Guide to Gravel: Respect the Rural, Rivers and Roads
06/09/2025 11:24AM ● By Ski Town Media Staff
Photo by Ben Duke.
Steamboat Springs, also known as Bike Town USA®,is a gravel riding paradise with over 600 miles of dirt and hard-packed gravel roads weaving through stunning mountain and ranchland scenery. Routes are available for everyone from beginners to seasoned riders.
For a moderate challenge, the Emerald Circuit (27.9 miles) and Airport Plus Gravel Grinder Loop (21.86 miles) offer a mix of pavement and gravel with rolling countryside views. If you’re up for a serious adventure, Strade Sporche (111.5 miles) provides an epic test of endurance, while Steamboat Unbridled (60.3 miles) and Sleeping Giant (41.3 miles) serve up breathtaking landscapes with tough climbs.
Steamboat also hosts SBT GRVL, a premier gravel race attracting top cyclists worldwide. No matter your ride, be sure to follow Colorado’s cycling laws, respect rural roads, and check conditions – some routes become impassable when wet. Visit The Dirty Roads website for more detailed ride guides (thedirtyroads.com).
With its mix of accessibility, challenge and unparalleled scenery, Routt County is a top-tier destination for gravel riders looking to explore Colorado’s rugged beauty.
Steamboat Springs, also known as Bike Town USA®,is a gravel riding paradise with over 600 miles of dirt and hard-packed gravel roads weaving through stunning mountain and ranchland scenery. Routes are available for everyone from beginners to seasoned riders.
For a moderate challenge, the Emerald Circuit (27.9 miles) and Airport Plus Gravel Grinder Loop (21.86 miles) offer a mix of pavement and gravel with rolling countryside views. If you’re up for a serious adventure, Strade Sporche (111.5 miles) provides an epic test of endurance, while Steamboat Unbridled (60.3 miles) and Sleeping Giant (41.3 miles) serve up breathtaking landscapes with tough climbs.
Steamboat also hosts SBT GRVL, a premier gravel race attracting top cyclists worldwide. No matter your ride, be sure to follow Colorado’s cycling laws, respect rural roads, and check conditions – some routes become impassable when wet. Visit The Dirty Roads website for more detailed ride guides (thedirtyroads.com).
With its mix of accessibility, challenge and unparalleled scenery, Routt County is a top-tier destination for gravel riders looking to explore Colorado’s rugged beauty.