10 Best Mountain Bike Rides in Colorado

ride ideas

March 03, 2018

From high-mountain descents to high-desert paths, Colorado is a mountain biker’s paradise. On top of that, the mild temperatures and scenic views found across the state make it super enjoyable for folks biking in Colorado. If you’re looking for the best mountain bike trail in Colorado, here are the 10 handpicked best bike rides in Colorado:

Doctors Park

Located near Almont, this 19.5-mile loop begins with a steep 2,500 vertical foot climb before changing into a middle-ring double track grunt to the path’s steepest point located at 10,877 feet. From there, Doctors Park transitions into one of the best cross-country downhill cruise the Rocky Mountain State has to offer.

Buffalo Creek

Situated in Pine, Colorado, this track was hailed as one of the best mountain biking trails in the world in 2008. Flowing and speedy, this trail offers tons of steep uphill climbs and punchy downhill glides that will keep you entertained for mile after rugged mile.

Colorado Trail

The mother of all mountain biking trails, this 500-mile trail stretches from Denver to Durango and is littered with awesome cycling experiences. You’ll experience the sprawling views of the Rocky Mountains as you twist and turn your way through the gorgeous landscape. Be careful, as this trail offers some heart-pounding drops.

Lunch Loops

This isn’t your typical office lunch break! This expansive, 40-mile trail is great for both novices and pros. You’ll be greeted by some technical climbs and some great descending paths as well.

Horsethief Bench

Part of the Kokopelli Trail System and located near Fruita, this 3.7-mile loop offers one of the area’s most beautiful and naturally pristine rides. Buckle up for some high-speed loops near the end of the trail and enjoy majestic mountain backdrops along the way.

Trail 401

Located in the Crested Butte region of Colorado, this path is for real adventurers. The path begins at the Copper Creek parking area about a half mile past Gothic Road. This five-mile dirt path grinds across an alpine meadow and offers some breathtaking views of the Maroon Bells Mountains.

Government Trail

This Aspen, Colorado trail offers a sweet nine-mile single track. It starts out moderate, but then gets more difficult along the way, so keep your wits about you.

Zippity Do Dah

Part of the 18 Road Trail System in Fruita, this trail is extremely fun and boasts some of the one-of-a-kind terrain that only Colorado has to offer. It begins as a mellow middle-ring climb and then quickly transforms into a two-wheel roller coaster.

Monarch Crest

Take in spectacular views of the Continental Divide as you pedal this crest right outside of Salida. This 30-mile path is tough and technical early on, but gives way to downhill cruising after that.

Ribbon Trail

Located in Grand Junction, this is a literal playground for mountain bikers. You’ll be burning brake pads in no time as you slither down and along iconic red rock formations.

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