Colorado’s gorgeous terrain has long been a paradise for dedicated riders. There’s a thrill around every corner, from high-altitude alpine routes to red rock desert floors.
As someone who has crisscrossed the Centennial State by bike more times than can be counted, it’s a pleasure to share an updated look at rides worth lacing up for in 2025.
Expect towering pine forests, oxygen-starved climbs, and sweeping views that might just make you forget how tired your legs feel. Some might say local altitudes exist solely to remind riders how mortal we all are.
Hard to argue when gasping at 11,000 feet in the middle of a trail. But hey, the reward is always worth it. Who doesn’t want to race down singletrack, feeling an invigorating chill in the air and catching glimpses of epic landscapes?
Let’s see what the state has to offer.
1. The Colorado Trail
Location: Spans from Denver to Durango
Length: About 486 miles
Colorado’s namesake route delivers iconic experiences and a hefty dose of challenge. Eight mountain ranges, six National Forests, and six wilderness areas create a massive patchwork of varying terrains. Elevations range from about 5,500 feet in lower sections to a lung-busting 13,271 feet near Coney Summit.
Who’s It For?
- Ambitious riders with an appetite for multi-day adventures.
- Folks eager for a mix of alpine singletrack, rugged sections, and ever-shifting scenery.
Reasons to Ride
- Soaring mountain views that could inspire a thousand social media posts.
- A sense of accomplishment from piecing together sections over a few weekends or tackling the entire thing in one heroic effort.
Pro Tip
Long stretches often lie far from amenities, so thorough prep is key. Stashing supplies in strategic locations can help avoid meltdown moments in the middle of nowhere.
2. Trail 401, Crested Butte
Location: Crested Butte
Length: Around 8 miles
Trail 401 has earned legendary status for good reason. When July hits, alpine meadows erupt with wildflowers and paint the landscape in pinks, yellows, and purples. Sweeping vistas of surrounding peaks add dramatic flair to an otherwise scenic route.
Terrain and Highlights
- An early climb that warms up those quads, followed by a smooth singletrack descent.
- Meadows so lush and vivid, they might distract from the actual riding.
Skill Level
Ideal for intermediate riders looking to test fitness and technique without stepping into full pro territory.
Don’t Miss
The seasonal changes. Wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in early fall, plus that crisp mountain air.
3. Kokopelli’s Trail
Location: Loma, Colorado, to Moab, Utah
Length: Approximately 142 miles
Looking for a multi-day desert-to-mountain journey? Kokopelli’s Trail might be the ticket. Singletrack, 4×4 roads, and country byways weave a route that shifts from rocky desert floors near the Colorado River to higher elevations closer to the La Sal Mountains.
What Makes It Special
- A chance to experience desert sunsets, remote canyons, and glimpses of wildlife crossing your path.
- Rugged sections that provide a hearty dose of “why am I doing this again?” quickly followed by “how can I ever stop?”
Elevation Ranges
Expect altitudes between 4,000 and 8,400 feet, ensuring a bit of a lung workout.
Suggested Strategy
Break it into two or three days if possible. The change in scenery feels even more dramatic when you camp under star-filled skies.
4. Monarch Crest Trail
Location: Near Salida
Length: Around 35 miles
High-altitude riding doesn’t get much more grand than Monarch Crest. There’s a trailhead waiting at over 11,000 feet, which means the initial perspective might include a lively debate with your lungs. Once the gears get going, panoramic overlooks of the Rocky Mountains stretch in every direction.
What to Expect
- Singletrack and doubletrack sections that snake through evergreen forests and across ridgelines.
- Significant elevation changes that reward strong climbers (or folks who can at least fake it for a bit).
Notable Highlights
- Some descents drop into valleys that feel like private slices of wilderness.
- Weather can shift without warning, so keep an eye on the sky.
5. Phil’s World
Location: Cortez
Length: Around 27 miles
Some trails try to humble riders with gnarly rock gardens and massive climbs. Then there’s Phil’s World, known for fast, flowy singletrack that can make even a cautious rider feel like a downhill superstar.
Why It’s Loved
- A roller-coaster-like experience, with banked turns and playful features.
- A well-maintained network that intermediate riders can handle comfortably.
Landscape
- Desert vistas and open terrain for those who enjoy speed without obstructions.
- Occasional juniper and piñon pine clusters provide shade when the sun blazes.
Friendly Advice
Try to hit Rib Cage, a segment with banked turns that conjure up the memory of your first roller-coaster ride as a kid.
6. Buffalo Creek
Location: Near Pine
Length: Approximately 24 miles
A pine forest setting awaits riders who enjoy serenity mixed with occasional bursts of challenge. Trails wind through ponderosa stands, offering that sweet, fresh aroma many associate with mountain getaways.
Riding Style
- Generally smooth and flowing, perfect for intermediate riders ready for extended mileage.
- A handful of rockier sections keep advanced folks entertained and on their toes.
Draws
- Well-maintained singletrack that fosters a sense of rhythm.
- Subtle scenic overlooks, especially early in the morning when light filters through the pines in golden beams.
Tip for Maximum Fun
Pack a picnic for a post-ride break near one of the trail intersections. The setting screams peacefulness (until another group of hooting riders zooms by).
7. Doctor Park, Crested Butte
Location: Crested Butte
Length: About 14 miles
Doctor Park might sound like an easy health checkup, but the main prescription is a serious dose of high-octane singletrack. A sustained climb at the start paves the way for a heart-pounding descent through aspen groves.
Reasons to Go
- A lush canopy that changes color spectacularly in the fall.
- Technical sections that reward advanced riders craving rock-strewn paths and root-laced corners.
Visual Delights
- Views of the Taylor River, which runs alongside parts of the route, add to the allure.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife. Deer and elk sometimes appear in the quieter corners.
8. Palmer Park, Colorado Springs
Location: Colorado Springs
Length: Over 25 miles of interconnected trails
An urban gem that blends city convenience with rugged rock formations and panoramic vistas. Locals often flock here after work or on weekends for a quick escape from traffic and daily routine.
What You’ll Encounter
- A variety of loops, from mild to technical, weaving through scrub oak and eroded sandstone features.
- Eye-catching views of Pikes Peak on clear days, reminding riders that a 14,000-foot giant looms on the horizon.
Who Should Try It
- Beginners testing the waters of singletrack.
- Intermediates and advanced cyclists seeking technical outcrops and surprising ledges.
City Escape Perks
- Quick access to coffee shops, breweries, or comfort food once the bikes are loaded back onto the rack.
9. Lory State Park
Location: Fort Collins
Length: Various loops totaling 20+ miles
Adjacent to Horsetooth Reservoir, Lory State Park provides a mix of rolling hills, forested sections, and sunny meadows. Fort Collins locals often head here to sharpen skills or decompress after a hectic day.
Range of Difficulty
- Trails cater to diverse skill levels, from beginner-friendly loops to advanced segments with steeper climbs and rocky transitions.
- A plus for novices looking to build confidence without the intimidation factor found on some extreme Colorado rides.
Scenery
- Sweeping views of the reservoir and glimpses of the city in the distance.
- Wildflowers in warmer months can create a kaleidoscope of colors.
Handy Suggestions
- Hydrate and carry extra water during summer. The rolling terrain can sneak up on folks unprepared for midday heat.
10. Leadville Trail 100 MTB
Location: Leadville
Length: 104 miles
Known far and wide for its punishing race conditions, the Leadville Trail 100 MTB has become a revered test of endurance. The route starts at 10,200 feet and tosses riders up and over multiple climbs that top out around 12,500 feet.
What Sets It Apart
- The sheer altitude. Oxygen is a valuable commodity when every pedal stroke feels like a thousand.
- Five major climbs, each unveiling fresh reasons to question life choices, followed by the satisfaction that comes from conquering them.
Who Dares to Try?
- Athletes seeking a high-profile race experience or a self-challenge in the rugged heart of Colorado’s mountains.
- Determined souls who equate suffering with a job well done.
Advice for the Brave
- Commit to serious training. Temperatures and weather can shift abruptly, and the body doesn’t always comply when oxygen is scarce.
11. Mineral Belt National Recreation Trail
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Location: Leadville
Length: 11.6 miles
Not every outing needs to be a lung-busting odyssey. The Mineral Belt loop offers a gentler journey through Leadville’s historic mining district. A paved surface makes for straightforward pedaling, and the route is accessible nearly year-round.
Points of Interest
- Scenic glimpses of the Sawatch and Mosquito ranges, plus occasional remnants of the region’s mining past.
- Educational signs along the way that highlight local lore and heritage.
Why It’s Worth It
- Great for families, beginners, or those seeking a more relaxed spin at altitude.
- Perfect for rest days in between bigger undertakings.
Local Tip
Swing by a local café afterward for hot chocolate or a hearty breakfast burrito. Nothing tastes better than refueling at 10,000 feet.
12. Kokopelli Loops, Fruita
Location: Fruita
Length: Varies by loop (Horsethief Bench is around 3.9 miles)
Part of the broader Kokopelli’s Trail network, the loops near Fruita highlight desert riding at its finest. Sandstone ledges, winding singletrack, and remarkable views of the Colorado River make for an exhilarating day on two wheels.
Who’s It For?
- Intermediate to advanced riders who can handle tight switchbacks, rocky ledges, and the occasional fear of heights.
- Anyone chasing a classic Southwest vibe with big sky panoramas.
Best Features
- Horsethief Bench is famous for its challenging entrance and dynamic terrain.
- Early morning or late afternoon rides reward adventurers with warm hues reflecting off the canyon walls.
Practical Suggestions
- Bring plenty of water and protective gear against the desert sun.
- Watch for changing trail conditions after rains, which can transform a smooth route into a mud-fest.
Pro Tips
Colorado’s trails never fail to deliver drama, beauty, and a dash of altitude-induced humility. Each route described here provides a unique slice of the state’s diverse environments.
Some rides flirt with the clouds, stretching across alpine meadows or hugging jagged peaks, while others wind through sunbaked canyons that feel like another planet altogether.
Anyone plotting a big adventure should factor in preparation. That might include:
- Hydration: High elevation and dry air can sap moisture faster than folks realize.
- Gear Checks: Tires, brakes, and suspension all need extra love before hitting remote routes.
- Weather Monitoring: Mountain storms roll in with minimal warning, especially in late summer afternoons.
- Trail Etiquette: Yield to hikers, respect wildlife, and leave no trash. Actually, pick up stray wrappers if spotted. Karma points never hurt.
A gentle reminder that Colorado’s high country can be merciless on riders who arrive unprepared. The reward, though, is an experience that sticks in one’s memory for decades. Could even turn the steep climbs and oxygen-thin air into comedic anecdotes once the pain subsides.
Summary
Colorado’s mountain biking scene remains a dream come true for anyone eager to roll past scenic wonders and put personal limits to the test.
A range of routes awaits—from family-friendly loops near historic ghost towns to epic multi-day odysseys that rank among the most demanding in North America.
No matter which one lands on your list, each offers that addictive blend of sweat, awe, and a dash of self-discovery.
Lace up, load the bike, and set off for the next unforgettable ride. Just remember to breathe—you’ll need all the oxygen you can get.
