Rules for Bicyclists to Follow When Riding on Colorado Trails
Multi-use trails and regional paths come with specific rules: yield to pedestrians, stay right, ride the posted speed limit, and more.
By Attorney Dan D'Angelo
Trial Lawyer · Brain Injury Advocate · Avid Cyclist
Colorado cyclists have many choices where to ride outdoors, from roadways, mountain biking trails, parks, to multi-use trails or paths. When riding on a hard or soft surfaced trail, path, or sidewalk where bicycles are permitted, there are rules cyclists must follow to comply with the law, be a courteous user, and safely operate their bicycle.
- Only operate your bicycle on the established trail or path.
- Yield to pedestrians and other slower users.
- Stay to the right except when passing, and do not block or substantially impede travel in the opposite direction.
- Pass others on the left only after yielding to oncoming users and giving an audible warning with a bell or saying loudly 'on your left'.
- Ride the designated speed limit or slower if conditions require it. The speed limit for bicycles on most Regional Trails is 15 mph.
- Do not stop or stand on the path/trail in a way that blocks or substantially impedes others.
- Dismount when required for safe operation.
- Do not ride with a dog leashed to your bicycle.
- Comply with all other state and local laws applicable to bicycles.
Denver Metro Regional Trails
Regional Trails span multiple municipalities and can be many miles long. The High Line Canal alone is over 70 miles. Major Denver Metro Regional Trails include:
- Bear Creek Trail
- Cherry Creek Trail
- High Line Canal Trail
- Lakewood Gulch Trail
- Sand Creek Trail
- Sanderson Gulch Trail
- Weir Gulch Trail
- South Platte River Trail
Other popular Colorado Regional Trails include the Rio Grande Trail following the Roaring Fork River from Glenwood Springs to Aspen, and the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path alongside the Colorado River and I-70. Local rules vary, so research them before riding a new path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the speed limit for bicycles on Colorado trails?
15 mph on most Denver Metro Regional Trails — and slower when conditions require it. Always ride the posted limit for the specific trail you're on.
Do cyclists have to yield to pedestrians on multi-use trails?
Yes. Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians and all slower users, stay right except when passing, and never block or substantially impede travel in the opposite direction.
How do I legally pass someone on a trail?
On the left only — after yielding to oncoming users and giving an audible warning, either with a bell or by loudly saying "on your left."
Do trail rules change from place to place?
Yes. Regional trails like the Cherry Creek Trail, High Line Canal Trail, and South Platte River Trail span multiple municipalities, each with its own local rules. Research the specific trail before you ride — and if a collision happens on the trail and injures you, call me. I may be able to help.
Have a question about your case?
Attorney Dan D'Angelo offers free consultations for brain injury and cycling accident victims throughout Colorado.
About the Author
Attorney Dan D'Angelo
Trial Lawyer · Brain Injury Advocate · Avid Cyclist
Attorney Dan D'Angelo founded D'Angelo Law Office, P.C. in 2009 and Bike Brain Law to focus exclusively on traumatic brain injury and cycling injury cases in Colorado. An avid cyclist himself, Dan combines deep TBI science knowledge with hands-on cycling experience to build winning cases against insurance companies and corporations that put profits over safety.
- Practicing Colorado personal injury attorney since 2009
- Focused practice in TBI and bicycle injury litigation
- Multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for injury victims
- Avid road and commuter cyclist
