Boulder, Colorado, is a city that practically begs to be explored on two wheels. Known for its scenic landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods, and active outdoor culture, Boulder offers some of the best bike touring opportunities in the Rockies. With dedicated bike paths along Boulder Creek, steep climbs to Chautauqua Park, and lively streets like Pearl Street Mall, it’s a city that rewards cycling enthusiasts and casual riders alike. Whether you’re looking for a guided experience that covers the highlights or a family-friendly ride with electric assistance, Boulder’s bike tours deliver a memorable way to see the city.
Unlike many other mountain towns, Boulder combines urban charm with natural beauty, making it ideal for both leisurely rides and more energetic adventures. You’ll find tours that focus on scenic viewpoints, local history, and the city’s best attractions—all accessible thanks to well-maintained paths and the help of modern eBikes. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your visit on two wheels, this guide will help you compare the top options, so you can choose the perfect ride for your interests and fitness level.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll cover two highly-rated bike tours: the Ride Boulder’s Best Guided eBike Tour and the Boulder: Electric Bike Tour with Local Guide (14yo & up). Both tours are priced at $105 per person, last around 2 hours, and feature electric bikes to make hills a breeze. The first offers a small-group adventure with a focus on top attractions and engaging commentary, while the second emphasizes a guided exploration through Boulder’s most scenic and historic spots, with a detailed itinerary.
Now, let’s look at what makes each of these tours stand out.
1. Ride Boulder’s Best Guided eBike Tour
This guided eBike tour is perfect for those who want a fun, active introduction to Boulder without breaking a sweat. It’s a small-group experience, which means more personalized attention, and it’s designed to showcase many of Boulder’s top sights in just two hours. The tour features excellent Rad Power eBikes, making it accessible to a wide range of ages and fitness levels, perfect for families or casual riders.
Justin and Pete, the guides, receive rave reviews. Guests mention Justin’s helpful overview and engaging commentary, which adds context to the sights, and Pete’s humor and local knowledge, which make the ride even more enjoyable. The tour hits scenic spots and interesting stops, all with a focus on fun and accessibility. The price of $105 gets you a well-paced, highlight-filled ride that balances sightseeing with light exercise.
This tour is especially suited for families or visitors seeking an easy, social way to cover a lot of ground in a short time. The small-group setting and quality bikes make it a comfortable experience, and the positive reviews confirm that it’s a good choice for first-timers and seasoned cyclists alike.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, guided introduction to Boulder with top-rated eBikes and friendly guides, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
2. Boulder: Electric Bike Tour with Local Guide (14yo & up)
This guided electric bike tour emphasizes a comprehensive exploration of Boulder, tailored for those 14 and older. With a focus on local insights, the tour covers lush open spaces, historic downtown, Chautauqua, and University of Colorado Boulder, providing a well-rounded view of what makes Boulder special. Riding an electric bike means you can tackle even the steepest climbs without fatigue, making the tour accessible to a variety of fitness levels.
The detailed itinerary includes stops at North Boulder Park, the Hotel Boulderado, Pearl Street Mall, and Boulder Creek Path, each with photo stops and guided commentary. Highlights such as the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse and scenic stops at Eben G. Fine Park and Mapleton Hill make this a full sightseeing experience. The inclusion of helmets and comfortable bikes ensures a hassle-free outing.
Guests praise the guides’ local expertise and thorough knowledge of Boulder’s neighborhoods and history. The ride’s pacing and the variety of stops—ranging from cultural sites to scenic vistas—make it suitable for those who want both education and fresh air. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a detailed, guided city tour with bike-friendly logistics.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a guided, in-depth look at Boulder with plenty of stops and expert insights, this tour offers a rewarding and balanced experience that covers the city’s highlights comfortably.
How to Choose
Choosing between these two excellent tours depends on your priorities. If you want a relaxed, family-friendly ride with a small-group feel and an emphasis on fun, the Ride Boulder’s Best Guided eBike Tour is a great pick. For travelers who prefer a more structured, educational experience with detailed stops and local insights, the Boulder: Electric Bike Tour with Local Guide offers a comprehensive look at the city.
Consider your budget, as both tours cost $105 but offer different experiences. Think about your fitness level—if hills seem daunting, the electric assist will make a big difference. Also, review your schedule and plan to book early, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Both of these bike tours give you a fantastic way to explore Boulder from a local’s perspective. The guided eBike tour provides a quick, fun overview suitable for families or casual riders, while the detailed guided ride offers a deeper dive into Boulder’s neighborhoods and landmarks. For those looking to combine active sightseeing with expert commentary, both options are well worth considering.
If you’re ready to hit Boulder’s bike paths, booking early is wise—these tours tend to fill up fast. Whether you choose the easy, social ride or the comprehensive guided tour, you’re set for a memorable adventure on two wheels through one of Colorado’s most scenic cities.