I bought my first MB about a month ago. The only trail I have done so far is up South Table Mountain (the trail by NREL), and then to the other end to the lookout point overlooking Golden. I was able to climb the trail non-stop, but I was breathing pretty hard by the time I got to the top. I have a couple buddies who are pretty much in the same boat as me and we are looking for a trail ride preferably somewhere in Jefferson County that us semi in shape newbies could handle for a 2-3 hour trail ride. We don't mind some climbing but are probably not in good enough shape to tackle any real serious inclines and/or technical climbs. Any recommendations for a route that would fit the bill? I understand there is probably not anything out there that perfectly fits our needs, but if you have any ideas of anything that comes close, that would be appreciated. We understand we will more than likely have to hike a bike some and don't mind that either. Thanks.
Green Mountain in Lakewood, Bear Creek, Elk meadow has some lower stuff that would give you a taste of some rocks and roots, 3 sisters has some fun trails, and some climbing you can make your ride as long as you want on these. South Valley has some fun trails with minimal climbing.
Best bet would be to pick up the Front Range Singletrack books vol. 1 & 2 then start checking off the rides.
Enjoy! The heavy breathing never goes away but the recovery time gets shorter and shorter.:thumbsup:
I second the trails that PBR mentioned. I would also maybe add Centennial Cone, just a short drive up the canyon on Hwy 6. It's not too technical, not too much climbing (just start at the main trailheads, don't climb up from Hwy 6), and amazing views. I see a wide mix of skills on this trail, it's great for everybody. If you go up Hwy 6, you can leave the parking lot and either do a full loop or go as long as you want and then turn around.
Lots of options up north at the intersection of 93 and 128.... between Marshal Mesa, Spring Brook, and the rest of the Dirty Bismark trails, you can easily put together rides from 5-25 miles long. Not all single track, but there's some fun stuff to ride over there.
Though maybe a little further than you want to go, I usually take new riders to Flying J Ranch by Conifer. It's a pretty short loop, the vast majority is non-technical, but has a couple short, moderately technical stream crossings, and it isn't too aerobically demanding. This is really about as beginner as the front range gets but I like it a lot more than Green Mountain or Lower Waterton (still closed) which is where most of the new riders seem to go.
I'd be interested in joining in on some rides. I've been mountain biking for a while, but am new to the area, so would love to learn some local trails. My fitness level sucks, so with some time I hope to be able to keep up in a couple of weeks/months. I'm right off the Cherry Creek trail. Anyone going to the COMBA trail day next week? I'd like to go to help with trail work and possibly camp.
I agree with Smmokan...Marshal Mesa is sick and there are tons of trails that can be connected to make any ride as long or short as you want. Lots of climbs rewarded with some really fun DH!
Not JeffCo, but there's a fun newer trail in Castle Rock, RidgeLine, search Ridgeline and you will see some other posts. Nothing too technical, lots of short hills, fast turns and can probably be ridden most of the year. http://www.crgov.com/DocumentView.aspx?DID=296
Not JeffCo, but there's a fun newer trail in Castle Rock, RidgeLine, search Ridgeline and you will see some other posts. Nothing too technical, lots of short hills, fast turns and can probably be ridden most of the year.
I like the recommendation of Bear Creek. Follow the Cobalt Loop, it is about 6.5 miles and has some climbing, rocks, roots, etc. Lots of the stuff you find in the front range but not as gnarly. Bear Creek has a lot of other trails so its pretty easy to rack up the miles.
Whoops...I see this is already linked above and can't delete !
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Mountain Bike Reviews Forum
15.4M posts
515.2K members
Since 1990
A forum community dedicated to Mountain Bike owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about bike parts, components, deals, performance, modifications, classifieds, trails, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more!