Buffalo Creek loop via Pine Lake Trailhead

The primary access point for this loop is the Pine Lake Trailhead. There is a designated parking area there, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.

The Buffalo Creek Trail System is located within Pike National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits required for day-use mountain biking on these trails, nor are there entrance fees. However, always check the Pike National Forest website for the most current regulations before your visit.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails within the Buffalo Creek Trail System. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

The Buffalo Creek area is popular from spring through fall. It's often one of the first trail systems in the Front Range to dry out in the spring, making it an excellent early-season destination. Fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot, so plan for early morning rides.

The terrain is predominantly smooth, flowy singletrack with sandy, dry surfaces. While generally considered moderate, the challenge often comes from the overall mileage and elevation gain rather than highly technical features. Climbs are typically mellow but long, leading to fun, flowing descents. You'll encounter some built berms and rideable rock formations, often with bypasses.

This specific loop is approximately 33.3 km (20.7 miles) long with about 769 meters (2,523 feet) of elevation gain. For an average mountain biker, it typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes to complete, but this can vary based on fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

You'll experience diverse scenery, including scenic cross-country views of the Rocky Mountains, forested areas, open expanses, and sections of burn zones. The landscape also features large, flat granite sections that are enjoyable to ride across. The trail system is known for its fast, flowy descents and less technical nature.

Yes, the route is part of an extensive network and intersects with several other trails. You'll ride sections of trails like Strawberry Jack, Homestead, Miller Gulch, and Baldy. The route also passes through a significant portion of the Gashouse Trail, and touches parts of the Colorado Trail, connecting it to an even larger network.

Buffalo Creek is renowned for being one of the first trail systems in the Front Range to dry out after winter or heavy rains. If you're looking for dry trails early in the season, this is often your best bet, typically from late March or early April onwards, depending on snowmelt.

Absolutely! Many riders highlight the flowy descents as a major draw. Trails like Sandy Wash are a 'must-do' for their steady, smooth descent, allowing for high speeds. Gashouse Trail and Charlie's Cutoff are also known for their fun, downhill sections, with Charlie's Cutoff offering some rideable rock features for a bit more challenge.

While the full loop is rated moderate due to its length and elevation gain, many individual trails within the Buffalo Creek system are suitable for beginners. The flowy, less technical nature makes it a great place for riders to develop skills. Families with younger or less experienced riders might consider shorter out-and-back sections or smaller loops within the system rather than the full 33 km route.