The Alpine Loop from Lake City

The full Alpine Loop from Lake City is approximately 49.5 miles (79.6 km) long. While the komoot tour estimates a duration of around 7 hours and 43 minutes, many riders find it takes longer due to the challenging terrain, significant elevation gain, and the need to walk bikes on steep sections of Cinnamon Pass and Engineer Pass. Plan for a full day, especially if you want to enjoy the scenery and historical sites.

The route primarily consists of Jeep and UTV dirt roads, making up about 90% of the trail. While some sections are well-maintained, you'll encounter rugged and rocky parts, particularly near the high mountain passes. Expect steep climbs and descents, uneven surfaces, and potential vehicle traffic. The main Alpine Loop is not characterized by singletrack, though the surrounding Redcloud Peak Wilderness Study Area does contain some.

The Alpine Loop offers breathtaking scenery of the San Juan Mountains, including panoramic views of several 14,000-foot peaks like Redcloud Peak and Handies Peak. You'll pass through historic mining ruins and ghost towns such as Animas Forks and Capitol City. Notable natural highlights include Lake San Cristobal and the vibrant wildflowers of American Basin. The route also crosses two major mountain passes: Cinnamon Pass and Engineer Pass.

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the Alpine Loop. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash, especially due to the presence of UTV and Jeep traffic, as well as potential wildlife. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste. Be mindful of the high altitude and rugged terrain, which can be challenging for some dogs.

The Alpine Loop is typically only open from June or July through September due to heavy snowpack at high elevations. The best time to visit is usually late July through early September, when the passes are clear, and wildflowers are often in bloom. It's advisable to start early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the San Juan Mountains during summer.

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required to mountain bike the Alpine Loop itself, as it primarily follows public roads and lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service. However, always check the latest regulations from the BLM (blm.gov) or local Forest Service offices for any updates, especially if you plan to venture onto side trails within the Redcloud Peak Wilderness Study Area, as wilderness areas often have specific rules.

Lake City serves as a primary starting point for the Alpine Loop. You can find parking within Lake City itself. Specific trailhead parking areas are available, but it's best to consult local resources or the Town of Lake City website for designated parking locations and any potential restrictions or fees.

No, the Alpine Loop from Lake City is considered a difficult and intense mountain biking experience. It involves significant length (52-80 miles), considerable elevation gain (5,630-7,800 feet), and challenging climbs over Cinnamon Pass and Engineer Pass, where many riders find it necessary to walk their bikes. The rugged, rocky terrain and high altitude make it unsuitable for beginners.

Given the trail's difficulty and remote nature, you should be well-prepared. Essential items include plenty of water, high-energy food, rain gear (afternoon thunderstorms are common), a repair kit for your bike, a first-aid kit, and navigation tools. Due to the steep and rugged sections, some riders also bring hiking shoes for walking their bikes over the passes. Sun protection, layers of clothing, and a helmet are also crucial.

Yes, the Alpine Loop route intersects with or runs concurrently with several other paths. You'll find sections that are part of Engineer Pass Road, Henson Creek Trail, Capitol City Sheep Corrals Road, and the Colorado Trail. While the main loop is primarily dirt roads, these intersections offer glimpses of other routes in the area.

The climbs to Cinnamon Pass and Engineer Pass are notoriously difficult. An insider tip is to start your ride very early in the morning to avoid the heaviest UTV and Jeep traffic, which tends to pick up later in the day, and to mitigate the risk of afternoon thunderstorms. Many experienced riders plan to walk their bikes on the steepest and most rugged sections of the passes, so don't be discouraged if you find yourself doing the same. Conserving energy and staying hydrated are key.