It feels like it’s been an unusually long, wet “mud season” in Summit County. But the trails are starting to dry out and mountain bikes are coming out of storage. It’s time to check those tires, lube those chains and start riding!
Locals know that Breckenridge has fantastic choices in mountain biking trails for riders of every ability. Apparently the word is out, as Singletracks.com — the leading information resource on mountain biking trails around the world — recently named Breckenridge its #1 Mountain Bike Destination, beating out well-known mountain biking meccas such as Moab, Utah and Crested Butte, Colorado in the process.
According to the website, the Breckenridge area is home to at least 53 trails and 672 miles of mountain biking. Of course, everyone has their favorite area trails to ride, but here are two I enjoy regularly:
Mining Ruins on Boreas Pass
Boreas Pass (beginner)
This is a dirt road travelled by cars, so keep an eye out! But the views are spectacular and the grade is gradual, making it a great ride for beginners, families and those looking for a relaxing, relatively easy ride.
Directions: Drive south through Breckenridge and turn left on Boreas Pass Road/County Road 10. Drive 3.5 miles until the pavement ends; park in the dirt parking area on the left. From here, it’s about a nine-mile ride to the top of the pass. Enjoy the views and the coast back down.
Peaks Trail (intermediate)
This popular trail runs from Breckenridge to Frisco (or vice versa). There are plenty of challenges — rocks, roots, steeps and fun downhill sections — for more advanced riders to enjoy. It’s also heavily used (especially on weekends and holidays) so always be aware of other bikers, runners, hikers and dogs.
Peaks Trail near Rainbow Lake
Directions: I like to start at the Frisco trailhead. Heading north on Main Street Frisco (toward I-70) turn left on 2nd Ave. Park in the parking lot at the end of 2nd Ave.; this is the trailhead for the Rainbow Lake Trail and Peaks Trail. The Peaks Trail is well marked. Here’s a detailed map of the entire 8.1 mile route, as well as directions to the Breckenridge trailhead if you want to start there.
Of course, both of these rides (and many of the trails in Summit County) reach elevations over 10,000 feet, so if you’re not used to high-country riding, pace yourself and take breaks when you need to. Bring snacks and water … lots of water. It’s easy to get dehydrated at altitude. And remember that the weather can change unexpectedly, so have layers of clothing available, including lightweight rain gear.
Enjoy your ride!