BIKE GUIDE
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W
O
ME O C T EL
Winter Park and the Fraser Valley are known as Mountain Bike Capital USA™, and it’s easy to see why: WITH TWO DOWNHILL BIKE RESORTS, AS WELL AS OVER 600 MILES OF TRAILS FOR ALL ABILITIES, THERE ARE VIRTUALLY ENDLESS WAYS TO PUT SOME MOUNTAINS IN YOUR MOUNTAIN BIKING IN WINTER PARK!
Mountain Bike Capital USA™ boasts two liftserved downhill bike parks, Bike Granby Ranch and the Trestle Bike Park at Winter Park Resort. Both parks offer lessons, clinics, equipment rentals, and other services to guests. In addition to our liftserviced resorts, the Winter Park area also has downhill bike trails, singletrack trails, scenic cross-country trails, and paved cruiser trails. This summer is packed full of mountain bike events in Mountain Bike Capital USA™, including the Epic Singletrack Races, Gears and Beers Enduro Race Series and the brand new Rock N’ Ride Bike Tour and Music Festival! The
Winter Park area also offers several friendly bike shops that provide bike and equipment sales, rentals, repairs, tunes, and more. From dedicated dualsuspension bikes to leisurely cruisers to even kid’s bikes and tagalongs, our bike shops have everything you’ll need for a mountain bike adventure in Winter Park! The downhill bike parks, miles and miles of trails, and full-service shops aren’t the only reasons why folks call this place Mountain Bike Capital USA™. At the heart of it all is a fun, friendly, bike-obsessed community that is Winter Park. Come enjoy our mountain hospitality, and find your new favorite trail!
FIND US ON THE WEB! Facebook.com/MTBcapitalUSA Twitter.com/MtnBikeUSA MTBcapitalUSA.com MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
03 WELCOME 05 TRAIL RIDES
05 BEGINNER
10 INTERMEDIATE 14 DIFFICULT
19 OTHER RIDING 24 MAPS 33 TIPS 38 ADDITIONAL INFO 44 GETTING INVOLVED 47 SPONSORS This guide is meant to be an introduction to Mountain Bike Capital USA™. Please visit MTBcapitalUSA.com for complete directions, additional routes and map updates. 800.903.PARK
SPECIAL THANKS TO GUESTGUIDE PUBLICATIONS, LLC FOR PROVIDING SOME ROUTE DESCRIPTIONS TO MAKE THIS GUIDE POSSIBLE
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FRASER RIVER TRAIL
5.5 mi A paved trail that goes from Fraser to Winter Park Resort. This is also a favorite walking and roller blading trail. Hint: it is uphill from Fraser to Winter Park Resort. This is the easiest ride in the area, with the least amount of physical exertion and skill. The trail from Fraser to Winter Park parallels the meadow, then goes through the Town of Winter Park. Cyclists have a choice of either riding on the sidewalk (either side, carefully and yielding to pedestrians) or riding on the highway (following the same rules of the road as a driver of a motor vehicle.) At the traffic light at Vasquez Road, the trail crosses from the west side of the road to the east.You are now back on the bike path. This is the best part! The trail winds along the river and through the Idlewild Campground(where toilets are available) under the highway to Trademark Drive in Old Town. Veer right to Winter Park Drive. Turn left at Winter Park Drive, right at Old Town Drive and follow to Winter Park Resort. Picnic tables and benches are located along the trail.
1 hr
BEGINNER
WITH LITTLE ELEVATION GAIN, THIS TRAIL IS PERFECT FOR BEGINNING MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDERS AND FAMILIES. Be sure to be aware of other users on the trail. Retrace your route to return to town. STARTING POINT: Winter Park Resort, Alco Center or Downtown Winter Park. DRIVING DIRECTIONS: To start at Winter Park Resort, head towards Berthoud Pass out of town to the Winter Park Resort. Park anywhere at the resort and ride back towards town on Winter Park Drive which eventually veers left. Then take your first right on Trademark Drive.You will see the Fraser River Trail on your left. From Fraser, park in Alco and access the bike path between the Alco Shopping Center and Highway 40. The Fraser River Trail runs directly through town on the sidewalks and starts on the east side of the road as you go to Winter Park Resort and the west side of the road as you head to Fraser.
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FRASER TO GRANBY
BEGINNER
11.6 mi
1-2 hrs
Granby Trailhead Parking
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Grand Elk Golf Course
End Elev. 7,951 ft
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are well marked by trail signs. A slight climb brings you 8 miles into the ride when you will cross under Highway 40 via culvert. At this juncture there is trailhead parking as well. The trail dips down for approximately one mile after which you will begin climbing to the trail’s highest ¨ ¦ elevation point (8,729 ft.) As you near Granby Ranch the trail changes from easy to moderate. The trails ends at Kaibab Park in Granby, CO. Travel from Town of Winter Park to Town of Fraser and park on the left at the Fraser Ball Fields. This trail is approximately 16.8 miles with a starting elevation of 8,557 feet
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East Grand Fire Protection - Winter Park Station Headquarters
Trail begins at the Fraser Sports Complex (aka: Fraser Ball Fields) with a slight downward grade toward Tabernash. In Tabernash the trail intersects with CR 526/South 5th St., turn left onto the west side of Highway 40, turn left on GCR 524/Third St, turn right on CR 523, curves into CR 522E, then cross over CR 5221. Turns
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DOUBLE POLE LOOP
6 mi Located at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa From the parking lot bike along Radcliff a very easy gradual trail junction 8 take the Kestrel Trail which climbs gently and increases in difficulty to become a moderate ride. At trail junction 10 take a right for the Double Pole Trail (note Double Pole forks here, if you go left it becomes an advanced trail). Double Pole is a primarily flat but slightly rolling trail that will have you picking up speed on the downhill sections. The trail winds through groups of aspen trees are beautiful when changing colors! Double Pole then leads into Sawmill Meadow, a great place to step off and take a breather for outstanding views of Byers Peak and Winter Park Resort. Hop back onto your bike and continue on Double Pole until you see a yurt just off the side of the
1 hr
BEGINNER
trail. There is no trail junction number posted here so use the Yurt as your turn signal and take Swindler Trail. From Swindler jump back on Radcliff and make your way back to the parking area, or opt for the Lakeside/ Drew Trail and, you guessed it, bike along the lake side on your way back to the parking lot. TRAIL ACCESS: From the Winter Park Visitor Center head north on Hwy 40 towards the town of Tabernash, turn right onto County Road 83. When the road forks keep to the right and follow signs for Devil’s Thumb Ranch. When you arrive at the Ranch park in the lower lot and make your way into the Activity Center to purchase a $5 day pass (required for the trail system at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, unless you are lodging with them) before you set off on the trail.
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GIVELO/NORTHWEST
BEGINNER
5 mi
The trail is flat and winds through Lodgepole Pines. Not too difficult and no climbs allow this to be one of the better easier rides in the area. Funds from the Colorado Lottery helped build portions of the Givelo Trail. Park at the John Work Arena Rodeo Grounds and head west on Givelo Trail. Givelo Trail is a easy single track that parallels CR 73. No climbing other than a few small dips in the trail. After a short distance you will cross CR 50S. Continue on Givelo. You will cross a few driveways. Be careful of cross traffic. Givelo Trail will end at Northwest Passage. Turn right on Northwest Passage. Northwest Passage is about the same difficulty as the Givelo Trail. You will head north away from CR 73 through open forest. Northwest Passage will end on CR 50. Turn around and retrace your route to return to your starting area.
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1 hr
THIS IS A GREAT RIDE TO HELP ANYONE NEW TO MOUNTAIN BIKING GAIN CONFIDENCE ON DIRT TRAILS. Turning left at the intersection of Northwest Passage will take you to Creekside and the trails in that area. STARTING POINT: John Work Rodeo Grounds DRIVING DIRECTIONS: Take US Highway 40 to the only traffic light in Fraser and turn left. Follow the road and veer right. Take a left on CR 73 and look for the Rodeo Grounds on your right. The trail parallels the road.
VISTA RIDGE & SWEET NANCY TRAIL
5 mi
1-2 hrs
Located at Bike Granby Ranch Follow Vista Ridge down and take a right on Cabin Trail, then a left on Rabbit Run. You will pass through beautiful Aspen groves and fields of Sage. Take another right to continue on Rabbit Run, then a hard left onto Sweet Nancy (Sweet Nancy Trail gives you amazing views of the valley). Follow Sweet Nancy to Low Road until you reach Nature’s Way. From there take a left and follow Nature’s Way all the way down to the base of Granby Ranch. There are a few sections of roots and rocks but this ride is family friendly and can be enjoyed by anyone with beginner-high beginner bike handling skills. TRAIL ACCESS: From the Winter Park Visitor Center drive north towards the Town of Granby about (20 min). You will see signage directly off of Hwy 40 for Granby Ranch. Follow signs for Bike Granby
BEGINNER
Ranch where you may park at the base village. The chairlift will be running Thursday-Sunday through September 29, 2014 to transport you and your bike to the top of the mountain where you will begin your ride. If you’d like to test your cardio, or do the ride when the chairlift isn’t running, ride up Nature’s Way from the base. It is a gradual 1,000 ft. climb (an easy uphill that is non-technical) to the Vista Ridge Trail and then continue with the ride as described above.
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CREEKSIDE/FLUME
INTERMEDIATE
5.3 mi
Begin at St. Louis Creek Campground. The trailhead for Creekside is on the north side of the parking area. If you have gone into the campsite you have gone too far, full ride starts from the parking lot. Creekside begins as a two track that is rocky and rutted in sections and slightly uphill with little terrain change at the beginning. The two track will turn into a single track as the trail approaches the creek. The single track trail becomes more difficult with less gravel and larger river rock and more twists and turns. This is the most scenic part of the trail. Large beaver ponds may harbor an occasional moose, so take time to enjoy your surroundings. Creekside will end on FS 159. Turn left and look for Flume trail slightly uphill and on your left side. Enter Flume and be prepared for an extremely fun ride. This trail is a slightly moderate downhill descent with numerous turns, yet is never too hard. The kind of ride that makes your smile hurt. Heavily wooded forests at times gives
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1 hr
way to open meadows full of wildflowers in the spring. The Flume trail gets its name from an old logging flume, which it parallels, for much of the ride. The trail will go through some aspens before reaching the scenic overlook bench. Take time to enjoy the view of Byers Peak and St. Louis Creek. Shortly after the scenic overlook is a trail junction. Straight ahead is Chainsaw, turn left and the trail will take you across St. Louis Creek. Turn left after the bridge and follow an old road back to the campground STARTING POINT: St. Louis Creek Campground DRIVING DIRECTIONS: Take US Highway 40 to the only traffic light in Fraser and turn left. Follow the road and veer right. Take a left on CR 73 for about 2 miles and look for signs on the left. Turn left. Trail leaves from the parking lot.
THIS IS A PHYSICALLY EASY TRAIL BUT DOES REQUIRE INTERMEDIATE OFF ROAD SKILLS.
SOUTH FORK/ BURNOUT/DITCH
7.4 mi
1 hr
INTERMEDIATE
THIS IS A PHYSICALLY EASY/ MODERATE TRAIL WITH BURNOUT LOOP BEING AN AEROBIC, BUT DOES REQUIRE INTERMEDIATE OFF ROAD SKILLS. Depart Winter Park Visitor Center on Rendezvous Way following paved road to dirt. Continue on Ski Idlewild Road towards the blue lift tower. At tower look right for “Meadow Trail”. Begin slightly windy climb and stay straight at junction on Meadow Trail. Climb steadily through Rendezvous subdivision. (Meadow Trail tends to be muddy in the narrow Aspen groves throughout the bike season.) At upper end of Meadow Trail, you briefly cross two paved roads (Friendship Drive). Continue to triangular intersection, take a right onto Crosstrails. Climb up trail 0.1 miles and take left on South Fork Trail. This doublewide section of trail is through mature Lodgepole Pine and Spruce forest. Enjoy descent over whoop-de-dos until reaching South Fork Creek. Take left
over two wooden bridges. Turn left once you cross second bridge. Ride about 100 yards alongside ponds. Cross bridge and take left onto Burnout Loop. After you decend through the meadow, take right onto doublewide trail and climb steadily on rocky road. Take right at the top of the hill onto single track and descend last section of loop. Cross ponds back to South Fork Loop Trail. Stay left (do not go right back over two bridges) and bike through mature Spruce forest with South Fork Creek on your right. In about 0.5 mile you will cross a stream and take left onto Ditch Trail. Ditch Trail is 1.8 miles of fun, fast single track through Lodgepole Pines. Stay left and ascend on Homestead Trail for about 0.3 mile. Stay left at second intersection and descend Homestead back to the Meadow Trail intersection. Take right onto Meadow Trail to return back to Visitor Center.
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ROGERS PASS
INTERMEDIATE
28 mi
Start in the town of Winter Park and ride up the bike path towards Winter Park Resort. Turn right on Trademark Drive, left on Winter Park Drive and left again on Old Town Drive to US Hwy 40. Directly across the road is the Lakota subdivision. Cross US Hwy 40 and ride on Lakota Trail, turn right on Arrow Trail and follow to the Water Board Road (FS 128). Lakota is a private subdivision; please be respectful. Follow FS 128 to Buck Creek about 3 miles. Watch for a road on the right with a FS gate turn right. Buck Creek is a steep climb up an old logging road. Towards the top you have an incredible view of Winter Park Resort and it flattens out a bit. Just as you crest a small hill follow the road to the left a short distance to Corona Pass Road (aka: Rollins Pass or Moffat Road). Turn right and enjoy the ride up the old RR grade. On your left you will
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4-5 hrs ROGERS PASS IS A MUST DO RIDE UP TO THE DIVIDE. DON’T FORGET YOUR CAMERA – IT’S A CLASSIC RIDE WITH SOME KILLER VIEWS! see Broken Thumb; this is the trail you want to take on your way down. Ride up the road 5 miles to the trestle. Rogers Pass Trail is on the south side of the road across from the trestle. It’s a steep climb with lots of loose rocks. Once on top of the switchbacks it gets easier. Ride to the divide and take a few minutes to take it all in. Turn around and prepare yourself for exhilarating ride back down and be sure and ride Broken Thumb on our way back. The first part of Broken Thumb is a gnarly rocky descent. The second half is a smooth cruise through the forest. Broken Thumb ends on FS 128, turn left and ride back to your vehicle.
SERENITY/BLUE SKY/ ICE HILL LOOP
7.2 mi
1.5 hrs
Begin in Winter Park and take the Fraser River Trail to Winter Park Resort. Ride into the Resort and take an immediate right behind the base area buildings. Continue until the road turns to dirt.. At the bottom of the Gemini Lift the road Y’s, stay left until you see Green World on your left (this road was recently rerouted). To access Serenity, climb Green World from the road paralleling the railroad tracks, then make a right at the intersection. This trail is a fun rolling singletrack trail. Serenity merges with the Lower Cherokee. Turn right, then left onto Tracks Trail. Continue on Tracks Trail. Your next left is Ice Hill. Ice Hill is a short and challenging climb; the first part is intimidating and quite steep. The trail connects to an old rocky roadbed. At the end of Ice Hill cross Little Vasquez (dirt road) and turn left, look for Blue Sky on your right. Continue up Blue Sky. This is normally ridden as a descent (watch for other riders) but is a fun climb! Blue Sky is a two track that rides like a single track with just enough
INTERMEDIATE
rocky and root sections to challenge you while not being too difficult. The grade is perfect for an easy climb. At the top of Blue Sky, turn left on the Water Board Road. Continue uphill and don’t worry, it will soon level out. You are now at the top of the final climb, Tunnel Hill. Continue on Tunnel Hill. You will pass Chickadee on your left then begin a downhill. (You can descend Chickadee, a more challenging trail.) Your next intersection is Little Vasquez. Turn left on Little Vasquez; a dirt road that is smooth at the beginning then gradually rockier as you go on. Continue downhill past the bottom of Chickadee, Blue Sky and the intersection of Ice Hill on Little Vasquez to Arapaho Road. Arapaho Road ends at Vasquez Road. Turn right on Vasquez Road into Downtown Winter Park. STARTING POINT: Winter Park Resort DRIVING DIRECTIONS: Take US Highway 40 to Winter Park Resort. Park anywhere at the resort. The trail starts on the south side of the resort.
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BUCK CREEK/ BROKEN THUMB LOOP
DIFFICULT
17.42 mi 3-4 hrs
THIS IS A CHALLENGING RIDE WITH A STEEP CLIMB AND A REWARDING VIEW. A LEGENDARY ASCENT THROUGH OUR MOST HISTORIC AREA. THIS IS WORTH THE WORK! GO PREPARED. YOU WON’T SEE MANY OTHER RIDERS. Start in the town of Winter Park and ride up the bike path towards Winter Park Resort.Turn right on Trademark Drive, left on Winter Park Drive and left again on Old Town Drive to US Hwy 40. Directly across the road is the Lakota subdivision. Cross US Hwy 40 and ride on Lakota Trail, turn right on Arrow Trail a nd follow to the Water Board Road (FS 128). Lakota is a private subdivision; please be respectful. Turn right on FS 128 and continue on the gravel road for about one mile.You are looking for Buck Creek, a logging road, on your left. Buck Creek is normally not marked with a sign but is easy to find because a metal gate crosses the road. Turn left onto Buck Creek and go around the gate. Buck Creek is an aggressive but not technical
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climb. After the grunt of the climb, as you crest a small hill, there will be an intersection. Follow the road to your left. This should bring you almost immediately to the Corona Pass Road (aka: Rollins Pass or Moffat Road). Turn right onto Corona Pass Road, then an immediate left. A short distance ahead you will see a road and sign on your left.This is Broken Thumb. Turn left onto Broken Thumb. Your next intersection will be at an old pond and cabin to your left. Continue to the right along a flat yet sometimes rocky double track. At the end of the double track, turn left onto a short but very fun singletrack. Watch for cars as you exit from the trail onto FS 128. Turn left on FS 128. Follow 128 back to Lakota and cross US Hwy 40 back to the Fraser River Trail. STARTING POINT: Town of Winter Park. DRIVING DIRECTIONS: Take US Highway 40 to the town of Winter Park. Head south out of town towards the Fraser River Trail.
SUNKEN BRIDGE/ZOOM LOOP/UPPER ELK CREEK
11.7 mi
1-3 hrs
DIFFICULT
you reach Upper Elk Creek (go to the second Upper Elk Creek, not the one across from Sunken Bridges). Turn right onto Upper Elk Creek.You will reach an intersection. Continue to the right.. At the top of this short climb, a road will intersect from the right side.Turn right here. This is sometimes not marked as the sign is regularly stolen.This begins the hard part of the ride. Continue uphill.You will reach a two-way intersection.Take a sharp right. Continue ZOOM AND SUNKEN BRIDGES to climb past the next ARE VERY POPULAR TRAILS. FOR THE MORE ADVENTUROUS intersection and through a rocky area, turn right. RIDERS, ADD ON THE UPPER Your descent will be ELK CREEK LOOP. a combination of single track and two track. Continue to Turn right on Zoom. At the bottom where you intersect the bottom of Zoom you will FS 159 immediately across from enter Chainsaw. the top of Sunken Bridges Make a sharp left turn onto STARTING POINT: Elk Creek Chainsaw, which is easy to miss. When you reach Flume stay right Road and Chainsaw DRIVING DIRECTIONS: at the intersection.The trail will take you to a bridge over St. Louis Take US Highway 40 to the only traffic light in Fraser and turn left. Creek. Follow the old road back Stay to left to Elk Creek Road. to the parking area. Drive for about 2.5 miles and For the Upper Elk Creek/ look for a parking lot next to Hump Loop, turn left on FS 159. Chainsaw trailhead. Continue on FS 159 south until Many people start this ride by doing Creekside and Chainsaw to Elk Creek Road to Sunken Bridges. From the intersection of Chainsaw and Elk Creek Road, ride Elk Creek Road for just over one mile until you see the sign for Sunken Bridges on your right. Turn right onto the two track. Continue through the meadow over the bridge and begin a two track climb. At the top of the climb you will intersect FS 159, a dirt road.
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TIPPERARY CREEK
DIFFICULT
29.41 mi 4-6 hrs
ONE OF THE TOP 5 RACE COURSES IN THE WORLD! Begin at the rodeo grounds in Fraser. Head west on Givelo Trail. At the 1st intersection, CR 50S, turn right.. Turn left onto CR 50. Continue on CR 50 look for Tipperary on your left. Tipperary Trail is a steady climb through a meadow. The flat section at the top will lead you to Spruce Creek for your descent. This descent is somewhat technical. Spruce Creek then ends on CR 73, or St. Louis Creek Road. From here ride back to the rodeo grounds, or continue to Creekside, Flume and trails in that area. The next section is Flume and Chainsaw. Turn right on CR 73 then immediately turn left on FS 159. Flume is on the left after the creek. Chainsaw is a rolling trail. Chainsaw ends to the south on Elk Creek Road. From Elk Creek Road make a right then then left onto Elk Meadow. At the end of Elk Meadow take a left onto D2. Climb D2 until WTB, which is
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on your left. Climb WTB to D4 and take a left. Descend on D4 to Vasquez Road FS 148 then take a right, look for intersection on left. Turn left here then at 2nd intersection make another left continue to the 3rd intersection. At 3rd intersection take a left , you are now at top of Blue Sky. Ride downhill to Ice Hill. Ice Hill will take you to Lower Cherokee and a steady climb to Tunnel Hill.From Tunnel Hill you can continue up to Upper Cherokee and onto Winter Park Resort’s trails, or turn left onto Tunnel Hill. As you enter Winter Park Resort, cross Turnpike and begin 300 Yard Walk. You will descend to the base of Winter Park Resort. STARTING POINT: Fraser Rodeo Grounds DRIVING DIRECTIONS: Take US Highway 40 to the only traffic light in Fraser and turn left. Follow the road and veer right. Take a left on CR 73 and look for the Rodeo grounds on your right. The trail parallels the road.
HONORABLE MENTIONS TRAILS
PHASES The area known as the Phases offers great early and late season riding with challenging climbs that will test your skills in places. Trails are solid intermediate and above for fitness and skill level. Trails begin just north of Tabernash at the junction of the Strawberry and Hurd Peak roads. To reach the Phases travel north from Fraser, turn right on the Devils Thumb Road (Co Rd 83) about 1Ž2 mile before Tabernash. Cross the Fraser River, stay left at the T (Co Rd 84). Cross over Hurd Creek and take the next left (2751). This is the Strawberry Road. Park at the top of the first hill just before you enter the woods. The Hurd Creek Road will be on your right. Trails begin off of the Hurd Peak Road just after the 2nd gate (about 1.4 miles on your left)
CARIBOU & STRAWBERRY ROAD Explore the area adjacent to Meadow Creek Reservoir. This less travelled loop offers great scenic views and possible wildlife sightings with lots of camping available.
JIM CREEK A dual track road that follows the Jim Creek gradually making its way up to the heart to of the Continental Divide offering amazing views of James and Perry Peaks.
TWISTED ANKLE A challenging alternative that connects you from FS road 128 to the Idlewild trails.
VASQUEZ/D-4/WTB TRAIL/D-2 TRAIL/ ELK MEADOW/ELK CREEK ROAD Access these local favorites from downtown Winter Park to create a GREAT ride. Enjoy the rolling singletrack trails with some steep up and downs.
BIKE-A-HIKE Try a Bike-a-Hike St. Louis Lake. Starting on your bike head up CR 73 through the Experimental Forest and enjoy a quiet ride on FS 160 until the St. Louis Lake Trail Head. Lock your bike and enjoy a beautiful hike up to St. Louis Lake. MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 17
NEW TRAIL! YANKEE DOODLE
Idlewild Trail System
Proposed Trail (Cross Trails)
Proposed Trail (Serendipity) Proposed Trail (Arrow)
Downtown Winter Park Fr er as Riv
Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, i-cubed, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the GIS User Community
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Arrow Trail System (Project Site Map)
Town Trails (Current & Future) Yankee Doodle - 2013
1 inch = 1,042 feet Produced - October 2013 Data Source - Grand County GIS / NWCCOG GIS
Meadow Trail - 2013
Map Disclaimer: This map was compiled by the Town of Winter Park Planning Department. Every effort has been made to provide the most accurate data, however, the potential for error does exist and the map should be used for general purposes only. This map is not accurate to survey standards. Please notify the Town of Winter Park of any errors at 970.726.8081x201. The Town does not assume liability for any inaccuracies herein contained.
Idlewild Trail System Streams Town Boundary
Yankee Doodle Trail is a two mile trail that currently connects with Corona Pass Road which accesses the Idlewild Trail System. For 2014, an additional 2.5 miles of trail will be built to connect to Yankee Doodle. Serendipity will be constructed from the Forest Service to Yankee Doodle, Cross Trails will be removed from the road and instead will be a singletrack and Yankee Doodle will be expanded to connect with Southfork Trail. These trails will be available to ride in early August.
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You are not alone on the trails. A friendly greeting is a good method to let your fellow trail users know that you’re coming. Try to anticipate other trails users as you ride around corners. Bicycles should yield to all other trail users. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones heading uphill. Strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.
Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Wear appropriate safety gear and plan for rapidly changing weather conditions. 80
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FIND THESE NEW KIOSKS LOCATED AROUND WINTER PARK & FRASER SOON! 18 WINTER PARK, CO
ROAD BIKING
LOVE THE WIDE OPEN ROAD? Granted, Winter Park is known for its incredible mountain biking. But with stellar views and cool temps, there is plenty of great road biking available with many mountain towns to stop and visit along the way. SOME SUGGESTED ROUTES:
WINTER PARK TO GRAND LAKE Number of miles: 35 Difficulty: Intermediate Description: Head north on Highway 40 to Granby. West of Granby, turn aright and head North on Highway 34 to Grand Lake. The terrain rolls more than climbs and offers amazing views of the Lake Granby, Shadow Mountain Lake and Grand Lake. Have a great lunch along the way at one of the local restaurants or in the Town of Grand Lake. This out and back ride makes for a great day of riding.
TRAIL RIDGE ROAD THROUGH ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK TO ROCK CUT Number of miles: (from Grand Lake) 28 miles to Rock Cut, 3,100ft Difficulty: Difficult Description: This is a drive and bike if you are staying in the Winter Park-Fraser area. Drive to the Town of Grand Lake or the Kawunechee Visitor Center on Hwy 34. Ride Trail Ridge Road from the west entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park to the top of the road at Rock Cut. Enjoy incredible views of the valley and peaks that make this Park a gem. Be on the lookout for elk , moose and raptor birds. Enjoy the sweet smell of pine trees and grass as you breathe in the altitude air. Steep climbs are the signature of this ride. The return trip is so much sweeter. Water and food can be found at the visitor centers. You do need to pay the entrance fee of $10 or have a National or Rocky Mountain National Park pass to ride Trail Ridge Road. Weather conditions and traffic change quickly on this ride so be prepared and aware! MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 19
ROAD BIKING
WILLOW CREEK PASS (HWY 125) Number of miles: (from Granby) 26 miles to summit, 1,770ft Difficulty: Difficult Description: Pleasant ride with gradual terrain and less traffic than most of the eastern part of Grand County. The road follows the river and is beautiful. Watch for moose.
BERTHOUD PASS Number of Miles: (Summit of Berthoud Pass, riding North Side) 11 miles one way, 1,920ft to summit Difficulty: Difficult Description: Leave downtown Winter Park or Fraser and follow Hwy 40 up to the top of the pass. The climb is constant but rewarding with a 360 degree view of the Continental Divide and Indian Peaks Wilderness at the top. You can see Rocky Mountain National Park and Longs Peak on a clear day. Be aware of traffic and changing weather conditions. Enjoy the downhill return!
GRAVEL GRINDERS
NOT KEEN ON RIDING WITH SO MANY CARS ON THE HIGHWAY BUT LOOKING FOR A GOOD GRAVEL ROAD RIDE? Try a ride one of the hundreds of miles of gravel roads in Grand County.
CORONA PASS Enjoy this 15-mile rough dirt road to the top of the Continental Divide stopping at the old train trestle, a reminder of the incredible feat of taking trains over the mountain. There are beautiful views of the Winter Park Resort, town and surrounding area, so remember your camera. Drive toward Winter Park Resort and past Idlewild Campground there will be a brown sign stating, “Corona Pass Road”. Take a left and follow signs to Corona Pass/Moffat Road/Rollins Pass/Forest Road 149. It is a slow going road due to loose rocks and erosion damage, but it is navigable in all vehicles, given that you drive with care. It is approximately 14 miles to the top of the Pass. 20 WINTER PARK, CO
CHURCH PARK ROAD About 1⁄4 mile north of Fraser on Hwy 40, turn left onto County Road 5. Pass the Fraser Sports Complex on your right, and take the first left onto County Road 50 – Church Park Rd. After about 2 miles, the road will come to a “Y” intersection. Take a right here, which is County Road 50. After you pass the Crooked Creek Ranch- Young Life Camp, you will be in the National Forest. You will soon see a sign for Forest Roads #139 and #133; stay on FR #139 at the junction for those roads. You have gone approximately 10 miles. Continue on to the junction for FR 134 and FR 139, and veer left to stay on 139. After 13.9 miles you will come to Horseshoe Campground and the Williams Fork River; continue over a small bridge, and turn right at the next junction heading towards the town of Parshall (this is County Rd/Route 3). Continue on for another 14 miles on this road until you reach Hwy 40. Make a right on Hwy 40 to head back towards Hot Sulphur Springs, Granby, and Winter Park (approximately another 30 miles). Ride the Granby to Fraser Trail to return. The trailhead is on Hwy 40 across from the City Market light.
ELK CREEK ROAD In downtown Winter Park turn at the light at Vasquez Creek Road, otherwise known as County Road 148 and head up a couple of miles to County Road 159. The road turns from pavement to dirt before passing a few mountain bike trails on you left and right before taking a right onto County Road 159. Follow County Road 159 up and down between Winter Park to Fraser. Watch for moose as you pass a few other County Roads until you come to County Road 73. Take a right on County Road 73 and enjoy this fun downhill for 3-4 miles to Leonard Lane. Take a left on Leonard Lane through the neighborhood to Eisenhower Drive. Take a right on Eisenhower Drive towards Highway 40. Take a right on Highway 40 for a short distance before finding the Fraser River Trail along Highway 40 toward Winter Park. Continue on the Fraser River Trail past the Grand Park Community Recreation Center toward the Winter Park Visitor Center. The entire ride is approximately 16.5 miles and is rated an intermediate ride. MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 21
BIKE PARKS
BIKE GRANBY RANCH Home to the 2009 and 2010 USA Cycling National Championships, the trails at Bike Granby Ranch (formerly SolVista Bike Park) dish up some of the best downhill mountain biking around. Beginners can kickoff their adventure and test their technical abilities on seven beginning and intermediate trails. Our black diamond and double-black diamond biking trails push the limits of even the most expert downhill mountain bikers. But not to fear, there are some new family-friendly trails too! Bike Granby Ranch’s events include a Women’s Mountain Biking Clinic on July 19th, as well as an ongoing Gears and Beers Enduro race series throughout the summer.
TRESTLE BIKE PARK Trestle Bike Park – Bike Park U.S.A.™ at Winter Park Resort opens June 14. America’s premier full-service bike park features over 40 miles of trails for riders of all ages and abilities, and offers the largest rental/ demo fleet in the country, plus food and lodging to refuel for another day. Trestle also plays host to the Colorado Freeride Festival, the largest freeride festival in the United States every July. The Colorado Freeride Festival attracts some of the best mountain bike athletes from all over the world. Ride, learn, progress, eat, sleep, repeat. 22 WINTER PARK, CO
BIKE PARKS - TIPS
FIVE TIPS FOR TACKLING A BIKE PARK
The words “bike park” might be intimidating for those who are new to downhill biking. But experts say a downhill experience may be just the ticket for people who are new to mountain biking or those who live at lower elevations. “It can be challenging to do cross-country mountain biking at elevation,” says Jamie Wolter, bike park manager at Bike Granby Ranch. “But downhill is different. It doesn’t take aerobic stamina since it’s a gravity-fed experience, which really opens it up to all sorts of people.” Bob Holme, manger of Trestle Bike Park, agrees, noting that the biking entire experience is flipped upside down with downhill since there are no hard climbs to get bikers to the decents. Instead they ride a chairlift up the mountain and ride back down – just like with downhill skiing in the wintertime. So what advice do these local experts have to make a downhill biking experience one to remember for all the right reasons? Here are five tips from the pros. Take a lesson. Both Holme and Wolter say it’s worth the time and effort to take a lesson or enroll in a clinic. Prices typically range from about $40-$80 depending on the class type, group size and length of the lesson. Rent downhill gear. The pros caution riders not to rely on their cross-country mountain bikes for downhill biking. Downhill bikes are built specifically for the sport and feature bigger tires, wider wheels, heavier frames and different pedals, suspension and gear systems. Additionally, body armor pads and helmets (which are more like motocross helmets than bike helmets) can be rented, which help instill confidence. Ride more than one day. By devoting more than one day to riding, notes Holme, bikers can build on their skills and confidence level, leading to a more positive overall experience. Start on easy trails. Downhill trails are rated green, blue, black and double black, just like downhill ski trails. Practice on the green and blue trails before tackling the more difficult terrain, say the pros. Additionally, they note that one shouldn’t assume his or her cross-country skill level translates to downhill because the sports each require a unique skill set. Be open minded and get ready to have fun! “What I always say to people is that they should get ready to have the ride of a lifetime!” says Holme. Wolter adds, “It’s a hoot!”
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 23
OPEN DAILY JUNE 14 - SEPTEMBER 28, 2014 TRESTLEBIKEPARK.COM 970.726.1564 24 WINTER PARK, CO
SNOW MOUNTAIN RANCH
YMCA Summer Trail Map w-Txt.pdf
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other families to experien ce Snow Mountain Ranch when you’re not using your cabin. As shown on the map, si available for renovation. Please contact SMR Center Director Trueman Hoff meist er at ext. 41 01 or thoff mei donation.
26 WINTER PARK, CO
TRAIL MAP
HWY 40 Sunset
Have you thought about be coming a family member of the YMCA of the Rockie s? Membership is not required to stay at either Estes Park Center or Sn ow Mountain Ranch. There are, however, many
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membership. to: • The ability to ma ke your lodge/ cabin reser vation be fore the general public • $15 per night lodging dis count at both locations • 10% dis counts at both center’s general sto res • Access to all recreational and program facilities at both centers • $20 dis count for your child or teen to attend our overnight camp, Camp Chief Ou ray • Unlimited t rails ac cess to summer hike/bike t rails and winter No rdic ski/sn owshoe trails • Free tubing and i ce skating at the Winter Fun Park at Sn ow Mountain Ranch Sign up today! For more information, or to join, contact Tristan Cada, Member and Donor Relations Di rector at 970-887-2152 ext. 4268 or visit us at ww w.sn owmountain ranch.o rg
tain Ranch
ites are available for new cabin construction and existing cabins are ist er@ ymcarockies.o rg for more information of cabin adoption and
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 27
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Stitzmark Campground
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32 WINTER PARK, CO
BIKING FAMILY FUN
WINTER PARK IS A UNIQUE MOUNTAIN BIKING DESTINATION. Not only are the trails easily accessible from town, there are trails for ALL abilities, from the novice rider looking for a paved trail to the downhill adrenaline junkie. The paved Fraser River Trail begins by Winter Park Resort and meanders all the way through the town of Winter Park and into Fraser; this trail “could very well be the most family-friendly mountain biking trail of all time” according to the May/June issue of EnCompass by AAA Colorado.
For more intermediate riders, the Creekside/Flume trail near Fraser features exciting single track right along St. Louis Creek with the perfect bench-viewing of Byers Peak. Perfect place to capture next year’s holiday card family photo. Didn’t bring your bikes? Not a problem. The local bike shops carry a wide variety of bikes, including cruiser bikes, tandems for two people, full suspension mountain bikes, downhill bikes and demos to try out. If towing a little one or two, you can even rent a tag-a-long to tote the kids behind your bike.
For more ways to play with your family in Winter Park, visit our Fun-on-a-Dime section of our website under FUN STUFF: http://www.playwinterpark.com/ Highlighted information includes other outdoor activities, events, fitness, art and museums, and indoor activities.
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 33
HIGH ALTITUDE HEALTH TIPS
NOT TO PRETEND TO BE YOUR MOTHER, but we want to pass along some tips to ensure your health and safety while visiting Winter Park. Yes, you will be at 9,000 feet and the air is thinner and dryer here. Follow these simple tips and you will very likely not even notice the difference.
DRINK WATER Before your trip to Winter Park, and while you are here, drinking plenty of water is the number one way to help your body adjust easily to our higher altitude. The low humidity in Colorado keeps the air dry, like the desert, so you need about twice as much water here as you would drink at home. MONITOR YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE Alcoholic drinks pack more of a wallop than at sea level. It is recommended that you go easy on the alcohol in the mountains, as its effects will feel stronger here. EAT FOODS HIGH IN POTASSIUM Foods such as broccoli, bananas, avocado, cantaloupe, celery, greens, bran, chocolate, granola, dates, dried fruit, potatoes and tomatoes will help you replenish electrolytes by balancing salt intake. WATCH YOUR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY The effects of exercise are more intense here. If you normally bike 10 miles a day at home, you might try 6 miles in Winter Park. PACK FOR SUN With less water vapor in the air at this altitude, the sky really is bluer in Colorado. But there’s 25 percent less protection from the sun, so sunscreen is a must. Colorado receives over 300 days of sunshine each year (more than San Diego or Miami). Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm. DRESS IN LAYERS A few days before your trip, check the weather and use this information to pack appropriately. Because Winter Park is closer to the sun, it can feel much warmer than the actual temperature during the daytime, but then become very chilly after sundown, particularly in the Spring and Fall. It is best to layer your clothing.
ENJOY YOURSELF!
34 WINTER PARK, CO
SAFE RIDING - IMBA TIPS
IMBA developed the “RULES OF THE TRAIL” to promote responsible and courteous conduct on shared-use trails. Keep in mind that conventions for yielding and passing may vary in different locations, or with traffic conditions. RIDE OPEN TRAILS: Respect trail and road closures — ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as required. Be aware that bicycles are not permitted in areas protected as state or federal Wilderness. LEAVE NO TRACE: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don’t cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in. CONTROL YOUR BICYCLE: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits. YIELD APPROPRIATELY: Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to other nonmotorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bikeonly travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one. NEVER SCARE ANIMALS: Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses. PLAN AHEAD: Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 35
BIKE MAINTENANCE BEFORE EVERY RIDE: • Check tire air pressure • Check brakes and cables • Be sure your crank set is tight • Be sure quick release hubs are tight AFTER EVERY RIDE: • Inspect tires for glass, gravel shards, and cuts on tread and sidewall • Check wheels for true • Clean the bike’s mechanical parts as necessary. Once a week or every 200 miles: Lubricate chain (with dry lube; or every other week or 400 miles with wet chain lube).
• Inspect and check for looseness in the: - Stem binder bolt - Handlebar binder bolt - Seatpost binder bolt (or quick release) - Seat fixing bolt - Crank bolts - Chainring bolts - Derailleur mounting bolts - Bottle cage bolts - Rack mounting bolts - Brake and derailleur cable anchors - Brake and shifter lever mounting bolts - Brake mounting bolts
EVERY THREE MONTHS: Inspect frame and fork for paint cracks or bulges that may indicate frame or part ONCE A MONTH: damage; pay particular • Completely clean the attention to all frame joints. bike, including the drivetrain • Visually inspect for bent if necessary components: seat rails, • Inspect chain and freewheel. seat post, stem, handlebars, Measure the chain for chainrings, crankarms, brake wear, check for tight links calipers and brake levers. and replace the chain if necessary EVERY SIX MONTHS: • Inspect and lubricate brake Inspect and readjust bearings in levers, derailleurs and headset, hubs, pedals and bottom all cables bracket (if possible; some sealed • Inspect pedals and lubricate cartridge bearings cannot be SPD style cleats. Inspect adjusted, only replaced). tires for wear; rotate or replace if needed ANNUALLY: Disassemble and overhaul; replace all bearings (if possible); and remove and if necessary replace all brake and shift cables. This should be performed at 6,000 miles if you ride more than that per year. If you often ride in the rain or mountain bikers who get dirty should overhaul their bicycles more often. 36 WINTER PARK, CO
•
TREAD LIGHTLY
QUICK TIPS FOR RESPONSIBLE MOUNTAIN BIKING
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RAVEL RESPONSIBLY on land by staying on designated roads, trails and area. Go over, not around, obstacles to avoid widening the trails. Cross streams only at designated fords. when possible, avoid wet, muddy trails. On water, stay on designated waterways and launch your watercraft in designated areas.
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ESPECT THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS including private property owners, all recreational trail users, campers and others so they can enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed. Leave gates as you found them. Yield right of way to those passing you or going uphill. On water, respect anglers, swimmers, skiers, boaters, divers and those on or near shore.
E
DUCATE YOURSELF prior to your trip by obtaining travel
maps and regulations from public agencies. Plan for your trip, take recreation skills classes and know how to operate your equipment safely.
A
VOID SENSITIVE AREAS on land such as meadows, lake shores, wetlands and streams. Stay on designated routes. This protects wildlife habitats and sensitive soils from damage. Don’t disturb historical, archeological or paleontological sites. On water, avoid operating your watercraft in shallow waters or near shorelines at high speeds.
D
O YOUR PART by modeling appropriate behavior, leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species and repairing degraded areas.
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 37
GRAND COUNTY VISITOR CENTERS Winter Park & Fraser Chamber 970.726.4118 visitorcenter@playwinterpark.com playwinterpark.com
Granby Chamber of Commerce 970.887.2311 grcoc@rkymtnhi.com granbychamber.com
Grand Lake Chamber of Commerce 970.627.3402 GLInfo@grandlakechamber.com grandlakechamber.com
Hot Sulphur Springs Chamber of Commerce 970.531.7588 info@hsschamber.com hsschamber.com
Kawuneeche Visitor Center 970.627.3471 rocky.mountain.national-park.com
Kremmling Area Chamber of Commerce 970.724.3472 christine@kremmlingchamber.com kremmlingchamber.com
38 WINTER PARK, CO
EAT. SLEEP. PLAY.
With over 60 restaurants and bars, Winter Park and the surrounding valley has an exceptional variety of dining EAT establishments. For romance, try dinner at a renovated ranch house. Take the family out for pizza or get Chinese. Enjoy a great Mexican meal or treat yourself to a mouth watering charbroiled steak and fresh seafood. Don’t forget to sample our barbecue and wild game options! Whether it’s a rustic cabin, a guest ranch, a luxurious SLEEP townhome/condo or an economical motel, the wide range of accommodations in Winter Park and Grand County are sure to provide you with your perfect mountain getaway. On a budget? Be sure to check out the DEALS section on our website that include deals on lodging, activities and event tickets. Take one visit to Winter Park and you’ll quickly see why folks call this place Colorado’s Favorite Playground. Located high in the Colorado Rockies, Winter Park offers virtually endless mountain activities for all to enjoy. Playing at 9,000 feet has its advantages – with summer temps averaging 75 degrees, you can escape the heat. Though mountain biking is one of Winter Park’s favorite activities, it’s certainly not the only one. Colorado’s Favorite Playground is also known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes that provide some of the best hiking, camping, and sightseeing in the Rockies. The Fraser and Colorado Rivers and other area waters offer anglers the chance to catch trophy trout on a fly rod. Incredible mountain golf opportunities abound, with four gorgeous golf courses in Grand County. Winter Park also hosts plenty of exciting Signature Summer Events. Upcoming concerts include Blues From The Top on June 27-29, the Winter Park Jazz Festival July 19-20, and free concerts in the town parks every Tuesday and Thursday! The ever-fun Winter Park Beer Festival takes place August 9, and we’ll have a July 4th celebration capped off by a Run for Independence and free SolShine concert on July 5th as well. From mountain biking and hiking to live shows and festivals, there are so many ways to play in Colorado’s Favorite Playground! And that’s just the summertime fun…
PLAY
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 39
BIKING EVENTS
40 WINTER PARK, CO
SIGNATURE EVENTS
High-Note Thursdays June 19-August 14
Rendezvous Rock N’ Ride Weekend July 12-13
Fraser Picnic in the Park June 24-August 5
Winter Park Jazz Festival July 19-20
Blues from the Top June 27-29
Colorado Freeride Festival July 24-27
Lance Gutersohn’s 4th of July Celebration July 4
Winter Park Music Festival August 2
Rendezvous Run for Independence July 5
Winter Park Beer Festival August 9
Solshine Music Festival July 5
Zoppe Italian Circus August 29-Sept 1
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 41
WINTER ACTIVITES
Sure, Winter Park is known for it’s spectacular scenery and for being a family-friendly area, but Winter Park is truly a winter playground for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the good reasons we are known as Colorado’s favorite Playground!
Snowsh oeing
Riding Downhill Skiing &
Snowmobiling & Snowscoots
Cross-country Skiing
& MORE • • • • • • • • • •
Dog Sled Rides Hot Air Balloon Rides Ice Skating Museums & Historical Tours Retreat & Relaxation Sleigh Rides Snowcat Skiing and Backcountry Tours Tubing & Sledding Cinema & Bowling Recreation Centers & Fitness
42 WINTER PARK, CO
USFS
A friendly message from the Forest Service
BE PREPARED •
•
•
Always ride prepared. Carry a map, plenty of water and food, a rain jacket, spare bike tube, bike pump, and repair tools with a patch kit. Even if you don’t know how to change a flat (it’s easy and you should learn), carry a bike tube. Someone riding may help. If you ride with tubeless tires, still carry a correct tube for your tire. If you get a flat, use the tube to inflate your tire temporarily. This fix will get you back to town and to the bike shop. It is best to ride with others instead of solo. But if you are riding solo, tell a responsible person where you are going and when you expect to return. Make sure you call them when you get back. USFS is continuing to work on trail hazard removal. For updates, please visit: headwaterstrails.org/trails-updates or www.fs.usda.gov/goto/arp/sulphurupdates
RULES OF THE ROAD • • • •
When riding on the vehicle road, bicycles are legally classified as vehicles. The same rules of the road apply as for a driver of a motor vehicle. Bicycles must ride with traffic, not against it. Obey all traffic signs. This includes stop signs and stop lights. Always signal your turns. Don’t ride in a pack. Ride single file when on a road.
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 43
HTA
Headwaters Trails Alliance is a non-profit advocacy group for trails in Grand County, CO. It is comprised of county and town planners and trails enthusiasts with a mission to PRESERVE, ENHANCE, AND PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE, HIGH-QUALITY, MULTIUSE TRAIL OPPORTUNITIES IN GRAND COUNTY. In recognition for the need of a county-wide trails organization, Headwaters Trails Alliance was established as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation in 1996. HTA’s original mission and goals were laid out in the 1995 Headwaters Trails Master Plan which was developed through Grand County Planning and Zoning Department with input from town governments, local chambers of commerce, the United States Forest Service (USFS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), Recreation Districts, and local trail groups. Since then, HTA has evolved to serve as an advocate for trails, writing letters in support of trail development and funding; developing local youth outreach programs; and orchestrating dozens of trails projects each year with land management agencies and municipalities through intensive funding and planning efforts. HTA provides the printed and online versions of the Grand County Trails Map, available for free, and manages programs such as: Adopt-a-
Trail, National Public Lands Day, Trails Night, Winter Grooming (for Nordic skiing), summer youth programming (hiking/ backpacking), and Continental Divide Trail Day. With over 800 miles of public trail in Grand County, it would be impossible for the trail system to receive the care it needs without public support! Consider joining HTA and hundreds of volunteers to improve the local trail system, or simply log on to donate.
ADOPT A TRAIL
OUTDOOR RECREATION IS VITAL TO THE PHYSICAL AND ECONOMIC HEALTH OF GRAND COUNTY. Maintenance of multi-use trails is a critical component of sustaining our outdoor recreation opportunities. Due to budget cuts, land management agencies in recent years have been unable to provide the intensive, consistent monitoring and maintenance required to keep trails accessible for all users. The Sulphur Ranger District (USFS) alone has over 450 miles of trail in Grand County, with over 800 miles of public trail dispersed throughout the County on Forest Service, BLM, National Park Service and municipal lands. Increasingly, these agencies and the local community have looked to Headwaters Trails Alliance (HTA) to provide the financial resources as well as the leadership, management, and supervision for necessary trail maintenance. The Adopt-A-Trail program (AATP) gives groups and individuals the opportunity to provide some of the labor hours and resources needed to repair and maintain the trails.
Without such maintenance, many trails would be closed due to resource damage and lack of funding for repairs. By adopting a trail, you not only help to keep our existing trails open and beautiful, but you also increase the ability for us to build more trails in the future. The program requires the adopter to annually provide a report on their adopted trail as well as volunteering one day out in the field. In exchange for that commitment, volunteers are able to dedicate a trail in honor of a business or individual. The Adopt a Trail program is thriving, thanks to a collaborative effort between Headwaters Trails Alliance, US Forest Service, Grand County, and committed adopters.
Visit our website today to learn about how you can get involved and make a difference on your public lands! Contact us at: www.headwaterstrails.org 970.726.1013
GMBA
GRAND MOUNTAIN BIKE ALLIANCE (GMBA)
We are the local advocacy group for mountain biking in the Winter Park area. GMBA is an International Mountain Bike Association Chapter and works closely with all land managers in the area. The Winter Park/Fraser area is currently working on a master trail plan for the area. This will dramatically change and improve the current trail system. Our vision is to have a world class mountain bike experience in the Fraser Valley and Grand County that offers a variety of user experiences in both difficulty and trail length. Also, we envision a trail system that can be easily accessed from the towns and communities and at the same time easily accessed by users entering or departing Grand County (i.e. from Boulder County, Clear Creek County, Jefferson County, Summit County, Jackson County, and beyond). The trail system would have quality trails with seamless connections creating the best possible experience for all users. This will be a dramatic change from the current system and you will see vast improvement of the trails over the next few years. Check out a few of our newer trails such as Twisted Ankle, Yankee Doodle and Chainsaw to get an idea of what is to come.
Keep up with what is happening in Winter Park/Fraser by following us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Grand-Mountain-Bike-Alliance/218397568244526 46 WINTER PARK, CO
It’s not your typIcal day. our day pass gets you miles of family-friendly biking and hiking trails, mini golf, swimming, horseback riding, climbing, archery and much more!
check It out! snowMountainranch.org 970-887-2152 [ on-site mountain bike rentals available ]
MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 47
Mug Pick-Up Party Friday Night at Doc's
VIP Access
Unlimited beer tasting in a commemorative BIG glass mug, catered lunch and private VIP area. Starting at $70.
Unlimited Beer Tasting
(with purchase of tasting mug). Starting at $30.
48 WINTER PARK, CO
Lodging Deals from
Two wheeled inspiration. Meander through open meadows with vistas of the surrounding peaks. Cruise the perfect single track in a secluded forest. At trails’ end reward yourself with a visit to Ranch Creek Spa or one of our award winning restaurants. Get your zen on two wheels.
Guided Rides • Rentals 30+ miles of trails 970-726-8231
3530 County Road 83 • Tabernash, Colorado 80478 MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 49 www.devilsthumbranch.com
50 WINTER PARK, CO
top-notch mountain biking program and bike park in the heart of mountain bike capital USA™ Experience exhilarating downhill, fun and twisty single-track crosscountry, and family-friendly trails. A progression of challenge levels will thrill the most experienced adrenaline junkie, while inviting less experienced riders to a leisurely ride through our extensive network. Lift-served late May through September 28, weather permitting. Don’t have a bike? Choose from our top of the line rental equipment available including Kona, Devinci, and Transition park bikes. Lessons available.
Gears and Beers Enduro Race Series Saturdays, June 14, July 26, August 16, and September 13, 9 am start
she mtb WOMEN’S MOUNTAIN BIKING CLINIC Saturday, July 19, 11 am—6 pm
LIFT TICKET RATES Adult: $28 Child: $15 (12 years and under)
HOURS OF OPERATION* WEDNESDAY–SUNDAY 10 AM–5 PM Open late May–September 28, *weather permitting
GR A NBY R A NCH.C OM | 8 8 8.850. 4 615 MTBCAPITALUSA.COM 51
NEVER GROW UP just find a bigger playground
Colorado’s favorite Playground
800.903.7275 | playWP.co/bike download the app: PlayWPapp.com
52 WINTER PARK, CO