total climbing
- 3,795 ft.
- south bound climb per mile
- 87 ft. per mi.
- north bound climb per mile
- 81 ft. per mi.
- name
- Mesa Verde Spur
- distance
- 52.3 miles
- out and back total climbing
- 5,890 ft.
- out and back climb per mile
- 113 ft. per mi.
Great Parks North
This route should be ridden from early summer to mid-fall (typically June to September). Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is usually closed until early to mid June and has limited hours for cyclists which is noted on the map. Snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains so be prepared with cold weather gear. Due to changing local conditions, it is difficult to predict any major wind patterns.
Jasper can be reached by rail service from Edmonton, Alberta. Along the entire length of the route, small towns at regular intervals provide ample services, but plan ahead due to crowded tourist conditions, especially in the Canadian Park System and in Glacier National Park. Reservations at both hostels and campgrounds are recommended. For off-road bicycling and primitive camping, a water purifier is necessary.
Great Parks South
This route can be ridden from early summer to mid-fall (typically June to September). Trail Ridge Road is closed between October and June. Snow can occur at any time during the summer in the Rocky Mountains. Altitude sickness can slow you down, so preparation for the high altitude is important. Arriving a few days before your trip begins is a good way to acclimate.
In Colorado, high-altitude services from campground water to grocery stores can shut down early in the autumn depending on weather. A water purifier is recommended. Due to high levels of tourist activity in the summer, reservations for accommodations and campgrounds are recommended.
Great Parks North and South may be connected into one route by adding TransAmerica Trail Sections 4, 5, and 6.
Some campgrounds will charge a cyclist traveling alone less if they have hiker/biker sites, but often they will charge the price of a regular tent site, and that can easily be $10-$20/night. The maps list churches that have opened their doors to cyclists, but they aren't all that closely spaced. If you're friendly and ask around, you can often get yourself invited to camp in a yard. In the U.S. our routes go through national forests (moreso in the west) and you are allowed to camp anywhere on national forest land as long as you "pack it in, pack it out." Many city parks are free to camp in.
You may also wish to sign up with Warmshowers, a reciprocal hospitality site for bicycle travelers, for other overnight options.
- Jasper National Park, Great Parks North Section 1
- Banff National Park, Great Parks North Section 1
- Kootenay National Park, Great Parks North Section 1
- Waterton Lakes National Park, Great Parks North Section 2
- Going-to-the-Sun Rd., Great Parks North Section 2
- Glacier National Park, Great Parks North Section 2
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Parks South Section 1
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Great Parks South Section 2
- Telluride, Colorado, Great Parks South Section 2
- Mesa Verde National Park, Mesa Verde Spur, Great Parks South Section 2
More Route Resources
- Great Parks North and South may be connected into one route by adding TransAmerica Trail Sections 4, 5, and 6.
- Sun Dog Tours Shuttle Service between Jasper and Banff
- U.S./Canada Visa Information
- U.S. Chief Mountain border crossing
- Canadian Chief Mountain border crossing
- Roosville Border Crossing
- Bicycling in Glacier National Park
- Going-to-the-Sun Road Information
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Summit County, Colorado bicycling information
- Mesa Verde National Park bicycling restrictions
- Connect and share photos with other riders on Instagram: #acaGrParksN and #acaGrParksS
