When you B-Cycle, you simply borrow a bike from a convenient station, get to where you need to go, and park it for the next B-Cycler. The bike sharing system is in place in sixteen cities across North America, including Denver and Boulder in Colorado, and has met with such success because it’s so easy—you can have a bike when you need it and not worry about it when you don’t. Denver B-Cyclers can purchase a $59 season pass this month (normally $80) online or just grab a day pass at a B-Cycle station. Want to give it a try? Here’s a fun little 12-mile loop in downtown Denver that includes some scenic waypoints that you can download to your mobile phone using the free ViewRanger app to get you started.
Market Street Station (39.749798, -104.998184)
Where to start but the center of the Denver universe at the Market Street RTD station along the 16th Street Mall. When you’re ready to ride, simply swipe your card ($8 gives you 24-hour access for 30 minute stints), grab a bike and follow the route.
Cherry Creek Trail (39.7346, -104.994003)
Just two blocks of pedalling and you’re southbound on the Cherry Creek Trail. Cruise all the way down to E. 7th Avenue and turn east for your first stop.
Governor’s Park (39.727222, -104.983635)
Park your bike at the B-cycle on Grant Street and walk through Governors Park to check out the beautiful Grant-Humphreys Mansion. Completed in 1902, the mansion is architecturally stunning and historically significant for Colorado. historycolorado.org/plan-event/history-mansion
Cheesman Park (39.732903, -104.965996)
Get back on your bike and continue east on E. 7th Avenue and turn north on Williams St. to cruise through Cheesman Park.
Check in (39.74818, -104.968445)
Know where the B-Cycle stations are because there are no extra fees for half-hour stints. Just check in and check out and the clock resets.
Denver City Park (39.748215, -104.95977)
Denver City Park has lots of engaging options. Pick a trail that looks good and just let it guide you along. The Denver Zoo is in the southwest corner and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science along with an IMAX is on the far east side of the park (conveniently, along with a B-Cycle station).
Eat Up (39.756989, -104.985611)
Time to find some food. If you opt for a B-Cycle membership you’ll get discounts at great eateries like Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs on Larimer Street.
Dessert (39.759232, -105.010544)
For something sweet head over to the iconic Little Man Ice Cream set in a giant milk pail and you’re in a good position to return to the start of this adventure by just popping over Highland Bridge back to the 16th Street Mall to catch your bus home or to walk the mall if you skipped that at the start.
