Colorado’s Best Mountain Biking Trails
Get ready to shred some serious dirt! From epic downhill descents to scenic alpine rides, Colorado has it all for mountain biking enthusiasts. It’s time to pedal your way to adventure and unforgettable experiences on these top-notch trails. Here are 15 Colorado mountain bike trails you should be riding this summer!
Top 15 Mountain Bike Trails in Colorado
Our list includes iconic trails that span across the state and picture-perfect biking destinations that offer plenty of options for riders of all ages. Did your favorite route make the list? Let’s find out!
#1. Colorado Trail
The Colorado Trail is a mountain biker’s dream come true. Stretching 500 miles from Denver to Durango, it’s a massive adventure waiting to happen. But don’t worry, you don’t have to ride the whole thing (unless you want to!). It’s divided into segments, so you can choose the ones that suit your skill level and schedule. From smooth, flowing singletrack to challenging climbs and descents, there’s something for everyone. And the scenery? Absolutely stunning. You’ll pedal through forests, cross streams, and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way.
#2. Buffalo Creek
Buffalo Creek is a mountain biking paradise nestled in the Colorado Rockies. It’s known for its smooth, flowing singletrack that winds through dense pine forests and scenic meadows. One of the highlights is the Little Scraggy Loop, offering a perfect blend of fun and challenge. The trail features twists, turns, and occasional technical sections that keep riders on their toes. Plus, the scenery is simply breathtaking, with views of rugged peaks and lush greenery in every direction.
#3. Crested Butte
Crested Butte is a mountain biking mecca in Colorado, offering an array of thrilling trails for riders of all levels. One of its most renowned trails is the 401 Trail, known for its breathtaking views of wildflower-filled meadows and towering peaks. Doctor Park is another favorite, with challenging technical sections and fast descents through aspen groves. Snodgrass Mountain provides a blend of flowy singletrack and rocky terrain, making it a must-ride for intermediate riders.
#4. Monarch Crest Trail
The Monarch Crest Trail near the town of Sargents is an iconic mountain biking destination renowned for its high-alpine beauty and thrilling riding experiences. This epic trail offers riders an exhilarating journey through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, with stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, expansive meadows, and dense forests. The trail traverses challenging terrain, including rocky descents, technical sections, and exhilarating singletrack.
#5. Durango
Purgatory is a mountain biking haven in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. It offers a variety of trails catering to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced riders. One of its highlights is the lift-serviced downhill options, providing easy access to adrenaline-pumping descents with minimal climbing. Riders can enjoy a mix of flowy singletrack, technical features, and stunning alpine vistas.
#6. Fruita
Fruita is a mountain biking paradise in the desert southwest. Known for its unique desert terrain and challenging trails, it offers an unforgettable riding experience for cyclists of all levels. Trails like the Kokopelli Trail and Horsethief Bench Loop showcase the area’s diverse landscapes, featuring slickrock, sandstone formations, and technical descents. Riders can expect thrilling rides with plenty of opportunities to test their skills and enjoy breathtaking scenery. Fruita’s warm, dry climate makes it an ideal destination for mountain biking year-round, with trails suitable for both beginners and experienced riders alike.
#7. Grand Junction
Grand Junction offers an array of thrilling mountain biking trails amidst stunning desert landscapes. The Lunch Loops trail system is especially a favorite among riders, featuring technical challenges and jaw-dropping views of the Colorado River valley. The Ribbon Trail is renowned for its steep, rocky descents and exhilarating singletrack sections. For those seeking longer rides, the Tabeguache Trail offers epic adventures with diverse terrain and panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. Grand Junction’s mild climate makes it an ideal mountain biking destination year-round, with trails suitable for riders of all skill levels.
#8. Winter Park
Winter Park is home to the renowned Trestle Bike Park, offering an exciting mountain biking experience for riders of all abilities. With lift-serviced trails ranging from gentle cruisers to adrenaline-pumping downhill descents, there’s something for everyone. The park also features a variety of terrain including berms, jumps, and technical features, ensuring an exhilarating ride every time. Moreover, riders can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains as they navigate through the lush alpine landscape.
#9. Salida
Salida is a treasure trove for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of trails amidst breathtaking scenery. The Methodist Mountain Trail is a local favorite, featuring smooth singletrack and challenging technical sections. Comparatively, the Arkansas Hills Trail System provides riders with a network of trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experts. With stunning views of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding mountains, Salida’s trails offer both excitement and beauty.
#10. Breckenridge
Breckenridge is a mountain biking destination renowned for its scenic trails and diverse terrain. Chiefly, the Peaks Trail is a classic route that offers stunning views of the Tenmile Range and Dillon Reservoir as riders navigate through forests and meadows. For a more challenging experience, the Wheeler Trail features steep climbs and technical descents amidst alpine scenery. With its high elevation, Breckenridge provides a refreshing escape from summer heat while offering a variety of trails suitable for riders of all levels.
#11. Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is a haven for mountain bikers, offering an abundance of trails amidst stunning alpine landscapes. Firstly, the Emerald Mountain Epic is a must-ride trail, featuring thrilling descents and panoramic views of the Yampa Valley. Buff Pass Loop is another favorite, winding through aspen groves and wildflower-filled meadows with challenging climbs and fast descents. With its extensive trail network, Steamboat Springs caters to riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
#12. Boulder
Boulder is a mountain biking paradise with a variety of trails suitable for riders of all levels. Specifically, the Betasso Preserve offers scenic singletrack trails winding through pine forests and open meadows, providing a perfect escape from the city. Moreover, Walker Ranch Loop is a favorite among intermediate riders, featuring technical sections and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. With its proximity to Denver and diverse trail options, Boulder is an ideal destination for mountain biking enthusiasts seeking adventure close to home.
#13. Leadville
Leadville boasts a wealth of mountain biking trails amidst its picturesque mountain setting. The Mineral Belt Trail offers a scenic ride around the historic mining town, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. For a more challenging experience, the Colorado Trail provides riders with rugged terrain and high-altitude riding opportunities. With its rich mining history and stunning alpine scenery, Leadville offers a unique mountain biking experience unlike any other.
#14. Telluride
Telluride is a mountain biking paradise in the San Juans, offering an array of trails for riders of all levels. Particularly, the Galloping Goose Trail is a scenic ride that follows an old railway grade, providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The Last Dollar Trail offers a thrilling descent through aspen groves and meadows with sweeping vistas of the rugged landscape. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse trail options, Telluride promises an unforgettable mountain biking experience for enthusiasts seeking adventure in the heart of the Rockies.
#15. Moab, Utah
The Whole Enchilada is a must-ride trail for mountain bikers, even though it’s technically in Moab, Utah. Why? Because it’s epic. Picture this: miles of exhilarating downhill sections that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear. The trail starts high in the La Sal Mountains, so you get breathtaking views before you even start riding. Then, it’s a wild ride down through diverse terrain, from alpine forests to rocky desert landscapes. It’s not just a trail; it’s an adventure. Be prepared for technical challenges, but the adrenaline rush is worth it.