Mountain biking is a thrilling way to experience the beautiful views, stunning wildflowers, and wildlife that Breckenridge has to offer. However, if you are new to the sport, it can be a bit intimidating. Breckenridge offers a wide variety of trails ranging from easy to very difficult. Many of them can be accessed from town so there is no need to load up your bike and drive.
Etiquette Tips
As you bike, keep biking etiquette in mind. Most trails are open to hikers and horseback riders. Some trails even have off road vehicles. Mountain bikers should keep an eye out for and yield to hikers and horses. Bikers going uphill also always have the right of way. If you are unsure about what to do, just stop for a moment and say hello.
What to Consider
When you are looking for trails to ride be sure to consider the elevation gain, type of trail, whether it is road, dirt road or single track, distance, and if it is a loop or an out and back trail. This information will help you decide whether or not a trail fits your comfort level. For tips, recommendations, and even rentals you can always stop into one of the many bike shops in town. They can alert you to any unfavorable trail conditions and let you know what the best trail for your skill level would be.
Three Trails to Try
These three trails are great trails for beginners to get started in mountain biking. Don’t forget to bring water, a snack, a pump, and an extra tube. You never know what might happen out on a ride and it is important to be prepared.
Blair Witch
This is a four mile loop of single track. You can get to the trail from a parking lot off of Tiger Rd. You can access trails to Keystone off of this loop if you are looking for a longer ride. To stay on the loop keep to the left at the intersections. Bikenridge offers more explicit trail instructions.
Blue River Trail
This trail is a simple out and back trail covering about three miles. You can look for it on the first big curve on Boreas Pass Road or you can find it from the Little Mountain Trails near the ice arena. The trail is primarily single track, but there are two short stretches of paved road. It includes a few short climbs, however, the trail only climbs 320 ft. total. This is a very comfortable and rewarding trail that is accessible from town. More detailed directions, pictures, and information are available from MTB Project.
Sallie Barber Trail
This trail will take you past some historic mine sites, alongside streams and through aspen groves. You can ride to this trail from town. It includes paved road, dirt road and single track. The route is about 12 miles long. Go east up Wellington Rd. until it turns into French Gulch Rd. At about 6.7 miles up French Gulch Rd. look for Sallie Barber Rd. that curves to the right. You will look for the single track Barney Ford Trail, follow signs toward Moonstone Tr. and finally take Carter Park Trail back into town. For more detailed instructions see this article from Summit Daily.
Get Started!
Whether you have an hour or a whole day, you can find a trail near Breckenridge that can suit your abilities and time constraints. If you are concerned about starting out on your own, there are also several guided rides and courses offered throughout the summer to learn basic mountain biking skills. Get started biking today!
