Valmont Bike Park

If you are looking for the epicenter of Colorado's cycling scene, then Valmont Bike Park is the one place you cannot miss. Located in the picturesque city of Boulder, this modern 40-acre complex is recognized as one of the best public bike parks in the USA. Its concept is built on skill progression: it offers ideal conditions for everyone from toddlers on balance bikes to professional athletes.

The park impresses with its variety of trails, offering lines for cross-country, slopestyle, and downhill. One of the park's crown jewels is the cyclocross area, which includes the famous "5280 Run Up" staircase—the largest permanent structure of its kind in North America, situated exactly one mile above sea level. The entire space was meticulously designed by specialists who understand what true riding excitement is all about.

Beyond the sports component, this location serves as an important social hub for the local community. The historic Platt Farm House has been carefully preserved here, hundreds of trees have been planted, and a welcoming atmosphere has been created for the whole family. It is important to note that access to the park is completely free, making it accessible to every two-wheeled adventure seeker.

To plan your visit or check trail conditions after inclement weather, it is useful to have the official details at hand. Below is the current contact information for the park administration and its exact location.

In this park, everyone will find an activity to their liking, regardless of their riding style. You can start with four miles of diverse trails, including mellow "green" routes for family outings. Technical riders will appreciate the pump tracks and specialized training loops, while those who aren't afraid of heights can hone their tricks on dirt jumps of varying difficulty—from beginner to expert.

The competition zones deserve special attention: test yourself on the dual slalom track with its starting ramp or tackle the challenging sections of the slopestyle course. For cyclocross fans, there is a unique "The Sand Box" area with deep sand and the "Belgian Steps" obstacle, which mimics the conditions of classic European races.

If you decide to take a break from riding, Valmont Bike Park also features a disc golf course, a modern playground, and even a separate dog park. Spectacular events such as the Boulder Cup are often held here, where you can watch performances by top riders and get inspired by the competitive spirit.

Getting to this sporting oasis is easy, as it is located just 5 kilometers from downtown Boulder. If you are arriving by car, follow Airport Road east to the intersection with Valmont Road, and then turn north. There are two spacious free parking lots provided for visitors on the west and south sides of the complex.

Public transportation is also a convenient option: you can use the RTD bus system (routes AB or SKIP), which stops within walking distance of the entrance. For those who prefer taxis or services like Uber, the ride from the city center takes just a few minutes, while the trip from Denver International Airport (DIA) takes about 45 minutes.

The most authentic way to arrive is by bicycle. The city's bike path network includes a dedicated multi-use path along Valmont Road. Keep in mind that the park is situated at an elevation of about 1,600 meters (1 mile) above sea level, so beginners may need a bit of time to acclimate before intensive riding.

The history of this unique facility began in the mid-1990s when city authorities purchased 132 acres of land to create a municipal park. The journey from concept to completion took 15 years, during which the local cycling community, led by the Boulder Mountainbike Alliance (BMA), actively campaigned for the project, proving its significance at public hearings.

The financial side of the project became an example of successful cooperation: activists managed to raise approximately $500,000 through private donations and grants. The total cost of the cycling infrastructure alone exceeded $1.2 million, and the design was handled by experts from Alpine Bike Parks, including USA champions. During construction, approximately 220,000 cubic yards of dirt were moved to create the perfect terrain.

The grand opening took place on June 11, 2011, drawing hundreds of people and marking a new era in the region's cycling culture. In 2021, the park celebrated its tenth anniversary by updating trails and adding new challenging jump sections designed by professional riders.

The amount of time you should set aside for a visit largely depends on your skills and goals. For families with children and beginners who simply want to try out the skills loop and pump tracks, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to soak in the atmosphere and get your first adrenaline rush.

For dedicated riders and professionals, we recommend planning for anywhere from 4 hours to a full day. The abundance of disciplines—from dual slalom to complex jump lines—will have you returning to the start again and again. If you plan to combine riding with a break at the dog park or a game of disc golf nearby, plan for a full day out.

The park features a very convenient schedule, allowing sports enthusiasts to train at dawn or late into the evening under the lights. It is open to visitors daily, including weekends and holidays.

Operating hours are the same every day of the week (Monday through Sunday): from 05:00 to 23:00. This provides the opportunity for a morning workout before work or a ride during the cooler evening hours.

Exploring the surroundings after an active ride can greatly enrich your Colorado experience. Just a few minutes' drive from the park, you will find historic farms and curious cultural landmarks characteristic of this part of the country.