When complete, the US 36 Bikeway will offer a convenient and safe non-motorized route for traveling between Denver and Boulder. Eleven miles of the paved trail—which locals refer to as a “commuter highway for bicyclists”—opened in June 2015; this first phase parallels US 36 from Westminster (a northwestern suburb of Denver) to the Louisville/Superior area. Along the way, barriers and wide grassy medians separate the pathway from traffic.
The second phase of the project, extending the trail another 7 miles to Table Mesa Station in Boulder, is anticipated to be completed in March 2016. All six Regional Transportation District (RTD) stations along US 36 will then be accessible from the trail.
Increasing its value as a transportation option, the US 36 Bikeway connects to several other trails, including the Big Dry Creek Trail and Farmers’ High Line Canal Trail in Westminster, the Coal Creek Regional Trail in Louisville, and, eventually, the Bear Creek Path in Boulder.
Although it serves primarily as a utilitarian corridor by connecting residents to businesses, schools, and shopping complexes such as Broomfield’s Flatiron Crossing, there are mountain views and pockets of beauty as the trail winds through preserved open space and several parks.
Near its southern end, parking is available at Westminster Hills Park (4105 W. 80th Ave.). Mid-trail, the connecting Big Dry Creek Trail leads east to Westminster City Park (10455 Sheridan Blvd.), where parking and restrooms are available. Near its current northern end, parking is available in Broomfield's Interlocken East Park (280 Interlocken Blvd.) and, when the trail is extended farther north, trail goers will also be able to take the Bear Creek Trail to parking at Boulder’s Martin Park (off Eastman Avenue).
Would recommend respirator unless you like carbon monoxide. Very wide surface and less dangerous than the road. Lots of parallel traffic. Air quality alert.
Good for an inline skate over distance. Some solid downhills and uphills. You will get some serious speed going on the final approach to Boulder. There are a few sharper turns to watch out for in other locations. 95% fresh, immaculate concrete.
This is not really a bike trail but more of a urban cyclist commuters corridor. Connecting many of the Colorado foothills communities such as Westminster,Broomfield, Louisville, Superior and Boulder. There is a rest stop at the top of Davidsons Mesa since this is the steepest part of the whole trail. Nice smooth concrete pavement makes this trail a great way to travel between these cities.
During the hot summer months, this is probably best done during the more quiet and cooler early morning hours. Though because of how our day went, I ended up here in the middle of the day during 90+ degree weather. Yes, it was hot. Yes, it was noisy. Bring plenty of water and your earbuds and all is good. Good signage along the whole trail. Currently there is some construction on the east side of Boulder and you'll have to make a detour via the Coal Creek trail. Signs are still posted everywhere. Direction Boulder-Denver, ensure you stay on the left side of the road (where the detour signs are) because on the right side, the bike/walk path abruptly ends and you'll have to ride on the street.
This is a good ride for distance, not too hilly. Just a couple of rises to get to bridges etc. Not too busy but that might have been because of the hot weather. I also connected to Cherryvale and Marshall road as an extra loop.
Easy access to business for food/drink/pit stop.
Not exactly scenic and very loud along the highway. trail just stops and leaves you hanging on the east end. I do enjoy not stopping for lights and traffic much.
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