The best MTB trails in Park County

The Colorado Trail and West Jefferson Loop is a difficult mountain biking route, spanning 22.0 miles (35.3 km) with a substantial 3223 feet (982 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to spend about 3 hours and 49 minutes on this challenging ride. The trail begins with a climb on the Colorado Trail, featuring rolling singletrack and technical sections that lead you towards the timberline. As you ascend, the scenery opens up to high alpine environments, offering expansive views, including the notable Colorado Trail Outlook, before a technical descent on the West Jefferson Trail.

When planning your ride, consider starting from Kenosha Pass, a well-known access point for mountain bikers in the region. While no specific permits or fees are mentioned for this trail, it is always wise to check local regulations before you go. The West Jefferson Trail recently underwent maintenance in 2024, specifically to optimize its switchbacks for mountain biking, which should enhance your downhill experience.

This loop offers a pure Colorado riding experience, transitioning from high alpine tundra into dense forests. The descent on the West Jefferson Trail is particularly notable for its rocky, chunky terrain, creek crossings, and numerous tight switchbacks that follow Jefferson Creek. It provides a dynamic and varied landscape, making it a distinctive option for experienced mountain bikers looking for a challenging adventure in Pike National Forest.

Embark on the Sheep Creek Loop Trail for a moderate mountain biking adventure spanning 12.5 miles (20.2 km). This route takes you through varied terrain, including raw singletrack winding through beautiful aspen groves and expansive meadows. You will gain 1391 feet (424 metres) in elevation, offering rewarding views of the surrounding mountains. Expect a true backcountry feel with primitive sections and several creek crossings, some featuring narrow log bridges. The descent along the Sheep Creek section is particularly enjoyable, with tight, twisting singletrack through forests. Plan for a ride lasting approximately 2 hours and 1 minute.

When planning your ride on the Sheep Creek Loop Trail, be aware that while it is rated moderate overall, you should prepare for significant climbing, especially on the Twelvemile Trail section. It is important to note that e-bikes are not permitted on a portion of the Forest Service Road leading to the trailhead, so check local regulations before you go. The trail is highly recommended for mountain biking in the autumn, when the aspen trees display spectacular fall colors, making it a prime time to visit. Always check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.

This loop offers a genuine backcountry experience, characterized by its raw singletrack and natural obstacles. You will navigate through diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to open meadows, providing a dynamic riding environment. The trail's design ensures a rewarding ride that combines scenic beauty with technical sections, making it a standout option in the Pike-San Isabel National Forests. The primitive sections and creek crossings add to its unique character, setting it apart from more manicured routes.

Get ready for a difficult mountain biking adventure on the Boreas Pass and Gold Dust Trail Loop. This 19.7 miles (31.6 km) route takes you through dense aspen groves and fragrant pine forests, offering abundant views of the Blue River Valley. You will climb 2026 feet (618 metres) over an estimated 3 hours and 7 minutes, with impressive panoramic views as you ascend to the Continental Divide, especially from the Boreas Pass Viewpoint. Expect a mix of historic dirt roads and high-quality singletrack, including a flowing "flume section" on the Gold Dust Trail, making for a varied and engaging ride.

This difficult mountain biking loop requires very good fitness and advanced riding skills, so come prepared for a challenge. You should be ready for varied terrain, including gravel roads and rocky singletrack, and anticipate sections where you might need to push your bike. Planning your visit during the summer months will allow you to experience vibrant wildflowers along the way. Always check local conditions before heading out, as weather can change quickly at higher elevations.

The Boreas Pass and Gold Dust Trail Loop is located within Pike National Forest, offering a rich natural environment for your ride. Historically, this area is significant for its role as a pass over the Continental Divide, blending natural beauty with a sense of the past. The route is also known as part of the challenging Breckenridge 100 mountain bike race, highlighting its demanding nature and making it a notable ride for experienced mountain bikers in the region.

Embark on a rewarding mountain biking journey along the Colorado Trail from Kenosha Pass to Jefferson Lake. This moderate route spans 17.4 miles (28.1 km) and features rolling terrain through vibrant aspen groves, offering picturesque views of the Como and Fairplay valleys. You will gain 2349 feet (716 metres) in elevation, with expansive vistas from the Colorado Trail Outlook, culminating at the beautiful Jefferson Lake. Expect to spend around 2 hours and 57 minutes on this high-country adventure.

This section of the Colorado Trail is a popular destination for mountain bikers, especially for high-country riding in early summer. Parking is readily available at Kenosha Pass, which serves as a convenient starting point for your ride. While the fall colors are spectacular, be aware that weekends during this season can see increased traffic from hikers, so plan your visit accordingly.

Much of this route takes you above 10,000 feet, so be prepared for high altitude conditions. The trail is located within Pike National Forest, offering a true immersion into the Rocky Mountain landscape. This segment is particularly known for its stunning views and the serene beauty of Jefferson Lake, making it a standout experience for intermediate to advanced riders.

Get ready for an easy mountain biking adventure on Tie Hack Trail #659, a 5.2-mile (8.4 km) route in Pike National Forest. You will climb 742 feet (226 metres) over about 54 minutes, riding through a beautiful mix of bristlecone pine, lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and vibrant aspen groves. The trail offers a unique "lollipop" shape, starting with an uphill section before opening into a loop. As you ride, you can enjoy views of Sheep Mountain and look forward to a notably fast, flowy downhill stretch, especially if you choose to ride the loop clockwise.

To reach the trailhead, you will use County Road 18. Be aware that the road leading to the parking lot can be washboarded in certain sections, so plan your drive accordingly. It is also important to remember that e-bikes are not permitted on this trail, so make sure your gear complies before heading out.

This route stands out for its distinctive "lollipop" configuration, providing a varied riding experience within a compact area. The diverse forest scenery, including beautiful aspen groves, makes for a pleasant journey. If you ride the loop clockwise, you will find a particularly enjoyable and fast downhill section, adding to the fun of this easy mountain biking trail.

Embark on the Geneva Creek Road Trail for a moderate mountain biking adventure through a gorgeous valley in Pike National Forest. This route spans 14.0 miles (22.6 km) and involves a climb of 2007 feet (612 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 26 minutes to complete. You'll start on bumpy gravel, but the terrain becomes rockier and narrower as you ascend, revealing stunning views, especially during wildflower season or when fall colors are vibrant. Keep an eye out for waterfalls along the way.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail can be quite popular, particularly on weekends, so arriving early is a good idea to secure parking. If you are riding in spring, prepare for potentially deep creek crossings and muddy sections due to runoff. The area also offers ample camping options, including both designated campgrounds and dispersed sites, if you wish to extend your stay overnight.

Beyond the scenic beauty, the Geneva Creek Road Trail offers a glimpse into the past. As you ride, you can explore the historical cabins of the abandoned mining town of Geneva City. Don't miss the expansive vistas from the Iron Fens overlook, providing a broad perspective of the surrounding landscape and adding a unique historical and geographical context to your ride.

Mountain bike the moderate 23.0-mile Colorado Trail: Redskin Mountain Loop for diverse terrain and views in Pike National Forest.

This easy 3.3-mile mountain biking trail in Eleven Mile State Park offers diverse terrain and views of the Collegiate Peaks.

A difficult 21.2-mile mountain biking loop in Pike National Forest, featuring technical terrain, forested climbs, and scenic meadow views.