Biking Is An Exciting Challenge In Colorado

By Patricia J Walker

Ever dreamed of going on a Colorado biking adventure? The multiple beautiful mountain ranges in the state are the perfect place for adventurous bikers to test their skills and enjoy the great outdoors. But even less seasoned bikers will find great trails in Colorado suitable for their skill levels. Check these out.

Three trails combine to create a long, technical trail encompassing 21 miles. Located near Buena Vista, the Colorado Trail, Chalk Cliffs, and Cottonwood Pass Road have some sections suitable for inexperienced riders, but a good part of the path is uphill with steep inclines. Your reward for braving the trek? Enjoy the hot springs located midway on the trail and give yourself a relaxing break. The Colorado Trail also has restrooms by their parking area.

If you love biking because you just like to enjoy nature, then this next trail is just the perfect one for you. Monarch Crest is a 28-mile trail near Salida. Some of the best views (the Continental Divide) in all of Colorado can be seen right here. Its best to take a shuttle to the top since you will be at an elevation of 12,000.

If you want to challenge yourself with rocks and roots to navigate, steep inclines, difficult descents, and maybe even an odd encounter with a cow, bear, deer, or elk, you'll love the White Ranch Park trail. It's 19 miles long and is great for intermediate bikers because you can choose from different loops with different levels of technical difficulty.

Not far from Glenwood Springs you'll find a 20-mile trail called Bear Creek Loop. It's all uphill for about the first 10 miles, but then you'll follow the rim around Glenwood Canyon high above the Colorado River and get some great views at 1,700 feet. Maps of this trail and area are available for just $1 through the local Chamber of Commerce. You'll find fun and exciting varieties on this trail-from fast banked corners to big open areas that let you really accelerate and both challenging downhill and rocky sections to contend with.

If you can handle high altitudes-like 12,300 feet-combined with a really vigorous and demanding workout, you will like the Searle/Kokomo Pass. The entire thing-all 18 miles-is a challenge and is definitely for more experienced bikers, but the scenery is spectacular. From serene mountain ponds to stunning wildflowers, you'll enjoy the breathtaking views-if you can catch your breath, that is.

You'll need to be in tip-top physical condition to handle the Double Top Trail. This one is 32 miles of high altitude riding at 11,700 feet above sea level with technical trails designed for very skilled bikers. Not far from Crested Butte, you'll really enjoy this trail if you can handle it. But don't forget to take lots of water along. You're going to need it to avoid getting dehydrated.

For fun, exercise, and a unique adventure, you can't beat biking on any of Colorado's many exciting trails. Take it slow, play it safe, stay hydrated, let your body adjust to the elevation, and ride with a group or a friend. And definitely plan to have a good time! - 27772

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