Where to Mountain Bike During Fall in Colorado
During the fall season, the Royal Gorge Region is a prime destination for mountain biking in Colorado. While
the mountains are likely to get snow in October, the lower elevations and warmer, sunny weather of the Royal Gorge Region allow for dry trails in Colorado. Here are a few trails for mountain biking in the fall.
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Did you know with a daily admission to Royal Gorge Bridge and Park you can bring your mountain bike?
Ride the 1,257 wooden planks of the Royal Gorge Bridge that is suspended 956 feet above ground! While it’s a straight and flat ride, biking the bridge is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Look over to the mountainous horizon for views of the Wet Mountains and the Sangre de Cristo range, and watch for the gondola and zip line riders soaring over the Royal Gorge! This will be the ride of your life.
In the Royal Gorge Region, you’ll find various trails to keep exploring. With a new trail system built in 2018, bikers of all levels can find a thrilling ride. The Royal Gorge Park Trails System includes more than 17 miles of single track great for mountain bikers looking for an adventure on wheels. Among several trails, start with the Canyon Rim Trail, continue to the Dark Side of the Moon, and discover The Maze. This trail system takes adventurers around the rim of the Royal Gorge and surrounding hills. Features like sharp turns, high berms, and fun bumps will keep riders of all skill levels coming back for another lap!
Oil Well Flats
Oil Well Flats is a trending trail system for mountain bikers in Colorado. With 13 miles of interconnecting paths, Oil Well Flats offers bikers desert-like terrain for an action-packed ride! Most routes are intermediate in difficulty, but trails like Path of Least Resistance and Fracture are rated beginner. For the expert riders, discover rocky and technical trails like Island in the Sky. Find this area in Cañon City just north of the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.
Hogback Open Space
Geologic wonders await at Hogback Open Space in Cañon City. Named for the Dakota Ridge Hogback Formation, this open space features single track trails for any skill level. Take the whole family along the beginner Greenhorn Trail or round up your group of expert riders for the Dakota Ridge Trail.
South Cañon Trail System
Flowy, beginner trails within the South Cañon Trail System can be found right in town, including Mutton Bustin’ Trail. For a technical, steep ride, journey along the Hard Time Trail where you’ll be rewarded with grand views.
Looking to add more adventure to your mountain bike ride? Opt to fly by the seat of your pants on our Cloudscraper Zip Line, conquer the Royal Gorge on our Via Ferrata climbing routes, and reach new heights on our Royal Rush Skycoaster. You’ll be talking about this Colorado adventure for years to come!