What would Colorado be without one gorgeous mountain after another? Naturally mountainous areas are a bikers paradise, so where better to test the limits of adventure then right here? Colorado has much to offer the experienced biker, but there are plenty of trails for the novice as well. Here are some of the best.
Three trails combine to create a long, technical trail encompassing 21 miles. Located near Buena Vista, the Colorado Trail, Chalk Cliffs, and Cottonwood Pass Road have some sections suitable for inexperienced riders, but a good part of the path is uphill with steep inclines. Your reward for braving the trek? Enjoy the hot springs located midway on the trail and give yourself a relaxing break. The Colorado Trail also has restrooms by their parking area.
Nature lovers will really enjoy the Monarch Crest trail-a 28-mile journey that gives you spectacular views of the Continental Divide. Located not far from Salida, this is a great scenic spot. Utilizing the shuttle to the higher elevation-12,000 feet-is recommended.
White Ranch Park near Golden is over 19 miles of various loops to choose from. Its an old ranch just east of Denver. You will have to share the track with hikers, and the occasional cow, deer, elk, or bear. There are some great climbs, tough descents, roots and rocks to keep things interesting. While technical, it can be a great place for an intermediate biker to hone his skills.
For serious riders who can handle starting out with a 10-mile incline, the Bear Creek Loop provides 20 miles of picturesque views combined with tricky sections of trail. Downhills, rocks, and fast bermed and fast banked corners will test your skills while you can test your speed in the more open areas. This trail follows the edge of the Glenwood Canyon 1,700 feet high above the Colorado River. Contact the local Chamber of Commerce to get a map of the area for just $1.
If you can handle high altitudes-like 12,300 feet-combined with a really vigorous and demanding workout, you will like the Searle/Kokomo Pass. The entire thing-all 18 miles-is a challenge and is definitely for more experienced bikers, but the scenery is spectacular. From serene mountain ponds to stunning wildflowers, you'll enjoy the breathtaking views-if you can catch your breath, that is.
Even more challenging and arduous, expert bikers will experience some fantastic but technical trails on the 32-mile loop called the Double Top Trail not far from Crested Butte, Colorado. Bring along lots of water, though, because the 11,700-foot altitude contributes to dehydration problems. Make sure you're in excellent physical condition before you tackle this one, and then plan to have a blast!
Colorado's biking trails present unique challengers to bikers-like the high altitudes that can cause a lightheaded reaction and contribute to dehydration-but they're also incredible if you want to have fun and stretch your skill level. To ensure safe riding, never bike alone, always take lots of water along with you, and give yourself time to adjust to the high altitude before biking. Then have fun!
Three trails combine to create a long, technical trail encompassing 21 miles. Located near Buena Vista, the Colorado Trail, Chalk Cliffs, and Cottonwood Pass Road have some sections suitable for inexperienced riders, but a good part of the path is uphill with steep inclines. Your reward for braving the trek? Enjoy the hot springs located midway on the trail and give yourself a relaxing break. The Colorado Trail also has restrooms by their parking area.
Nature lovers will really enjoy the Monarch Crest trail-a 28-mile journey that gives you spectacular views of the Continental Divide. Located not far from Salida, this is a great scenic spot. Utilizing the shuttle to the higher elevation-12,000 feet-is recommended.
White Ranch Park near Golden is over 19 miles of various loops to choose from. Its an old ranch just east of Denver. You will have to share the track with hikers, and the occasional cow, deer, elk, or bear. There are some great climbs, tough descents, roots and rocks to keep things interesting. While technical, it can be a great place for an intermediate biker to hone his skills.
For serious riders who can handle starting out with a 10-mile incline, the Bear Creek Loop provides 20 miles of picturesque views combined with tricky sections of trail. Downhills, rocks, and fast bermed and fast banked corners will test your skills while you can test your speed in the more open areas. This trail follows the edge of the Glenwood Canyon 1,700 feet high above the Colorado River. Contact the local Chamber of Commerce to get a map of the area for just $1.
If you can handle high altitudes-like 12,300 feet-combined with a really vigorous and demanding workout, you will like the Searle/Kokomo Pass. The entire thing-all 18 miles-is a challenge and is definitely for more experienced bikers, but the scenery is spectacular. From serene mountain ponds to stunning wildflowers, you'll enjoy the breathtaking views-if you can catch your breath, that is.
Even more challenging and arduous, expert bikers will experience some fantastic but technical trails on the 32-mile loop called the Double Top Trail not far from Crested Butte, Colorado. Bring along lots of water, though, because the 11,700-foot altitude contributes to dehydration problems. Make sure you're in excellent physical condition before you tackle this one, and then plan to have a blast!
Colorado's biking trails present unique challengers to bikers-like the high altitudes that can cause a lightheaded reaction and contribute to dehydration-but they're also incredible if you want to have fun and stretch your skill level. To ensure safe riding, never bike alone, always take lots of water along with you, and give yourself time to adjust to the high altitude before biking. Then have fun!
About the Author:
PJ has been riding her own bike for years and more recently, she has been riding as a family. Finding a quality, durable beginners bike wasn't easy and the experience
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