By Ted Crawford
Special to the News

Denver has been named one of the "Top Ten Cycling Cities" by Bicycling magazine. This is due, in part, to our extensive bike-path network and on-street routes.

Designed on a grid system, routes have posted signs with detailed descriptions. Maps of the system are also sold at area bike shops.

If you're headed to the zoo this weekend, bike routes are available from just about any direction and make fun rides for the whole family.

IF YOU GO

Bicycle: city or mountain bike

Location: Central Denver, east of downtown, north of Cherry Creek shopping center.

Surface: paved roads

Distance: The zoo is 21/2 miles north of East First Avenue in Cherry Creek and 1 miles east of downtown.

Difficulty: All grid bike routes are easy.

To reach the Denver Zoo: Enter City Park from the east, west or south entrances. Ride through the park to get to the new Gates Center on 23rd Avenue. Riding on 23rd or 26th avenues is not recommended because of heavy traffic and narrow shoulders.

OTHER RIDES

June is Denver Bike Month.

Sponsored by the city and county of Denver and RTD, several events are designed to encourage the regular use of bicycles as an alternative means of transportation.

For more information on events, call (303) 640-2453. Also see the posted signs along many paths for upcoming activities.

-Confluence Park: Another fun city destination that's easy to get to is Confluence Park. Free concerts will be held in the park July 6, 13, 20 and 27. To encourage bicyclists, valet parking will be available. The park can be easily accessed from the north or south along the Platte River Greenway, or from the southeast along Cherry Creek Bikeway.

-Coors Field: One of the best things about Coors Field is the excellent bike access and parking facilities. Initially hurt by some poor communication with law enforcement, the facility now boasts a well-lighted, fenced area near the southwest gate with a posted watch. Access is a snap: Take the Wynkoop exit from the Cherry Creek Bikeway just east of Confluence Park. A newly painted on-street lane guides riders across 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th streets to access a bridge at 20th Street and into the bike parking area.

E-mail Ted Crawford at ford@dslbroadband.com.