With months of outdoor riding fitness built up and no official races on the calendar, I challenged myself on a solo century (100 miles) bike ride. I chose to focus on city riding where I could feel safer with many other cyclists around and on trails where I could be separated from most vehicles.
The First 50
After an eleven mile ride through my neighborhood and Chatfield State Park, I connected with the South Platte River Trail and took that into downtown Denver. At the REI flagship store, I crossed the river and connected with the Cherry Creek Trail and headed southeast on a gradual 0-2% grade. I circled around Cherry Creek Reservoir through Cherry Creek State Park before heading back to Denver. I took a detour and cycled around Washington Park (WashPark) to get more miles.
The Last 50
I planned a fun lunch pit stop at Moe’s Bagel for a carb lovers lunch…complete with a bottle of Coca-Cola! After riding back through the city, it was time for the homeward stretch retracing my route on the South Platte River Trail. I was tired. And hot. I put in my AirPods and focused on listening and finishing my book on tape as I pedaled the last revolutions to reach 100 miles for the day! I definitely recommend this route and/or idea!
Good to Know
Distance: 100 miles out-and-back
Trails: Chatfield State Park > South Platte River > Cherry Creek
Elevation Gain: ~2,200 ft
Terrain: Paved cycling trails
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