The Mountain Fountain – Coot Lake Dock loop from Bullhead Gulch Open Space

The Mountain Fountain – Coot Lake Dock loop from Bullhead Gulch Open Space is a challenging road cycling route that will test your endurance, covering 86.1 miles (138.6 km) with 2798 feet (853 metres) of elevation gain over an estimated 5 hours and 59 minutes. This difficult ride is best suited for experienced cyclists looking for a long day in the saddle with varied terrain, offering a unique blend of scenic views and multi-use path navigation.

What to expect on The Mountain Fountain – Coot Lake Dock loop from Bullhead Gulch Open Space

As you embark on this extensive loop, you'll experience a mix of surfaces, which is crucial for racebike riders to note. While some sections are paved, expect to encounter unpaved gravel and even dirt multi-use paths, particularly around Coot Lake and within Bullhead Gulch Open Space. The Coot Lake area itself offers picturesque views of the Flatirons and Longs Peak on clear days, and it's a haven for birdwatching, with species like ospreys and bald eagles. Be prepared to share the path with pedestrians and dog walkers, especially around the lake, which means you'll need to maintain awareness and adjust your speed. This route demands a difficult level of effort, not just from the distance and elevation, but also from adapting to the changing trail conditions.

Planning your visit

Given the varied terrain, this loop is best tackled on a dry day to avoid muddy conditions around Coot Lake. There is little tree cover, so plan for sun exposure, especially during warmer months. Parking is available at Bullhead Gulch Open Space, which serves as a convenient starting point. Since the Coot Lake area is a popular multi-use space, consider starting early to enjoy quieter paths, though you should always expect to share the route with others.

Trail details

• Distance: 86.1 miles (138.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 2798 feet (853 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 5 hours and 59 minutes