Colorado Mountain Biking | Summer Trail Guide

Singletrack Paradise

From desert slickrock to alpine descents

Colorado mountain biking is legendary. The state offers every type of terrain - desert slickrock in Fruita, high-alpine singletrack in Breckenridge, flowy trails in Winter Park, and technical challenges everywhere. IMBA has designated more Epic Rides here than any other state.

Summer transforms ski resorts into lift-served bike parks. Winter Park's Trestle Bike Park is one of the country's largest. Keystone, Snowmass, and others offer similar experiences - ride the lift up, bomb down purpose-built trails, repeat. No climbing required.

Cross-country riders have endless options. The Colorado Trail runs 567 miles from Denver to Durango, with most sections rideable. Shorter epics abound - Monarch Crest, Kenosha to Georgia Pass, the Crested Butte trails. The variety is unmatched.

Top Mountain Biking Destinations

FRUITA

Fruita

Desert riding near Grand Junction. Kokopelli's Trail, 18 Road, Horsethief Bench. Rideable year-round. Slickrock and buff singletrack.

TRESTLE

Trestle Bike Park

Winter Park's legendary lift-served park. 40+ miles of trails from beginner to pro. Jumps, berms, and natural features. Rentals available.

CB

Crested Butte

Birthplace of mountain biking. 401 Trail is a bucket-list ride. Evolution Bike Park. Technical, beautiful, and challenging terrain.

BRECK

Breckenridge

High-altitude riding with stunning views. Colorado Trail access. Family-friendly paths to expert-only descents. Bike park and natural trails.

Mountain Biking Tips

ALT

Altitude Matters

Many trails start above 9,000 feet. Expect reduced performance. Hydrate heavily. Start with easier rides if coming from sea level.

TIME

Start Early

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Hit the trail by 8 AM, finish by 1 PM. Lightning is a real danger at altitude.

RENT

Rent Locally

Many shops offer demos and rentals. Test different bikes for Colorado terrain. Shops know the current trail conditions.

YIELD

Trail Etiquette

Yield to hikers and horses. Downhill yields to uphill. Stay on marked trails. Close gates. Pack out what you pack in.

Mountain Biking