Where to Mountain Bike in Colorado (And What to Wear While You Ride)
If you’ve never mountain biked in Colorado, you’re in for a ride, literally. Here, the trails come with altitude, attitude, and unreal views. From lift-served flow trails to peaceful river paths and high-alpine loops packed with wildflowers, this is where singletrack dreams come true.
At Christy Sports, we live for this kind of terrain. Our shops are woven into Colorado’s best mountain towns, and our gear is built for the grind, the glide, and everything in between. Whether you’re chasing vert or just want a cruiser to roll from town to your favorite brewery, we’ve got you.
Here’s a local look at four iconic Colorado biking destinations, and how to gear up for each.
Telluride: Big Peaks, Bigger Smiles
Don’t let the postcard views fool you, Telluride’s trails are the real deal. Telluride Bike Park offers a one-of-a-kind lift-served experience with interconnected freeride, technical, and cross-country trails, plus clinics and guided rides.
Looking for a mellow ride? The Telluride Valley Bike Path is a scenic 6.6-mile out-and-back paved trail that’s perfect for a relaxed cruise. Popular for biking, birding, and running, it’s an easy route that takes about 2 hours to complete.
For a rewarding intermediate ride, check out the Eider to Mill Creek Connector, a fast, flowy singletrack with scenic views, berms, and optional features. Access it by climbing Mill Creek Road or riding up the Jud Wiebe Trail from town. Note: E-bikes are not allowed.
Vail: Smooth Rides, Epic Vistas
Vail Mountain serves up lift-accessed adventure for every rider, no climbing required. With Gondola One and Eagle Bahn whisking you to the top (Bike Haul ticket required), you’ll drop into a mix of smooth beginner flow, rolling intermediate singletrack, and technical descents packed with berms, roots, and optional features. Trails wind through alpine meadows, aspen groves, and high-mountain vistas, making the ride just as scenic as it is fun.
Looking for a scenic, low-key ride through Vail? The Gore Creek Valley Trail is a 12-mile paved path that winds from Vail Village east to East Vail, passing red sandstone cliffs, aspen groves, and quiet stretches of Gore Creek. It’s easily accessed from our Christy Sports locations in Vail Village and Lionshead, and it’s more than just a mellow cruise - this trail connects to some of the area’s best singletrack, including Meadow Mountain, Two Elk, Game Creek, Matterhorn, and the North Trail.
Looking for a ride with big views and even bigger payoff? The North Trail (West Section) delivers. This intermediate, rolling singletrack winds through lush aspen groves and wildflower-filled meadows with sweeping views of the Gore Range and Holy Cross Wilderness. It’s quiet, scenic, and super rideable in either direction. Access it from West Vail via the Buffehr Creek Connector or link in from the Middle Section.
Winter Park: Trail Heaven with a Lift
Trestle Bike Park is one of the best downhill mountain biking spots in the U.S. Think sculpted berms, wooden features, and all the gravity-fed stoke you can handle with 40+ miles of technical and freeride trails. Tickets required.
Easing into the ride? The Fraser River Trail is your go-to. This paved path winds through wildflowers and along the river between Winter Park and Fraser, with stunning views and easy access to nearby trail systems. From there, the trail transitions to packed gravel as it heads toward Tabernash and Snow Mountain Ranch. Keep riding toward Granby Ranch for a fun mix of road, singletrack, and smooth path, all the way into the town of Granby. It’s a perfect ride for cruising, exploring, and connecting the dots between mountain town gems.
Just across the valley from Winter Park, the Idlewild Trail System offers a peaceful escape packed with flowy singletrack, boardwalks, creek crossings, and big mountain views. This intermediate 8.7-mile loop can be customized with plenty of add-on trails, making it as mellow or as challenging as you want. Expect a true backcountry vibe just minutes from town with views of the Fraser Valley, Parry Peak, and Winter Park Resort along the way.
Crested Butte: The Crown Jewel of Singletrack
With over 30 miles of lift-served trails via the Red Lady Express, the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Park is built for every kind of rider—from first-timers to full-send pros. Expect flowy downhill runs, scenic cross-country routes, and a mix of natural and man-made features. Even better? The park connects to Crested Butte’s massive trail network, giving you access to 800+ miles of legendary singletrack across the Gunnison Valley. Bike Haul ticket required – Get yours here.
The 401 Trail Loop is alpine riding at its best: an iconic Crested Butte route packed with wildflowers, aspen groves, and nonstop mountain views. Ride it as a loop from Gothic or shuttle from Schofield Pass to skip the climb. Either way, the trail kicks off with a short, punchy ascent before rewarding you with flowy descents, sweeping switchbacks, and shoulder-high blooms. The upper sections are narrow and exposed, so stay alert and soak in the scenery. After a fast, fun stretch past Bellview Trail, one final climb and rocky crossing lead to a smooth descent back into Gothic.
The Lupine Trail is pure flow: fast downhill, minimal climbing, and wildflower views that peak in summer. Built specifically for mountain bikers, this trail network is a local favorite for quick spins or linking into longer rides like Snodgrass or the Lower Loop. The trail hugs a sunny, south-facing slope above the Slate River Valley, making it one of the first to dry out in spring. You can ride it from Saddle Ridge Lane (no parking, bike or hike only) or from Slate River Road to hit both Lupine 1 and 2. For a longer loop, start in town, take the Rec Path to Saddle Ridge, ride Lupine, then continue to Gunsight Bridge and connect to the Lower Loop back to town.
The Crested Butte Rec Path is a scenic, paved 4.6-mile route linking downtown Crested Butte to Mt. Crested Butte. Lined with wildflowers and mountain views, it’s perfect for a mellow ride, a cruise between town and resort, or a warm-up before hitting trails like Snodgrass or the Slate River. The steady climb near the base adds just enough challenge. Easily accessed from The Alpineer on Elk Ave or our Treasury Center location at CBMR.
Pro Tip: Keep Your Bike Tuned, Always
Whether it’s your own bike or one you’ve rented, a well-tuned ride makes all the difference. At Christy Sports, our expert mechanics handle everything from patching flats to complete overhauls. Brakes squeaky? Shifting weird? We’ll fix it up so your ride is smooth, safe, and stoke-worthy. Learn how to Get Your Bike Ready for Summer in the Rocky Mountains.
Need a Bike? Your Ride Starts Here
With 15 bike rental shops across Colorado, you’re never far from the right ride. Rent online in advance and save 10%, plus every rental comes with a helmet, expert fitting, and local trail advice from people who actually ride here.
🚲 Get the full lowdown: Mountain Bike Rentals 101: What to Know Before You Ride
Gear Up for the Ride: Trail-Tested Apparel & Helmets for Every Rider
Whether you’re cruising paved paths or charging singletrack, Christy Sports has the gear to keep your ride smooth, safe, and stylish. Our biking collection covers everything from high-performance bike helmets and moisture-wicking jerseys to padded liner shorts, trail-ready apparel, and weather-resistant outerwear, all built to handle Colorado’s ever-changing conditions.
For men, the Club Ride Fuze Trail Shorts offer breathable stretch and all-day comfort on rugged terrain, while the Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet delivers lightweight protection with great ventilation. Want performance and style? The Troy Lee Skyline SS Jersey is a trail-ready classic.
For women, the Wild Rye Riley Shorts blend form and function with a flattering fit and durable fabric, while the Troy Lee Lilium LS Jersey keeps you cool, covered, and comfortable. Top it off with a Giro Source MIPS Bike Helmet for confidence on any descent. Wherever you’re headed, we’ve got your back (and head, and legs).
FAQs: Colorado Mountain Biking with Christy Sports
Q: Do I need to reserve a bike in advance?
A: No, but reserving online in advance saves you 10% and guarantees availability. Walk-ins are welcome, but popular models book fast.
Q: Are helmets included with rentals?
A: Absolutely. Helmets come standard with all Christy Sports bike rentals. Downhill bikes include body armor too.
Q: What kind of bike should I rent for Colorado trails?
A: It depends on your ride. Full suspension is ideal for technical singletrack, e-bikes make climbing easier but aren’t allowed on all trails, and cruisers are great for town paths. Our staff can match you with the right setup.
Q: Where are your bike rental locations?
A: We have bike rental shops in top mountain destinations including Vail, Telluride, Winter Park, Crested Butte, Steamboat, Aspen, and more.
Q: Do you offer bike repairs or tune-ups?
A: Yes. Whether it’s your own bike or a rental, our expert bike mechanics offer everything from quick fixes to full overhauls.
Q: How do I know my bike size?
A: Bike sizing is based on height: frame size for adults and wheel size for kids. Not sure what you need? Don’t worry. Our rental experts will make sure your bike is properly fitted when you pick it up in-store, so you can ride with comfort, control, and confidence.
Q: Can I pick up a bike at one location and return it to another?
A: At this time, all bikes must be returned to the same location they were picked up from.
Q: Can I ride an e-bike on Colorado mountain trails?
A: It depends on the trail. Many paved paths and forest roads allow Class 1 e-bikes, but they’re not permitted on certain singletrack trails like Telluride’s Eider to Mill Creek Connector. Always check local trail rules before heading out.
Q: Do I need special gear for mountain biking in Colorado?
A: For comfort and safety, we recommend moisture-wicking jerseys, padded liner shorts, gloves, and a MIPS-certified helmet. Colorado’s weather can shift quickly, so pack a light shell or windbreaker. Christy Sports carries all the trail-tested apparel and protection you need to ride confidently.
Colorado’s Calling. Ready to Ride?
No matter where the trail takes you, steep and rowdy or smooth and scenic, Christy Sports is here to make sure your gear, your ride, and your adventure are dialed. Stop by for bike rentals, shop our trail-tested apparel and helmets, or swing through for a quick tune before your next ride.
Book your rental, get tuned up, and gear up at christysports.com.
OUTSIDE IS BETTER. Especially when the dirt is dry, the sun’s out, and the trail is calling.
Last updated: June 30, 2025
Where to Mountain Bike in Colorado (And What to Wear While You Ride)
If you’ve never mountain biked in Colorado, you’re in for a ride, literally. Here, the trails come with altitude, attitude, and unreal views. From lift-served flow trails to peaceful river paths and high-alpine loops packed with wildflowers, this is where singletrack dreams come true.
At Christy Sports, we live for this kind of terrain. Our shops are woven into Colorado’s best mountain towns, and our gear is built for the grind, the glide, and everything in between. Whether you’re chasing vert or just want a cruiser to roll from town to your favorite brewery, we’ve got you.
Here’s a local look at four iconic Colorado biking destinations, and how to gear up for each.
Telluride: Big Peaks, Bigger Smiles
Don’t let the postcard views fool you, Telluride’s trails are the real deal. Telluride Bike Park offers a one-of-a-kind lift-served experience with interconnected freeride, technical, and cross-country trails, plus clinics and guided rides.
Looking for a mellow ride? The Telluride Valley Bike Path is a scenic 6.6-mile out-and-back paved trail that’s perfect for a relaxed cruise. Popular for biking, birding, and running, it’s an easy route that takes about 2 hours to complete.
For a rewarding intermediate ride, check out the Eider to Mill Creek Connector, a fast, flowy singletrack with scenic views, berms, and optional features. Access it by climbing Mill Creek Road or riding up the Jud Wiebe Trail from town. Note: E-bikes are not allowed.
Vail: Smooth Rides, Epic Vistas
Vail Mountain serves up lift-accessed adventure for every rider, no climbing required. With Gondola One and Eagle Bahn whisking you to the top (Bike Haul ticket required), you’ll drop into a mix of smooth beginner flow, rolling intermediate singletrack, and technical descents packed with berms, roots, and optional features. Trails wind through alpine meadows, aspen groves, and high-mountain vistas, making the ride just as scenic as it is fun.
Looking for a scenic, low-key ride through Vail? The Gore Creek Valley Trail is a 12-mile paved path that winds from Vail Village east to East Vail, passing red sandstone cliffs, aspen groves, and quiet stretches of Gore Creek. It’s easily accessed from our Christy Sports locations in Vail Village and Lionshead, and it’s more than just a mellow cruise - this trail connects to some of the area’s best singletrack, including Meadow Mountain, Two Elk, Game Creek, Matterhorn, and the North Trail.
Looking for a ride with big views and even bigger payoff? The North Trail (West Section) delivers. This intermediate, rolling singletrack winds through lush aspen groves and wildflower-filled meadows with sweeping views of the Gore Range and Holy Cross Wilderness. It’s quiet, scenic, and super rideable in either direction. Access it from West Vail via the Buffehr Creek Connector or link in from the Middle Section.
Winter Park: Trail Heaven with a Lift
Trestle Bike Park is one of the best downhill mountain biking spots in the U.S. Think sculpted berms, wooden features, and all the gravity-fed stoke you can handle with 40+ miles of technical and freeride trails. Tickets required.
Easing into the ride? The Fraser River Trail is your go-to. This paved path winds through wildflowers and along the river between Winter Park and Fraser, with stunning views and easy access to nearby trail systems. From there, the trail transitions to packed gravel as it heads toward Tabernash and Snow Mountain Ranch. Keep riding toward Granby Ranch for a fun mix of road, singletrack, and smooth path, all the way into the town of Granby. It’s a perfect ride for cruising, exploring, and connecting the dots between mountain town gems.
Just across the valley from Winter Park, the Idlewild Trail System offers a peaceful escape packed with flowy singletrack, boardwalks, creek crossings, and big mountain views. This intermediate 8.7-mile loop can be customized with plenty of add-on trails, making it as mellow or as challenging as you want. Expect a true backcountry vibe just minutes from town with views of the Fraser Valley, Parry Peak, and Winter Park Resort along the way.
Crested Butte: The Crown Jewel of Singletrack
With over 30 miles of lift-served trails via the Red Lady Express, the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Park is built for every kind of rider—from first-timers to full-send pros. Expect flowy downhill runs, scenic cross-country routes, and a mix of natural and man-made features. Even better? The park connects to Crested Butte’s massive trail network, giving you access to 800+ miles of legendary singletrack across the Gunnison Valley. Bike Haul ticket required – Get yours here.
The 401 Trail Loop is alpine riding at its best: an iconic Crested Butte route packed with wildflowers, aspen groves, and nonstop mountain views. Ride it as a loop from Gothic or shuttle from Schofield Pass to skip the climb. Either way, the trail kicks off with a short, punchy ascent before rewarding you with flowy descents, sweeping switchbacks, and shoulder-high blooms. The upper sections are narrow and exposed, so stay alert and soak in the scenery. After a fast, fun stretch past Bellview Trail, one final climb and rocky crossing lead to a smooth descent back into Gothic.
The Lupine Trail is pure flow: fast downhill, minimal climbing, and wildflower views that peak in summer. Built specifically for mountain bikers, this trail network is a local favorite for quick spins or linking into longer rides like Snodgrass or the Lower Loop. The trail hugs a sunny, south-facing slope above the Slate River Valley, making it one of the first to dry out in spring. You can ride it from Saddle Ridge Lane (no parking, bike or hike only) or from Slate River Road to hit both Lupine 1 and 2. For a longer loop, start in town, take the Rec Path to Saddle Ridge, ride Lupine, then continue to Gunsight Bridge and connect to the Lower Loop back to town.
The Crested Butte Rec Path is a scenic, paved 4.6-mile route linking downtown Crested Butte to Mt. Crested Butte. Lined with wildflowers and mountain views, it’s perfect for a mellow ride, a cruise between town and resort, or a warm-up before hitting trails like Snodgrass or the Slate River. The steady climb near the base adds just enough challenge. Easily accessed from The Alpineer on Elk Ave or our Treasury Center location at CBMR.
Pro Tip: Keep Your Bike Tuned, Always
Whether it’s your own bike or one you’ve rented, a well-tuned ride makes all the difference. At Christy Sports, our expert mechanics handle everything from patching flats to complete overhauls. Brakes squeaky? Shifting weird? We’ll fix it up so your ride is smooth, safe, and stoke-worthy. Learn how to Get Your Bike Ready for Summer in the Rocky Mountains.
Need a Bike? Your Ride Starts Here
With 15 bike rental shops across Colorado, you’re never far from the right ride. Rent online in advance and save 10%, plus every rental comes with a helmet, expert fitting, and local trail advice from people who actually ride here.
🚲 Get the full lowdown: Mountain Bike Rentals 101: What to Know Before You Ride
Gear Up for the Ride: Trail-Tested Apparel & Helmets for Every Rider
Whether you’re cruising paved paths or charging singletrack, Christy Sports has the gear to keep your ride smooth, safe, and stylish. Our biking collection covers everything from high-performance bike helmets and moisture-wicking jerseys to padded liner shorts, trail-ready apparel, and weather-resistant outerwear, all built to handle Colorado’s ever-changing conditions.
For men, the Club Ride Fuze Trail Shorts offer breathable stretch and all-day comfort on rugged terrain, while the Giro Fixture MIPS II Helmet delivers lightweight protection with great ventilation. Want performance and style? The Troy Lee Skyline SS Jersey is a trail-ready classic.
For women, the Wild Rye Riley Shorts blend form and function with a flattering fit and durable fabric, while the Troy Lee Lilium LS Jersey keeps you cool, covered, and comfortable. Top it off with a Giro Source MIPS Bike Helmet for confidence on any descent. Wherever you’re headed, we’ve got your back (and head, and legs).
FAQs: Colorado Mountain Biking with Christy Sports
Q: Do I need to reserve a bike in advance?
A: No, but reserving online in advance saves you 10% and guarantees availability. Walk-ins are welcome, but popular models book fast.
Q: Are helmets included with rentals?
A: Absolutely. Helmets come standard with all Christy Sports bike rentals. Downhill bikes include body armor too.
Q: What kind of bike should I rent for Colorado trails?
A: It depends on your ride. Full suspension is ideal for technical singletrack, e-bikes make climbing easier but aren’t allowed on all trails, and cruisers are great for town paths. Our staff can match you with the right setup.
Q: Where are your bike rental locations?
A: We have bike rental shops in top mountain destinations including Vail, Telluride, Winter Park, Crested Butte, Steamboat, Aspen, and more.
Q: Do you offer bike repairs or tune-ups?
A: Yes. Whether it’s your own bike or a rental, our expert bike mechanics offer everything from quick fixes to full overhauls.
Q: How do I know my bike size?
A: Bike sizing is based on height: frame size for adults and wheel size for kids. Not sure what you need? Don’t worry. Our rental experts will make sure your bike is properly fitted when you pick it up in-store, so you can ride with comfort, control, and confidence.
Q: Can I pick up a bike at one location and return it to another?
A: At this time, all bikes must be returned to the same location they were picked up from.
Q: Can I ride an e-bike on Colorado mountain trails?
A: It depends on the trail. Many paved paths and forest roads allow Class 1 e-bikes, but they’re not permitted on certain singletrack trails like Telluride’s Eider to Mill Creek Connector. Always check local trail rules before heading out.
Q: Do I need special gear for mountain biking in Colorado?
A: For comfort and safety, we recommend moisture-wicking jerseys, padded liner shorts, gloves, and a MIPS-certified helmet. Colorado’s weather can shift quickly, so pack a light shell or windbreaker. Christy Sports carries all the trail-tested apparel and protection you need to ride confidently.
Colorado’s Calling. Ready to Ride?
No matter where the trail takes you, steep and rowdy or smooth and scenic, Christy Sports is here to make sure your gear, your ride, and your adventure are dialed. Stop by for bike rentals, shop our trail-tested apparel and helmets, or swing through for a quick tune before your next ride.
Book your rental, get tuned up, and gear up at christysports.com.
OUTSIDE IS BETTER. Especially when the dirt is dry, the sun’s out, and the trail is calling.
Last updated: June 30, 2025
