Steamboat Springs Bike Guide 2014

2014 Bike Guide The Guide to Biking the Boat!

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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Table of Contents On the cover Local George Honeycutt enjoying an afternoon ride near the top of Sundown Express at Steamboat Ski Area.

Doug Davis

Larry Pierce

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Welcome ................................... 10 Bike Town USA ......................................... 11 Bike Week ....................................................... 12 Event Calendar ............................................ 14 IMBA World Summit .............................. 15 Trail Project Funding .................................. 16 Bear River Bike Park .................................... 16 Event Round-up .......................................... 17 Enduro-X Racing ......................................... 18 Locals’ Favorite Rides ................................ 20

Rider Profiles .................................................. 22 Titanium Town USA ................................ 24 Bike Shop Round-up ................................ 26 Safe Routes to School.............................. 28 Share the Road............................................. 28 Adaptive Cycling ....................................... 29 SSWSC Update........................................ 30 Routt County Riders ................................. 32

Ride Guide......................... 33 Using this Guide ......................................... 34 Safety ....................................... 35 Bike Tips ........................................................... 35 Riding Right..................................................... 35 Rules of the Road ....................................... 35 Riding with Animals .................................. 35 Family Riding .............................. 36 Municipal Map ........................................... 36 Historic Tour Rides ..................................... 38 State Parks ....................................................... 40 Lil’ Rippers ...................................................... 41 Family Rides..................................................... 42 Town/Mountain .......................... 43 Howelsen/Emerald Trails ........................ 43 Emerald Mountain Map ........................ 44 Beall/Ridge Trails .......................................... 46 Rotary Trail ...................................................... 47 Steamboat Bike Park .................................. 48

Ski Area ........................................................... 49 Skyline Trail ..................................................... 50 Spring Creek Trail........................................ 51 Hot Springs Trail.......................................... 52 Lower Bear..................................................... 53 North Routt ............................... 54 Seedhouse....................................................... 54 Big Red Park ................................................... 55 Nipple Peak ................................................... 56 Grizzly-Helena ............................................. 57 South Routt/Rabbit Ears............... 58 Harrison Creek ............................................. 58 Divide Trail ...................................................... 59 Lynx Pass.......................................................... 60 Road/Mixed-Surface Rides........... 61 Road Map ..................................................... 62 BMX/Pump Trails ....................... 63 Après Downtown........................ 64

2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

Bike Town USA ® Bike Town USA Board of Directors David Scully, President David High, Secretary Chris Sias, Treasurer Executive Committee Harry Martin, Larry Mashaw, Paige Boucher, Jim Schneider, Scott Myller Bike Town USA Executive Director, Tyler Goodman Bike Week Coordinator, Chad Harkins The 2014 Steamboat Springs Bike Guide is produced by the Steamboat Pilot & Today Suzanne Schlicht — Publisher Eugene Buchanan — Magazine editor Lindsay Porter — Creative Services Supervisor Photographers CJ Berg, Aryeh Copa, Doug Davis, Larry Pierce, Joel Reichenberger, John F. Russell, Tom Ross Advertising Sales Reed Jones, Christy Woodland For advertising information, call Reed Jones (970) 871-4225 STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

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Welcome

Letter from the Chair Welcome to Steamboat Springs, Bike Town USA! The 2014 riding season brings many new projects and achievements, building more momentum than ever for cycling in Steamboat Springs. In November 2013, a referendum passed allocating more than $5 million in lodging tax funds to support trail improvement and expansion throughout the next 10 years. Construction of several new trails already is approved to begin this year. This trail funding will be the source of enjoyment for visitors and residents alike for countless years to come.

New online mapping and trail signage

projects with city and land managers also are being implemented, making riding (and way-finding) our trails easier than ever. The new mapping information will be available on the city, Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association, Routt County Riders and www.steamboatbiketown.com websites.

Cycling events again pack the summer calendar, starting with Steamboat Bike Week from June 9 to 14, offering a photo contest at the Bear River Bike Park, a bike swap, bike-in movie, group road and mountain bike rides and more. Steamboat is also hosting the International Mountain Bicycling Association World Summit from Aug. 20 to 24,

celebrating the community’s designation as a bronze Ride Center.

All this and more is truly making Steamboat Bike Town USA. Thank you to everyone who shares our passion to enhance our community and make Steamboat the ultimate cycling experience. Have a great riding season!

— David C. Scully Steamboat Springs Bike Town USA® Initiative board president

Thanks to LENZ Sports for the bikes!

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

We are excited to support biking in Steamboat!

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Bike Town USA ®

Trails, bike events draw riders

Steamboat Springs’ bicycling momentum is rolling strong. Voters recently approved more than $5 million in lodging tax proceeds to go toward building more trails, Routt County Riders spearheaded an effort to win a $33,000 grant from Bell Helmets to build the world-class Bear River Bike Park, and the International Mountain Bicycling Association chose Steamboat to host its IMBA World Summit here Aug. 20 to 24 for the event’s first-ever stop in Colorado.

Add to this a world-class bike path; miles of trail improvements; ride to work and school initiatives; new BMX, pump and freeride options; a top-notch local race series; two bike manufacturers; new downhill rides at Steamboat Ski Area; a couple of classic events like the Tour de Steamboat, Steamboat Stinger and revamped Enduro-X Series; and it’s easy to see why there’s so much hoopla about this bicycling hamlet in Northwest Colorado.

It’s enough that the League of American Bicyclists recently awarded Steamboat its Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community designation,

and IMBA labeled it a bronze Ride Center, one of only 17 such designations in the world.

“Biking help makes Steamboat a year-round destination,” says Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association CEO Tom Kern, whose organization has hosted several national bike media events in town throughout the past few years. “It’s an integral part of our community, just like skiing” The movement has hosted two nationally recognized Bike Summit meetings, produces the annual Steamboat Springs Bike Guide and twice has attracted the USA Pro Challenge to town, most recently with the event’s two-stage stop here in 2013.

But these initiatives aside, it’s the town’s riding options that constitute the backbone of this biking movement. “People are coming here from around the country just to go biking,” Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare owner Harry Martin says. “That’s the main reason it’s getting so much attention. There are just a ton of different options you can do right from town.”

Adds Honey Stinger founder Bill Gamber,

also an avid rider: “Biking is huge here. There aren’t many communities this passionate about riding.”

From town’s lineup of annual bike events and world-class bike path meandering through town to marquee bike manufacturers Kent Eriksen Cycles and Moots calling Steamboat home, there are plenty of reasons to visit and ride.

“We have the full breadth of riders here, from recreational to pros,” Moots Marketing Director Jon Cariveau says. “The town’s access to riding is pretty unique, from Emerald Mountain downtown to its road loops and freeride trails. It just has all the right ingredients.”

Mix those together with a passionate cycling community and Steamboat is the ideal place to pedal, whether you’re on skinny tires or those for the trail. For more information, visit newly designed www.steamboatbiketown. com, stop into any one of our many friendly bike shops or flag a local down on the trail, who’ll most likely become a new friend to visit next time around.

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Bike Week If you’re here for just one week this summer, make it the week of June 9 to 15, when Steamboat Springs officially kicks off its biking season with its second annual Bike Week.

Organized by Bike Town USA and the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association, the festivities include races, rides, clinics and entertainment for riders of all ability levels. Events include free music, a bike-in movie, group rides, clinics and more.

“It should be a lot of fun, with a lot of great bicycling related activities,” says the Chamber’s Marketing Director Kara Stoller. “It’ll help kick off an awesome biking season.”

Info: www.steamboatbiketown.com, 970-875-7002

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Bike Week Events Monday, June 9 10 a.m. Moots Factory Tour 6 p.m. Ride the Rockies entertainment, Acutonic concert, Steamboat Ski Area Tuesday, June 10 3 to 5 p.m. Happy hour at Kent Eriksen Cycles factory 5:45 p.m. Women’s mountain biking clinic, Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare 8 p.m. Ride the Rockies Bike-In Movie, 5Point Film Festival, Routt County Courthouse lawn Wednesday, June 11 10 a.m. Moots Factory Tour 5 p.m. Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series, Marabou Ranch Thursday, June 12 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Opening Day at Steamboat Bike Park 3 to 7 p.m. Routt County Riders Sponsorship Day, Steamboat Bike Park 5 p.m. USA BMX Race at Howelsen Hill

Friday, June 13 9 a.m. Moots road/gravel ride, depart Moots factory for the Emerald loop (clockwise) 10 a.m. Honey Stinger mountain bike ride, meet at BAP 10 a.m. Moots Factory tour 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Steamboat Bike Park open 5 p.m. Bear River Bike Park Jump Jam and Steamboat Shoot-Out photo contest Saturday, June 14 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Steamboat Bike Park open TBD Bike Swap at base area 3 to 6 p.m. Savor Steamboat, base area 7 p.m. Freeride movie “Arrival” by Anthill Films, Chief Theater Sunday, June 15 9 to 10 a.m. Yoga for Cyclists, Torian Plum Plaza lawn 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Steamboat Bike Park open

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SteamboatBikeTown.com Online guides put trails at your fingertips Now you can find everything you need to know about riding in Steamboat Springs in the comfort of your home.

Two great websites exist dedicated to cycling in Steamboat. Local trail advocacy group Routt Country Riders‘ website (www. routtcountryriders.org) includes information on everything from local trail reports and construction updates to riding in Steamboat, volunteer programs and more. “It’s a great tool for anyone looking for information on riding in Steamboat,” says vice-president Eric Meyer.

Bike Town USA’s website (www. steamboatbiketown.com) is an online bike guide filled with interactive trail maps, event calendars, photos and more. Built by riders for riders, the site is organized into geographic riding zones within Routt County and is

segmented by riding type, making information on riding in Steamboat Springs easy to find.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely family cruise, an adrenaline-filled downhill, or a great road ride, www.steamboatbiketown. com has your beta. The website owes itself to the support of partners Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare, Steamboat Bike Shop, Backcountry Delicatessen, the Enduro-X Race Series and Moots Cycles.

Info: www.steamboatbiketown.com, www.routtcountryriders.org

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2014Steamboat Cycling Events JUNE COLORADO BIKE TO WORK MONTH 6: Soda Creek Elementary Bike Rally 7: 1st annual ALS Cog Ride Fundraiser, Wesley Park, Hayden, wesleydearborn@gmail. com, 970-846-2333 9 to 15: Steamboat Bike Week! www.steamboatbikeweek.com 10 and 11: Ride the Rockies stop in Steamboat 11: Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series, Marabou XC, Marabou Ranch www.townchallenge.com 12: Gondola opens for summer season, www.steamboat.com 12: RCR Scholarship Day benefiting Routt County Riders, www.routtcountyriders.org 14: Steamboat Bike Festival and Bike Swap (benefiting Routt County Riders/ Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club), base of Steamboat Ski Area, www.sswsc. org. Vendor info: david@enduro-xrace.com, 970-846-5012 25: Town Challenge Mountain Bike Race Series, Sunshine Loop XC, Mt. Werner, www.townchallenge.com

28: Moots Colorado Ranch Rally (50-mile, dirt/gravel non-competitive ride), www.moots.com/communityblog/

JULY 9: Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series, Emerald Envy XC, Emerald Mountain, www.townchallenge.com 19: Eriksen Tour de Steamboat (fundraiser rides including 110-mile “Gore Gruel,” 40-mile Stagecoach ride and family friendly Core Trail ride), www.tourdesteamboat.com 19 and 20: Steamboat Enduro-X Mountain Bike Series (Rawhide Super D Gravity Race), www.enduro-xrace.com 20: Steamboat Lake Sprint Triathlon, www.withoutlimits.com 23: Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series, Storm Peak Hill Climb, Mount Werner, www.townchallenge.com

AUGUST 6: Town Challenge Mountain Bike Race Series, Soul of Emerald XC, Emerald Mountain, www.townchallenge.com 10: STARS Biking The Boat Charity Ride

Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club cycling programs Road Training Race Series: June 4 and 18, July 16 and 30, Aug. 13 Youth Mountain Bike Program (ages 7 to 11): June 18 to July 23 Development (ages 11 to 15): June 10 to Aug. 22 Bike to Water Ramp (ages 8 to 14): June 18 to July 23 Cycling Fall Prep (entering HS): June 30 to Aug. 15 Elite (ages 15 to 19): May 5 to Aug. 15 Junior (6th grade and up): June 23 to Aug. 7

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Girl Thing (6th grade and up): June 23 to Aug. 7 Mountain Bike Skills Clinics: July 1 and 2, July 8 and 9 Steel Club: May 18 to Aug. 31 BMX: June 19 to July 10; July 17 to Aug. 7 Gravity Team (ages 11 to 18): June 19 to Aug. 21 Gravity Groms camps (ages 9 to 12): June 26 to 28, July 17 to 19, July 31 to Aug. 2 Steamboat High School Composite Team: Aug. 18 to Oct. 19 Info: www.sswsc.org, www.steamboat.com

2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

(56 mile, 26 mile and 10 mile family fun ride), www.steamboatstars.com 16 and 17: Steamboat Stinger Mountain Bike Race (50-mile, plus full/half trail marathons), www.honeystinger.com/steamboatstinger 16 and 17: Steamboat Enduro-X Mountain Bike Series (Sunshine/Thunderhead Enduro Challenge Gravity Race), www.enduro-xrace.com 17: Steamboat Olympic Triathlon at Lake Catamount, www.withoutlimits.com 20 to 24: IMBA World Summit 20: Town Challenge Mountain Bike Race Series, Storm Peak Hill Climb, Mount Werner, www.townchallenge.com 23: Emerald Mountain Epic, 131- and 26-mile charity ride, www.emeraldmountainepic.com 30 to 1: Steamboat Springs Stage Race, presented by Moots Cycles, www.bikesteamboat.com

OCTOBER 4: 7th annual Steamboat Springs Mustache Ride (fundraiser for Routt County Humane Society), www.ssmustacheride.com

Ongoing bike programs and series Town Challenge Mountain Bike Race Series: June 11 and 25, July 9 and 23, Aug. 6 and 20. Info: www. townchallenge.com

19 and 26. Info: www. steamboatskiandbike.com

Team Flying Wheels BMX Race Series: June 12, 19 and 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, Aug. 7. Info: 970871-9500, www.ihigh. com/steamboatspringsbmx

Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare Women’s Tune Up Tuesdays: June 3, 10, 17 and 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26. Info: 970-819-0781, www. steamboatskiandbike.com

Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare Women’s Mountain Bike Skills Clinic and Ride Group: June 3, 10, 17 and 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, Aug. 5, 12,

Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare Basic Bicycle Maintenance Clinic: June 3, July 1.

STARS Sunday Strolls: June 23, July 21, Aug. 4 and 18. Info: www. steamboatstars.com

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

IMBA World Summit hits Steamboat Aug. 20 Steamboat Springs is on the world cycling map yet again, this time hosting the International Mountain Bicycling Association 2014 World Summit from Aug. 20 to 24, an event expected to lure more than 400 mountain bike riders from across the world.

Marking the first time the biennial event has taken place in Colorado, Steamboat was one of 16 locations to apply to the Boulder-based organization for the honor. The most recent IMBA Summit, in 2012, was held in Santa Fe, N.M., with previous hosts including Whistler, British Columbia; Moab, Utah; and Park City, Utah.

“Steamboat is a fantastic venue for IMBA to celebrate trail-building efforts and all things mountain biking,” Bike Town USA President David Scully says. “It’s going to be another great summer for cycling here.”

As for Steamboat winning the bid to host the event, it boils down to everything that makes Bike Town USA such a great place to ride. “There was a bunch of criteria for the selection,” says IMBA events manager Terry Breheny. “Lodging and meeting space came into play, but we also wanted a destination worthy of attracting mountain bikers from across the world and strong community involvement. With a strong chapter in Routt County Riders and all the cycling momentum it has going, Steamboat was very appealing.”

If Steamboat’s event is anything like previous conferences, it will appeal to leaders of cycling efforts in a variety of communities while including plenty of riding and fun.

“It lets bicycling enthusiasts from all corners swap stories about their projects,” says past participant and local trail builder Gretchen

Sehler. “People take a lot of information home with them, which makes mountain biking better for everyone.”

The conference draws mountain bike leaders, industry experts and riders from across the globe to learn about trail building practices, park initiatives, grant processes, working with volunteers and more. Speakers focus on everything from increasing mountain biking tourism to funding community bike projects.

“It’s a pretty big deal that it’s coming here,” says Routt County Riders board member Nate Bird, adding the weekend will end with the Summit-X Enduro Benefit Race. “We’ve been having success after success lately on the bicycling front, and it was a community effort to bring it here.”

Info: www.imba.com/world-summit

Aryeh Copa

IMBA Labels steamboat bronze-level ride center

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

The accolades for Steamboat as a biking community continue to grow. In fall 2013, IMBA named Steamboat a bronze-level Ride Center, making it the first Ride Center in Colorado and one of only 17 in the world. The designation affirms the town’s bicycling infrastructure and promotes Steamboat to a large biking audience.

“IMBA has 35,000 active members and another 100,000 on their contact list, so that’s a big direct market,” Routt County Riders Vice President Eric Meyer says.

“People will see this label and know that Steamboat is a pretty good place to ride.’”

IMBA bills Ride Centers as destinationworthy riding hot spots, where people can ride not just for a quick weekend but an entire week. Locations that apply are judged on such categories as trail experience, where Steamboat scored high, as well as available

services, community involvement, and tourism and marketing efforts.

There is currently one gold-level Ride Center (Park City, Utah); five silver-level centers; and 11 bronze-level centers. Bike Town USA organizers think that the designation proves Steamboat is a great place to ride and follows the city’s effort to climb the ranks as a Bicycle Friendly Community, in which it earned silver status in 2007 and gold-level recognition in 2011.

“To get to that level, you need to have the full complement of riding, from beginner to expert,” Bike Town USA’s Grant Fenton says. “It’s recognition of all the hard work Routt County Riders and other volunteers have been doing. Coming from the world’s largest mountain bike organization, it carries a lot of weight.”

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Town Backs Trails Visitors to Steamboat Springs soon will have plenty of new cycling trails to enjoy.

Thanks to the Steamboat Springs Trails Alliance — including Bike Town USA, Yampatika, Routt County Riders and the Steamboat Springs Running Series — in November, local voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot initiative that includes plans for 46 trail-related projects within 30 miles of town.

Estimated to eclipse $5 million, the dedicated trail funding comes from an existing 1 percent lodging tax created to help fund projects increasing Steamboat’s appeal as a world-class destination. Past funds have been used to help build the Strings Music Pavilion, Tennis Center at Steamboat Springs and Haymaker Golf Course.

For the next 10 years, these funds now will be used to build trails.

The funding marks a shift in the direction of the tax, one that local bikers are ready to embrace.

After a two-year-long process, the proposal was

nominated as a front-runner out of more than 30 proposals and eventually received 71 percent of the vote. The approval also has received accolades from the media, with articles on it appearing in Bicycling and Mountain Flyer magazines.

“This project only happened because there was almost unanimous support,” Routt County Riders Vice President Eric Meyer says. “It’s the largest local funding commitment to this type of project that I know of and has the potential to take Steamboat from a town that already has great trails to one that has a seamlessly connected, world-class trail system for all trail users.”

While some projects might take root as early as this summer, it likely will take a few years for riders to feel the true affect of the funding, he adds. The bulk of the proposed trail mileage is on USFS-managed lands, requiring paperwork before breaking ground. A steering committee has been formed to prioritize projects in proposal.

“We have an amazing opportunity in front

Aryeh Copa

$5.1 million for trail improvements

of us,” Routt County Riders board member member Nate Bird says. “The revenue offers the chance to create an enormous, interconnected trail system rivaling anything out there. The sky is the limit as to what we can pull off. Steamboat stands to be a shining case study of what can be accomplished to bolster trail infrastructure while building revenue in a tourism-based economy.”

Info: www.steamboatspringstrails.com

Dirt jumpers and bike park aficionados now have a new place to air their wares. One of Steamboat Springs’ newest additions, the Bear River Bike Park, now is primed and ready for pedalers of all walks, thanks to grants from Bell Helmets and IMBA and additional support from Routt County Riders and the city of Steamboat Springs.

Located next to the skatepark at the western end of the Yampa River Core Trail, the Bear River Bike Park got a turbo-sized boost last summer when Bell Helmets and IMBA RCR donated more than $33,000 and thousands of man-hours to make it yet another worldclass cycling amenity for town.

“A lot of people laid the groundwork to get the plan approved and complete the two pump-track loops in Phase 1,” Routt County Riders’ Eric Meyer says. “Without all their hard

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work, we wouldn’t have been able to complete phase two.”

For last fall’s improvements, Bell Helmets funded the majority of the work thanks to Steamboat out-voting three other larger cities, including Minneapolis and New York City, to win the $33,000 Bell Built grant, sponsored by Bell and IMBA. IMBA hired Flowline Trail Design to build the park, with help from Routt County Riders volunteers. The Steamboat Springs Public Works Department, Routt County Road and Bridge Department, Rouge Resources and Certified Welding also all donated services and/or equipment, making it a true community project.

“It truly fills a void that town had for dirt jumping,” says volunteer Aryeh Copa. “It’s an asset to this community, letting riders test themselves on a full lineup of pro-level jumps. Kids can also

2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

Aryeh Copa

Bear River Bike Park Rolling Strong

get into the action with progressive terrain, from a small pump track to a gradually building lineup of berms and jumps. It’s truly a world-class bike park.”

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

Steamboat Cycling Events Want to try your hand at a race, tour or other cycling event? This summer’s bicycling season in Steamboat offers plenty of opportunity to join in an event large or small, long or short.

takes riders from Steamboat over Rabbit Ears and Gore passes and back (with plenty of aid stations en route). “It’s a great event for a great cause,” Eriksen says. This year’s ninth annual event will be held July 19.

Info: www.tourdesteamboat.com

Town Challenge Mountain Bike Series all summer

Steamboat Stinger Aug. 16 and 17

Rarely does an event better solidify the local cycling scene than Steamboat’s annual Town Challenge Race Series. Held every summer, the six-race series offers hill-climb and cross-country events with 24 categories, from pro/open and three different age groups for men’s and women’s expert, sport and novice divisions to kids categories and even single-speed. Points are awarded for each race (best five of the six), with the results tallied for top bragging rights at a raucous party at season’s end. This year’s races will be held June 11 and 25, July 9 and 23, and Aug. 6 and 20. Riders can register ahead of time online or at the city’s Parks, Open Space and Recreational Services Department office, or on-site on race day. “It’s become more popular than ever, with more and more locals and visitors turning out each year,” says the series’ Gretchen Sehler, adding that the races draw as many as 200 riders each week. “It’s a super fun time and great way to bring riders together.”

Info: www.townchallenge.com

Sting or be stung. That’s the mantra behind this year’s fourth annual Steamboat Stinger race, hosted

by Steamboat’s own Honey Stinger. Serving up a healthy dose of punishment Emerald Mountainstyle, this year’s event will lure 500 mountain bikers to town to race 50 miles up and over Emerald Mountain twice, in a two-loop circuit. This year’s event, to be held Aug. 16 and 17, again will offer solo and duo divisions as well as half- and full marathon trail races. Up to 500 mountain bike and 400 runner spots are available.

"Racing is in our DNA, so this is a great way to promote our local, world-class trail system,” Honey Stinger’s Len Zanni says. “It's become a marquee event of the summer for a lot of riders."

Eat plenty of Honey Stinger if you hope to beat the course record set by 2013 men’s winner Russell Finsterwald, who finished in 4:07:58. Eat even more if you hope to earn the coveted King Sting and Queen Bee categories, awarded to those who both ride and run.

Info: www.honeystinger.com

Tour de Steamboat July 19

Steamboat Enduro-X Mountain Bike Series July 19 and 20, Aug. 16 and 17, Aug. 24

When mountain bike hall of famer Kent Eriksen first created the Tour de Steamboat, a motley crew of 80 riders pedaled a 50-mile loop to Oak Creek and back. Now, the event draws as many as 1,000 riders each year, all while benefiting local nonprofit organizations.

The noncompetitive event offers rides of three distances, including a 40-mile Stagecoach ride, family-friendly Yampa River Core Trail ride and the infamous 110-mile Gore Gruel, which STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

Enduro-X riding comes full force to Steamboat this summer, thanks to sponsors Alpine Bank, Steamboat Ski Area, Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare, Dave Chase Rugs & Furniture and more, who are teaming up to bring the Steamboat Enduro-X series to the mountain. The downhill-riding action kicks off with the Enduros the weekend of July 19 and 20, and continues with the Sunshine

and Thunderhead Enduros on Aug. 16 and 17 and the Summit-X on Aug. 24, wrapping up the 2014 IMBA World Summit and benefiting Routt County Riders and the Bike Town USA initiative.

Info: www.enduro-xrace.com

Emerald Mountain Epic Aug. 23 On Aug. 23 you can take to the trails of Emerald Mountain for a good cause. Sponsored

by SmartWool, Wyndham Vacation Rentals, Bolle, Alpine Bank, Honey Stinger, Christy Sports and Gondola Pub & Grill, the 13- and 26-mile supported mountain bike charity ride benefits the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association’s Gold Medal Initiative to support the development of top level Alpine, freestyle, and Nordic combined athletes. A post-ride party and barbecue will be held at Howelsen Hill Park in the afternoon.

Info: www.emeraldmountainepic.com

Steamboat Stage Race Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 The idea for the Steamboat Stage race started when founder Corey Piscopo moved to town in 2008 and saw an opportunity for a new event on Labor Day weekend drawing road racers from across the state. The event’s uniqueness stems from its stage race format, similar to the Tour de France, requiring racers to compete in all four days of racing. It also offers 10 racing categories for men and women, based on age and ability, with equal prize money for the pro men and women. This year’s fifth annual stage race is slated for Aug. 30 to Sept. 1. “It’s great because you get pro riders racing right alongside locals,” Piscopo says, adding that this year’s event should draw nearly 400 competitors.

Info: www.bikesteamboat.com

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Enduro-X Series

Summit-X coincides with IMBA World Summit The Steamboat Enduro-X Race Series returns

the uphill pain. Showcasing it to a worldwide

resort has done a fantastic job on all of its new

for a second season this year with multi-stage,

audience during the IMBA World Summit is an

trails.” Adds Scully: “This year’s series offers new

gravity-oriented races scheduled for July 19 and

incredible opportunity.”

trails and courses that will challenge riders’ skills

20, Aug. 16 and 17, and the new 3,600-vertical

The Enduro-X race weekends will feature

and fitness.”

Summit-X Enduro on Aug. 24, coinciding with

multiple stages descending between 3,000

the International Mountain Bicycling Association

and 2,000 vertical feet on technical mountain

Bank, Steamboat Ski and Resort Corp.,

World Summit and benefiting Routt County

bike trails and bike park courses, with transitions

Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare, David Chase Rugs

Riders and the Steamboat Bike Town USA

between stages served via the Steamboat

& Furniture, Honey Stinger, Power Ice, Gravity

Initiative.

gondola. All events will be held on at the

Anomaly, FOX, Mountain Flyer Magazine,

Steamboat Bike Park and the mountain’s

Royal Racing, SmartWool, Backcountry

mountain bike racing held on some of the

cross-country single track trails. Racer categories

Delicatessen, Wheels Bike Shop, Orthopaedics

resort’s favorite cross-country and bike park trails.

include Pro-Open (with a series purse of

of Steamboat, Steamboat Bike Shop, Sheraton

“Anyone who likes mountain biking should

$7,500), Amateur, Master and Junior for men

Steamboat Resort, The Ptarmigan Inn, Holiday

check it out,” says event director David Scully,

and women. “It was a great series last year, and

Inn of Steamboat Springs, Mountain Resorts and

adding that all you need is a bike with 4" to

this year’s should be even better,” says local rider

more.

6" of suspension. “It’s the downhill fun without

Peter Kalmes, who won last year’s crown. “The

Info: www.enduro-xrace.com, 970-846-5012

What is Enduro racing? It’s descending-only

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

Sponsors of this year’s series include Alpine

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

Tim Murphy

ELK RIVER GUEST RANCH The place to stay for amazing riding, beautiful scenery and fun.

21045526

· Comfortable, fully-equipped cabins and fun teepee camping with direct access to extensive singletrack · Scenic and challenging area road rides · Bike rentals · Hot tub to relax after your ride · Saloon, to unwind with a local craft beer

Book online at www.elkrivergr.com or call 970-879-1946 STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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Townie Trails

10 locals share their favorite rides Mark Satkiewicz,

president of SmartWool, triathlete “I have three favorites: the coal mine through Stagecoach loop, which has five great climbs; a 78-miler up Elk River Road to Columbine and Seedhouse (I go early and always see animals); and an in-town ride through Dakota Ridge and to the school house and then my office — it’s 30 miles, close to home and offers the best of everything: climbing, flats and lots of people riding around.”

Nathan Johansing, co-owner of Butcherknife Brewery “The number one ride for me is a combination of Lower Bear, Hot Springs, then up Mad Creek over to Red Dirt. The dirt on Lower Bear allows you to arc turns on a bike like skis on a freshly groomed trail. Plus, there’s always wildlife either in the way or spectating the ride.”

Jon Cariveau, marketing director of Moots “I like Coal Mine-Trout Creek, a mix of dirt and pavement perfect 20

for my cyclocross bike. I take Twentymile Road to the coal mine, then turn left toward Oak Creek and descend to (Routt) County Road 29.

Then I turn right and climb along Trout Creek for 9 miles before descending into Oak Creek. From there, it’s south on (Colorado) Highway 131 to the Stagecoach turn-off, then rolling along the reservoir to the ranger station on the north side of the lake. Next, I take the dirt road (#18) to the dam, continue along the Yampa into Pleasant Valley, turn left onto County Road 14, right onto 14E and cross over 131 to south River Road and roll back to town. Total mileage: 65. Best shared with friends.”

Rishi Grewal, three-time 24-Hours World Champion and former National Road Champion “Easily my favorite trail ride is to ride up the ski area and then descend back on Pete’s Wicked trail to Cathy’s Cutoff to Sunshine to Moonlight to Valley View and finally Yoo Hoo. It’s a fun ride that will test all your skills and leave you satisfied to have made it to the bottom safely.”

Kent Eriksen, owner of Kent Eriksen Cycles “Out my back door by Strawberry Park Hot Springs. We ride Lower Bear to Elk Park Road, cross the

2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

creek and keep riding up Upper Bear. Then we hike-a-bike across Summit Park and up Ball Bearing Pass for an incredible overlook into the Zirkels. From there we retrace our route. It’s all downhill, technical at first, then simple flowing singletrack back home.”

Bill Gamber, president of Honey Stinger “My favorite ride is right behind my house off Strawberry Park Road, involving various routes up and down Two-track, Upper and Lower Bear, the Elk Park Road and Hot Springs Trail. It’s all great singletrack in a wilderness setting, with everything from open meadows to forests of aspen and pine.

Plus, you can soak in the hot springs after your ride.”

Corey Piscopo, founder of Steamboat Stage Race “The climb up Buff Pass. It’s on dirt and takes you to some incredible spots. You can ride to it from town and be out in remote wilderness with incredible views pretty quickly.

It’s great when the gates are closed, restricting cars and leaving the road entirely to bikers. Plus it climbs 3,100 feet in 10.5 miles, so it’s solid training.”

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

Kelly Boniface,

Caroline Lalive,

Olympian and president of Fleischer Sport “I like the Divide Trail starting from Dumont Lake on top of Rabbit Ears Pass. It has all the elements of a fantastic ride — scenery, little traffic, rolling terrain, limited climbing, singletrack and a few easy technical aspects. You can ride it fast and go for it or take it easy with a lakeside lunch stop along the way.”

professional mountain bike racer “No question — Emerald Mountain is my favorite place to ride in the whole valley. I can coast down from my house and be riding fantastic singletrack in just five minutes.

With the new trails on the backside, I can ride up there all day and never do the same trail twice. It’s a gem right in our backyard.”

downhill/ super-G Olympian, 1998, 2002 “Larry’s Trail on Emerald Mountain, finishing with a quick trip across Prayer Flag Meadow. It reminds me of a giant slalom ski race, with its sweeping, banked turns.

The meadow feels like my own private oasis. I often stop and marvel at this hidden spot in the middle of town. It’s one of my favorite places in Steamboat.”

Aryeh Copa

Chad Fleischer,

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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Rider profile

Trevyn Newpher

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patrolling trails, testing trail and features for quality control — the real back-of-the-house leg work.

I'm pretty fortunate that my job revolves around being on a bike.

What’s your favorite bike?

This year I’ve partnered with Santa Cruz Bikes, which I’m really excited about. My new V10 Carbon should hopefully provide a good platform for some results this season.

What would people never guess about you?

I have an addiction to dark chocolate and coconut water.

Any hobbies outside of biking?

Riding my dirtbike/moto is always a second choice for me. During the shoulder seasons, I am usually traveling to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to teach kiteboarding. I dabble with the guitar now and then, do a bit of amateur videography, and herd cats on the side, as well.

Any particular goals for this year?

Finish top five at the National Championships; attend Regional Downhill events; win the Enduro-X Series; place top 25 at the Enduro World Series at Winter Park; double our Bike School numbers to over 1,000 students; attend North American World Cups; and attend one European World Cup. — Marley Loomis

Courtesy of Trevyn Newpher

I eventually found I had a rather natural talent within the sport. My buddies started driving and chasing girls but I really found a connection with two wheels. It honestly took up most of my time and energy.

Do you have a favorite place to ride?

In terms of bike parks, there are so many developing now that it’s hard to pick just one.

However, Whistler, British Columbia, would have to take top honors as the mecca of all bike parks. Luckily, the same people who built the Whistler Bike Park are helping Steamboat build theirs. A current favorite for me in the Steamboat Bike Park is Rawhide.

Any suggestions for a longer ride?

If I'm feeling like pedaling and have the greater part of a day to ride, I'm usually up on the Divide.

What’s been the peak of your career?

Last summer at Nationals was my best result.

With a schedule filled with Enduro racing and Steamboat as my training grounds, I managed a seventh-place finish at the Angel Fire Bike Park in New Mexico. This secured me enough points to compete within the World Cup Series this summer.

What do you do when you aren’t training?

I stay pretty busy with the bike park operations here at Steamboat. Teaching lessons,

Courtesy of Trevyn Newpher

Born in Ashland, Oregon, Trevyn Newpher, 32, surprised everyone, including himself, by fancying bikes, what he calls “two-wheeled tools of adventure.” Spending his adolescence near Cleveland, Ohio, he grew up riding BMX, building jumps and sailing Lake Erie. After attending Davis and Elkins College, he began taking annual trips to Steamboat Springs, where he’s now lived for more than a decade. An elite racer since 2005, he also has 10 years of coaching under his belt and is the director of Steamboat Bike Park for Steamboat Ski Area, which he samples as often as he can.

What keeps you here in Steamboat?

It’s world-class skiing in the winter and world-class mountain biking in the summer. Once you get a chance to spend some time here and engage the community, you’d be hard pressed to find a better mountain town to call home.

When did you start biking?

During high school I had many friends who rode BMX regularly. I honestly wasn’t interested in it at first and was reluctant to try the sport at all. I’d steal my brother’s bike while he was at soccer practices and found it to be incredibly fun and challenging.

What motivated you to keep pursuing this sport?

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Rider profile

Peter Kalmes What keeps you here?

Steamboat is one of the coolest places I’ve ever been. It has great weather, unbelievable snow and awesome people. I met my wife here and couldn’t think of a better place to raise a family.

What’s your favorite place to ride in town?

It’s so hard to decide — I’m really starting to like the ski area with all its new trails, but Emerald is still the best. It’s close, as easy or hard as you want to make it, and as short or long as you want. It never gets boring.

Any special training and race routines?

I mix it up between road riding, cross country, downhill and cross-training as much as possible.

For races, I try to get a good warm-up and stretch in, but I’m never on time, so this is usually cut short. My best results seem to come after a dinner of pizza and two beers.

Favorite bike?

Probably the one I have now — a Trek Remedy 9. I’m smiling every second I’m on it.

A close second would be the GT performer (freestyle BMX) that I got when I was in eighth grade. It was so cool and a blast to play on and take to the jumps.

What was your worst crash?

No great stories, but the classic “Look mom no hands” when I was about 7 on the hill in front of my grandma’s house. There was so much blood that vultures started to circle. That same year, I got a new bike and made my mom put it together. I got halfway down the street and the front wheel fell off!

What do people not know about you?

My secret favorite Pandora station is George Jones radio.

Any hobbies outside of biking?

Mostly normal mountain stuff like skiing, hiking and camping. Also, anything I can work on in the garage. When I’m done racing bikes, I’d like to find more time to play hockey, hunt, fish and get a fast car.

— Marley Loomis

Courtesy of Peter Kalmes

Wisconsin native Peter Kalmes, 33, who moved to Steamboat Springs in 2002, knew he was meant to be a biker from a very young age. He’s taken that premonition to heart big time, winning last year’s inaugural Steamboat Enduro-X Series and finishing fourth in an uberstacked field at the annual Steamboat Stinger race. Married to wife Genevieve, Kalmes works for Dan Vargas Construction when not riding and can be found hitting Steamboat’s endless trails every chance he gets.

When did you start biking?

I was 4 or 5. I must have just seen other kids doing it, and wanted to try. Then a few years later, I saw the movie “Rad,” and that’s all I wanted to do.

How did you end up in Steamboat?

I came directly from Yellowstone, where my best friend from back home (Wisconsin) got me a job. I saw a position in Steamboat at the job fair in Yellowstone and thought it looked cool, so here I am.

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

23

Titanium Town

Bike shops proud to call Steamboat home John F. Russell

While it might not be the center of the bicycle manufacturing universe, Steamboat Springs does have two homegrown bike companies that are quietly solidifying Steamboat’s place in the bike-building world. And the reason they’re here is the same reason as it is for everyone else who comes here to ride: the quality of life and access to prime pedaling.

Moots Moots has been handcrafting the finest high-performance titanium road, mountain and cyclocross bicycle frames and select components from its facility in Steamboat Springs since 1981.

Its success owes itself to both its designs as well as a staff that lives and breathes cycling, and can often be found testing their products on local roads and trails.

The Family that bikes together......

Frank X Becker

Architect / Design-Build Becker Architecture 970-846-8016 frank@beckerarchitecture.com www.BeckerArchitecture.com

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

Kelly Becker

Broker, The Metzler Team Colorado Group Realty 970-846-2300 www.SteamboatLife.com kelly@mybrokers.com

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

"We’re fortunate to be surrounded by hundreds of miles of incredible singletrack, scenic paved roadways and winding backcountry county roads," says marketing manager Jon Cariveau. "It’s amazing to be based so close to such great riding, which our employees take advantage of every day."

Long recognized for its quality designs, Moots won top honors at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show for its Trail Maintenance Bike — a rideable, all-inclusive bike that carries critical trail tools, including a chainsaw — which won the Best Themed and People’s Choice award. The company was also recently selected out of 400 nominees as a Colorado Company to Watch by the State Office of Economic Development in 2011, was named Sustainable Business of the Year for 2013 by the Steamboat Sustainable Business Consortium, and most recently was selected as one of the “Perk”iest Companies in Colorado by ColoradoBiz Magazine.

Supporting the town it loves, the company also sponsors numerous community and industry

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

advocacy movements, from local trail workdays to the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club Cycling Team. With an eye on protecting the environment, it also employs a cutting-edge recycling program and solar system to power its manufacturing.

"We strive to lead the way in the design and building of the most innovative, high-performance titanium bikes in the industry,” says Cariveau.

“We’re proud of the bikes we create, the team that builds them and the character of the town we call home.”

Moots offers guided factory tours Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. www.moots.com, 970-879-1676

Kent Eriksen Cycles Kent Eriksen, 58, has played a pivotable role in introducing mountain biking to both Steamboat as well as the entire United States. Owning local bike shop Sore Saddle Cyclery in the 1970s, he produced the region’s first cycling map before going on to found Moots in 1981 and being elected into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame in

1996. He left Moots in 2005 to found Kent Eriksen Cycles downtown, another Steamboatbased bike company specializing in titanium-made cycles.

Producing up to 200 frames per year and making bikes of all styles — road, mountain, cross and touring — the company specializes in custom cycles, taking customers’ measurements down to the millimeter as part of the building process. Eriksen Cycles recently won the Best Titanium Construction award for the fifth year in a row at the North American Handmade Bicycle Show.

“Steamboat is a special place to live, and its wealth of biking options make it even better,” says Eriksen, who can often be found riding a handmade tandem mountain bike with his wife and business partner Katie Lindquist. “The quality of life here is wonderful. It’s easy to balance work and fun in a town with so many outdoor activities available. I couldn’t imagine living anyplace else.”

For tours and more information, contact 970-879-8484, www.kenteriksen.com.

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Bike shop round-up Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare When Harry Martin moved to Steamboat Springs from Jackson, Wyoming, in 1995, he saw an opening for a ski and bike store focused on service. Located at 442 Lincoln Ave., with another storefront on the mountain, Steamboat Ski & Bike Kare has been voted town’s best bike shop three years in a row. “Our bike mechanics are some of the best in the business,” shop manager Derek Hodson says. “The business is always changing and they know how to fix anything.”

Best sellers on the retail side include Trek, Giant and Italian road bike manufacturer Wilier. With 20 employees in peak riding season, the store offers rentals (high-end demos, hybrid road bikes, front- and full-suspension mountain bikes, child bikes, tag-alongs, trailers and more), retail and repairs, catering to locals as much as visitors. “Our staff is very passionate about riding,” says Martin,

whose store sponsors the Town Challenge series, Steamboat Stage Race, Bike to Work Week and more. “We cater to all aspects of riding, from people wanting cruisers for local mustache rides to mountain and road bikers. Steamboat’s just a fantastic bike town.”

Info: Downtown: 442 Lincoln Ave., 970-8799144; Mountain: 2250 Apres Ski Way, One Steamboat Place, 970-899-6350, www. steamboatskiandbike.com

kids bikes, trailers and more), service and retail, carrying such lines as Moots, Pivot, Ellsworth, Ridley and Orbea — brands Webster maintains are perfect for the “enthusiast” rider. “We’re not a cookie-cutter store,” he says. “We choose our lines carefully. We also stock a greater number of parts than any shop I’ve ever seen. Service is the engine that keeps things rolling around here.”

Info: 1136 Yampa St., 970-879-2957, www.orangepeelbikes.com

Orange Peel

Ski Haus

Founded in 1999, Orange Peel, located at 1136 Yampa St., is Steamboat’s bikes-only shop, and it shows. “That’s what differentiates us,” says owner Brock Webster, a former U.S. elite rider.

“We’re the only shop in town that focuses solely on bikes.”

With a peak season staff of 11, whose combined experience totals hundreds of years, the shop offers rentals (high-end demos, cruisers,

With some of his store’s bike technicians working there for more than four decades, Ski Haus manager Murray Selleck credits his store’s success to a staff that’s passionate about riding.

Come summer, the store’s newly expanded basement turns into a beehive of bike activity, offering rentals (full- and front-suspension mountain bikes, road bikes, cruisers, child bikes, tandems, trailers, tag-alongs and more), repairs and retail.

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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Garage doors open up outside to create a great open atmosphere, and the store strives to offer something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros. “Our retail line is extensive, with prices in performance for everyone,” Selleck says.

Locals tip: Visit it when the Specialized and Rocky Mountain demo vans visit.

Info: 1457 Pine Grove Road, 970-879-0385, www.skihaussteamboat.com

offers a complete rental (cruisers, mountain and road) and demo line, as well. It also prides itself on giving back to the community, supporting such organizations as the Yampa Valley Sustainability Council and the "Giving Bikes Back" refurbishing and donation program.

Info: 841 Yampa St., 970-870-1974, www.wheelssteamboat.com

Wheels Bike Shop

J.R. Thompson’s new Blue Room Velo fills what he calls a unique niche in Bike Town USA: on-site repairs. The mobile bike repair service will show up to your house to repair your bike, and if it requires more work, he’ll take it back to his workshop. “Steamboat’s ready for another resource,” says Thompson, noting that waits for repairs at local shops can be more than a week during peak season. Thompson adds that he also plans to branch out into bike rental delivery service. “I’m committed to making it a great service for Steamboat,” he says.

Info: 970-846-5922; www.blueroomvelo.com

Wheels is a small, independently owned and operated bike shop located along the Yampa River downtown, specializing in tunes and sales.

“We gain our clients by friendly customer service, word-of-mouth referrals and our knowledge of bicycles,” says owner Chris Johns, a former competitive rider.

On the retail front, Wheels is Steamboat's Yeti Cycles dealership, happily bringing customers into the folds of the “Tribe.” It services bikes of all walks — including mountain, racing road, freeriding, downhill, townie and more — and

Blue Room Velo

Other Rental Locations Boomerang Sports Exchange/Powder Pursuits Buying and selling used mountain, road and cruiser bikes, with sales of cruisers and kids’ Glides downtown and new on-mountain rental program (single- and seven-speed Micargis) through Powder Pursuits.

Info: 1125 Lincoln Ave., 970-870-3050 Christy Sports Trek full- and front-suspension mountain bike rentals. Child bikes and trailers also available. Helmets included.

Info: 1835 Central Park Plaza, Steamboat, 970-879-1250, www.christysports.com Fleischer Sport Carrying a full line of hard-tail and full suspension bikes (including Santa Cruz), as well as cruisers, kids’ bikes, tag-alongs and more for outings on the mountain.

Info: One Steamboat Place, 970870-0900, www.fleischersport.com One Stop Ski Shop Rentals of mountain bikes, as well as rechargable electric bikes.

Info: 35 11th St # 130, 970879-4754, www.onestopskishop.net Steamboat Bike Shop The most convenient location to the Steamboat Bike Park. Fleet includes full-suspension, downhill mountain bikes from Specialized and more. Rentals include a full face helmet, shin and elbow pads and bike gloves. Cruisers also available, as well as gondola tickets, bike park passes, lessons and guided tours.

Info: 970-871-5348, www.steamboat.com

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Safe Routes to School Biking to school is getting safer for kids in Steamboat thanks to the town’s Safe Routes to School program, a community-wide effort aimed at making Steamboat easy and safe for kids to commute by bike or foot.

The program’s mission is “to inspire kids to bike to school,” coordinator Paige Boucher says. It does this by organizing safety and skills rallies to make riding and walking fun and safe, and producing and distributing promotional materials, including a Colorado Department of Transportation endorsed Safe Routes to School map highlighting the safest routes from various neighborhoods to area schools.

“It’s a great program that’s gaining a lot of momentum among kids in the area,” Boucher says.

“It’s another example of how bike friendly of a community this is.”

Info: www.saferoutessteamboat.com

Safe bike riding tips Preparing to ride

Riding awareness and safety

• Choose the route with the fewest streets to cross, even if it’s longer.

• Wear brightly colored clothes. Tie your shoes and secure long laces and loose pants. Don’t wear headphones.

• Wear a properly fitted helmet (no more than two fingers between chin and chin strap).

• Check that tires are firm and brakes work.

• Ride a bike that fits (when straddling, both feet should be firmly planted on the ground; when seated, hands should reach the handlebars).

• Don’t carry anyone else on your bike, or anything in your hands (use a backpack or basket).

• If riding in the dark, use headlights, tail lights and reflectors and wear bright clothing with reflective material.

• Before entering a street, look for other vehicles to the left, right, in front and behind.

• Pay attention to your surroundings. Watch for other vehicles and hazards, such as potholes and parked cars.

• Watch for vehicles turning into or exiting driveways.

• Watch for parked vehicles that may back up, pull forward or open a door.

• Ride in a straight line with two hands on the handlebars unless signaling.

• Before changing lanes or turning, always check in front and behind for traffic.

• On sidewalks or paths, ride slowly and be prepared to stop quickly. Pedestrians have the right of way.

• Dismount if crossing at a stoplight crosswalk.

Share the Road Cyclists in Steamboat Springs now have an even better rapport with drivers sharing their roads. The city of Steamboat Springs, Routt County and LiveWell Northwest Colorado recently teamed up to beef up the local Share the Road campaign. The spring push includes a fresh look and a stronger digital presence in the name of educating residents and visitors about sharing local roads and using trails responsibly.

“We want to keep this message rolling,” says city engineer Ben Beall, adding that the new campaign includes new educational graphics and posters as well as a new website on the city’s homepage (www.steamboatsprings.net/ biketrails) dedicated to trail etiquette and road rules, and a new Safe Roads to School map for kids and parents, www.saferoutessteamboat.org.

A mini-grant from LiveWell allowed

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2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

the city to create the new educational materials for the campaign, which also includes a biking safety poster encouraging riders to stay on the right side of the road, ride single file, use hand signals and not ride on downtown sidewalks.

Beall adds that friendly reminders for motorists include checking for pedestrians when making left-hand turns and being more aware of cyclists on the road.

STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

Adaptive Cycling Senior cycling Senior citizens in Steamboat Springs have a leg up on other communities when it comes to cycling.

Proving that riding in the Yampa Valley isn’t just for youngsters, Steamboat's Over The Hill Gang — a group of enthusiastic cyclists who enjoy socializing and sharing outdoor activities with one another — is hitting the ground riding, with pedaling programs for seniors of all walks.

The group leads trips throughout the summer for active seniors, including road bike loops, easy mountain biking trips, dirt road riding and even a Mellow-Plus category for any type of bike. This summer, the group has five scheduled OTHG biking trips going out each week.

“Biking is the perfect fit for summer here,” member Terye Rhoden says. “Whatever kind of biking you do, we have a group that will suit your style.”

Membership is open to anyone 50 years and older, and you don’t have to reside in Steamboat, or even Colorado, to participate.

Info: 970-871-7937, www.ssoverthehillgang.org

Courtesy of STARS

The stars have aligned for people with disabilities to cycle in Steamboat.

The reason: Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports, or STARS, a locally based program dedicated to providing recreational opportunities for people with disabilities to empower them and enrich their quality of life.

Among its many summer programs, STARS offers programming that includes hand cycling and mountain biking. A chapter of Disabled Sports USA and a U.S. Paralympic Sportclub, it also rents kid and adult hand cycles and three-wheel, foot-pedal adaptive bikes.

“The Yampa River trail is a fabulous spot for adaptive cycling,” STARS Executive Director Julie Taulman says. “Biking is an inclusive activity that people can do with friends and family, and our biking programs enable people with disabilities to get out there and get active. It’s great that people here are starting to embrace the concept and recognize the importance of it.”

STARS’ Summer Adventure Camp, held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the summer, offers biking as well as other activities, as does its Camp Achieve and Rising STARS Camp. It also offers its popular Sunday Stroll Bike Rides from 5 to 7 p.m. throughout the summer riding season that family and friends can participate in, with different rides set up each week.

Info: 970-871-5371, www.steamboatstars.com

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Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club Cycling rolling strong

High school mountain bike team enters 2nd season

The elite-level high school mountain bike team is now in its second season, thanks to coaching and support from SSWSC Cycling, a division of the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club.

While the club offers numerous programs aimed at providing athletes of various ages the opportunity to develop their cycling skills and enjoy it as a lifelong sport, its high school racing program is skyrocketing.

“We had a fantastic first season,” says club director Blair Seymour, adding that the Division 2 team finished second overall. “We’re looking forward to growing the program and recruiting more riders, especially girls. It’s an amazing

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environment.”

Leading the charge for last year’s team were freshmen Jett Seymour, who finished first overall, and Evan Barbier, who took fifth; sophomores Koby Vargas, who finished second, and Simon Zink, who took eighth; and junior varsity riders Tanner Visnick, Andreas Foulk, Dylan Wallace and Lesley Myller.

“From gravity riders looking to rip downhills and elite high school athletes taking competitive cycling to the next level to elementary school children looking to trail or road ride with friends, the program offers something for everyone,” Seymour adds. “Our cycling program has grown so large over the last few years that

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we truly have a little something for everyone.”

Among the club’s offering are BMX and Gravity programs; a six-event road training race series called Steel Club; two-day mountain bike clinics for adults and kids; a Devo team for middle school racers; and a volunteer-based youth program teaching fundamentals. The program’s high school-aged elite team is coached by past CU cycling team member and current cross-country, super-D and cyclocross national competitor Dr. Jon Freckleton as well as Town Challenge expert racer Scott Myller.

“The depth and experience of our coaching staff is tremendous,” Seymour adds.

Info: www.sswsc.org

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Routt County Riders An IMBA chapter

Routt County Riders, a chapter of the International Mountain Bicycling Association, began in the early 1990s as a group of local mountain bikers interested in building and maintaining trails in Steamboat Springs. It has since grown to promote road cyclists’ interests and support programs for youth and community cycling initiatives, events and more.

Today, RCR is a vibrant, volunteer-based, membership-driven nonprofit governed by a nine-member board and has various committees supporting its mission. It continues to embrace all aspects of cycling and partners with such governmental agencies as the Colorado Department of Transportation, U.S. Forest

Service, BLM and city in promoting and enhancing cycling around Steamboat Springs. It was instrumental in developing and promoting the town’s recently adopted trails proposal now funded by the lodging tax, which earmarks $5.1 million throughout the next 10 years to improve area trails.

“Last year was a great year, and we’re looking forward to even bigger accomplishments this year,” says RCR Vice President Eric Meyer, whose group last year completed more than 1,000 hours of work on local trails. “The momentum Steamboat has garnered lately is truly amazing, with much more on the way.”

Info: www.routtcountyriders.org

RCR is actively involved in the following areas: Leading…

• Cycling advocacy and education • Trail maintenance • Trail construction • Road cycling amenity improvements such as roadside

Aryeh Copa

restrooms

RCR Gets new trail-building machine Local nonprofit Routt County Riders is cranking away at making singletrack trail building easier, more efficient and more cost effective. This spring, thanks to a fundraising match by Yampa Valley Bank, RCR made a deposit on a $100,000 Single Track 240, a one-of-a-kind trail dozer that will better trail building by leaps and bounds. “The machine should be ready to to use by this summer,” says RCR Vice President Eric Meyer, adding that the new piece of equipment should produce immediate results in the community.

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Able to blaze trails 24 to 36 inches wide without disturbing the surrounding area, the ST240 is also remote-control capable from 150 feet away, allowing trail builders to take it deeper into the country. “Ideally, it will make any trails we’re building go much quicker and less expensively,” says local trail builder and RCR member Aryeh Copa. “It will require less labor and follow-up, and make the finish work easier. We’re super excited — it will really get the job done.”

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Supporting…

• Grant writing for trail projects • Bike Week festivities • Annual SSWSC Bike Swap • Steamboat Commuter Challenge • Tour de Steamboat benefit ride • Bicycle Friendly Community Initiative • Safe Routes to School program • Multi-modal advisory group • Share the Road campaigns • Uniform trail signage project • Uniform trail mapping project • Trail user counting project Info: www.routtcountyriders.org

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Ride Guide Table of contents

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Aryeh Copa

Using this Guide ............................. 34 SAFETY........................................ 35 Riding with Animals ...................... 35 Using the Bus .............................. 35 Riding Right ................................ 35 Road Safety ................................ 35 Bike Tips .................................... 35 FAMILY RIDING ........................... 36 Municipal Map............................ 36 Historic Tour Rides ....................... 38 State Parks ..................................40 Lil’ Rippers ..................................41 Family Rides ................................ 42 TOWN/MOUNTAIN ................... 43 Howelsen/Emerald Mountain ......... 43 Emerald Mountain Map ................ 44 Beall/Ridge Trails ......................... 46 Rotary Trail ................................. 47 Steamboat Bike Park..................... 48 Ski Area..................................... 49 Skyline Trail................................. 50 Spring Creek Trail ..........................51 Hot Springs Trail .......................... 52 Lower Bear ................................. 53 NORTH ROUTT ........................... 54 Seedhouse .................................. 54 Big Red Park ............................... 55 Nipple Peak ................................ 56 Grizzly-Helena..............................57 SOUTH ROUTT/RABBIT EARS..... 58 Harrison Creek............................. 58 Divide Trail ................................. 59 Lynx Pass....................................60 ROAD/MIXED-SURFACE RIDES ... 61 Road Map .................................. 62 BMX ............................................ 63 2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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Using this Guide Distance The length of the highlighted trail.

Elevation The lowest and highest points of the highlighted ride.

Rating Based on the Trail Difficulty Rating System published by the International Mountain Bicycling Association. This system focuses on the trails’ technical challenge, not the physical exertion required to enjoy them. The ratings provide a general idea of the difficulty of each region; our trails are rated relative to one another and not necessarily relative to trails in other towns. All

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backcountry trails may have natural and manmade obstacles such as rocks, logs, stream crossings, ledges and bridges. Easy trails have a firm and stable surface. More difficult trails have some variability in the riding surface and usually include steep terrain changes. Difficult trails have a widely variable surface with significant rough terrain and many obstacles and include long, steep climbs. Consult local bike shops if you are unsure of your riding abilities.

Rating: More Difficult (Ridge)/ Easy (Rotary) Season: Early May to Early November (one of the first trails to open each season due to its low elevation and western aspect) Know before you go: Built by the local Rotary Club, this loop include s wide and smooth trails that wind smoothly through trees and down ridge lines with large berms and dirt rollers that can be pumped or doubled. This loop is designed to be exciting for the expert rider when ridden fast, yet easy for family riding.

Parking: From the library, head west on 13th Street for approximately 7 miles (Twentymile Road/County Road 33).

Turn left on Cow Creek Road (County Road 45) and go one mile. Two parking areas are availab le on the left.

Description: The Rotary Trail is accessed by riding up 0.65 miles and 125 vertical feet of the Ridge Trail. The Rotary trail turns left off of the Ridge Trail and continu es to climb 1.5 miles and 210 vertical feet to the summit. With 400 vertical feet of drop, the next 1.5 miles are the roller coaster. From there, it’s a mile back to the trailhea d on gradual up and down smooth trail that gains 65 vertical feet back to the trailhead.

Rotary Trail

Season General idea of when the ride is free of snow and dry enough to ride without harming trails.

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Aryeh Copa

This guide includes just a sampling of the world-class singletrack riding around Steamboat Springs

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SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

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Bike Safety Road Safety Always practice the following rules of the road for safe riding: • Always wear a helmet.

• Don’t use headphones or cellphones while biking.

• Show respect for everything on the road: drivers, other bikers, pedestrians, parked cars.

• Use correct hand signals to show your movements.

• Don’t stop in the travel lane (only stop on shoulders or off the road).

• Riding at night without a headlight is illegal. Wear bright, reflective clothing.

• Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals, and never ride against traffic.

Bike Tips

• Ride in the right lane, except when passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn or avoiding hazards (ride on paved shoulders and bike lanes when possible).

• Before every ride, check tire pressure and tire surface for cuts and embedded debris.

• Ride no more than two abreast, returning to single-file if impeding the flow of traffic (always ride single-file on curving or narrow roads).

• Check chain regularly for excessive side-to-side play and replace if necessary.

• Never assume motorists see you or that you have the right of way.

• Inspect shifting and braking cables and housing twice a year; replace if necessary.

• Share the road with other users, practicing safety, awareness and respect.

• Be prepared for inclement weather; carry extra clothing and food.

• When stopping, remain visible in both directions to other users, particularly on curves and hills.

• Keep chain clean and lubricated. Lubricate chain with dry lube, or every other week or 400 miles with wet chain lube.

• Wash bike regularly (once a week or every 200 miles) in hot water and dish soap, oil drive train and wipe off excess oil.

• Carry proper repair gear, including pump, spare tube, patch kit and chain tool.

• Check cleats for wear and tighten bolts; replace if worn.

Riding Right Many trails have been closed to riders because of the actions of a rare few. Shortcutting switchbacks, taking off-trail routes and failing to yield to other users harm both the environment and riders’ chances to continue to gain access to trails.

Ride right by following the International

• Ride only on open trails.

• Avoid locking your brakes and skidding down steeps.

• Do not use trails when wet.

• Always control your bicycle.

• Leave no trace (ride or carry through, rather than around, obstacles like mud puddles).

• Always yield to uphill traffic.

Mountain Bicycling Association’s rules of the trail:

Safety with Animals Bicycle enough and you’ll likely encounter cattle and horses, either in a herd or as a single animal. Heed the following rules to ensure your, and the animal’s, safety.

• Approach cattle slowly and quietly. Cattle will move away given the opportunity but become unpredictable when stressed by noises and movement.

• Don’t get between a cow or calf and the herd. Stop and stay still and the animal will go around you to return to the herd. Don’t try to get around it or chase it back to the herd.

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• Move to one side when approaching a cow from behind.

This will cause them to move off the trail (staying behind them causes them to travel faster). Also, ease your speed. If they get far enough ahead, they’ll look for an escape.

• Heed the herd. When encountering a herd, stop, step to one side and stand still until it passes. Don’t hurry the herd’s passing with noises and arm movements. If you come up behind a herd, take the cues from the horseback riders — they might lead you through the herd or ask you to wait.

• Never scare animals (wild or domestic).

Bikes on the bus Taking your bike on the free bus is a great way to get back to your lodging property after a day of riding.

All Steamboat Springs buses are equipped with a bike rack that holds two bikes. Instructions for use are on the rack. If the rack is full, please wait for the next bus.

To load your bike: Have your bike ready as the bus approaches. Wait until the driver sets the parking brake to approach the rack. Pull up on the silver handle to release the rack and pivot it down. Arrows indicate which direction to set the bike in the rack. Place the bike in the rack and pull up on the spring-loaded retainer bar. Slide the retainer bar over the front tire.

To remove your bike: Wait until the driver sets the parking brake. Slide the retainer bar up and over the front tire. Remove the bike from rack. Lift the rack back up until it locks in the stow position.

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Pedal into the past Historic Steamboat bike tour

Want a great way to explore some of Steamboat’s colorful Western history?

Take the town’s historic bike tour, which rolls you by 18 properties representing the town’s fascinating past.

1. Initiated in 1914, Howelsen Hill is the oldest ski area in continuing use west of the Mississippi.

The ski area is home to the Winter Carnival and has been the site for numerous national and world record-breaking ski jumps. (285 Howelsen Parkway) 2. The Yampa Valley Electric Association was formed in 1940 as part of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s nationwide program of rural electrification. The 1956 YVEA building was designed by famed architect Eugene Sternberg as the headquarters for its growing customers. The building boasts the prairie-style roof and distinctive stone façade. (32 10th St.) 3. Designated on the local historic register, Lithia Spring’s milky waters contain a high content of lithium, a mineral used to treat the mood swings of bipolar disorder. The spring’s stone entrance columns were built by H.W. Gossard, who planned to bottle and sell the waters as Miraquelle in the 1930s. (700 Lithia Spring Road) 4. The Steamboat Springs Depot was a necessity for the coming of the passenger service railroad. Built in 1909 by architect Frank Edbrooke, the depot was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Across the street is the town’s namesake Steamboat Spring, once a bubbling geyser quieted forever by the construction of the railroad. Folklore has it that fur trappers heard what they thought was a Steamboat on the river, only to find this spring. (1000 13th St.) 5. Steamboat Springs’ founder, James Crawford, frequented the Iron Spring for its mineral waters and built his cabin close to the spring. His granddaughter Lulita Crawford Pritchett described growing up on Iron Spring lemonade, which the family made by mixing half a lemon with a tablespoon of sugar and then adding Iron Spring water to create a carbonated fizz. (1300 Lincoln Ave.) 38

6. Now home of the Laundry restaurant, the Steamboat Laundry Building constructed in 1910, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. The building needed two additions for the growth of the washing service that served Northwest Colorado until the 1960s. (127 11th St.) 7. Designed by architect Eugene Sternberg, the Hillcrest Apartments were constructed in 1958 and embrace several elements of the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Usonian style as evidenced by the building’s integration with the landscape. The distinctive rooflines also are seen in the YVEA building, the Butterfly Building in Little Toots Park and other residences designed by Sternberg. (302 11th St.) 8. In 1900, the Carver family built the Carver Power Plant next to their house to provide electricity to the local population. The system’s steam was used to heat nearby schools and residences. (124 10th St.)

13. A striking visual element in residential Steamboat Springs, the Seventh Street District, from Pine Street to Laurel Street, is eligible for designation, characterized by craftsman and bungalow-type houses.

14. Constructed in 1910, the Craig House exemplifies the heritage and development of Routt County and is associated with James Lafayette Norvell, considered the county’s first entrepreneur as a developer and cattle buyer. Norvell also is credited with developing parts of Hayden and Craig. The house is an excellent local example of the bungalow style of architecture. (204 Hill St.) 15. The Routt County Courthouse represents the development of Routt County, its government and the establishment of Steamboat as the permanent county seat. A simplified classical revival building with Beaux Arts influences constructed from 1922 to 1923, it was designed by master architect Robert Kenneth Fuller. (522 Lincoln Ave.)

9. Bishop Spalding started St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at the turn of the century. The church building was constructed and consecrated in 1913.

The native sandstone used in the construction came from the Steamboat Town and Quarry Co. on Emerald Mountain. (846 Oak St.)

16. Nominated and listed on the Colorado Register of Historic Properties and the local register, the Rabbit Ears Motel historic sign has been greeting visitors along U.S. Highway 40 since 1953. (201 Lincoln Ave.)

10. The Queen Anne-style building that houses the Tread of Pioneers Museum was built in 1908 by Ernest Campbell. The museum features a ski gallery, a Ute Indian exhibit and an original passenger stage coach from the late 1800s. (800 Oak St.)

17. The 130-acre Legacy Ranch District serves as a gateway to the city and reminds residents and visitors of the significant role that high-country farming and ranching played in the development of Colorado. (35435 U.S. 40)

11. The Routt County National Bank building was erected in 1919 and built by stonemason Carl Howelsen, a Norwegian immigrant renowned for his influence in bringing skiing to Steamboat. The upper floor was designed as a meeting place for the Masonic Lodge. (802 Lincoln Ave.)

18. The Mesa Schoolhouse was built in 1916

by Art Gumprecht, serving grades one through eight until rural school district consolidation was completed in 1959. The schoolhouse was restored

by Historic Routt County in 2000 and gifted to the city for use as a community meeting center.

(33985 U.S. 40)

12. The Christian Science Church was built in 1934 after the Christian Science Society had been meeting in Steamboat for nearly three decades.

Mrs. James Crawford, pioneer mother of the community, was one of its charter members. (639 Oak St.)

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Many thanks to the Steamboat Springs Planning Department and the Steamboat Springs Historic Preservation Commission for providing the information for this section.

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Yampa River Core Trail Historic bike tour destinations

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• Board Certified • Fellowship Trained • US Ski Team Physicians • Committed to the Best Care • On and off road cycling enthusiasts • Servicing Steamboat Springs, Craig and Granby Let us put you back on track

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Cycling State Parks

Steamboat Lake State Park Steamboat Lake State Park offers easy, scenic biking for the whole family, with views of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area. Ride the

Mushroom, Spinach, Manchego Arepa romesco sauce, chive cream Almond-Apricot Pâté Jar smoked chèvre, raisin nut toasts Sashimi Ahi Tuna sushi rice square, avocado,arugula, sesame-ginger vinaigrette, wasabi yogurt Asian BBQ Duck Confit Steamed Buns kimchi slaw House Cured Bison Carpaccio arugula, shaved fennel, truffle pecorino, balsamic drizzle, toast rounds Crab and Tomato Bisque Chef’s Soup of the Day

Pearl Lake State Park

State Parks information Stagecoach, Steamboat Lake and Pearl Lake state parks require a day-use parks pass for $7 or a valid Colorado State Park season pass.

Convenient parking, picnic and restrooms are available at all parks.

Info: 800-678-2267, www.parks.state.co.us

Pearl Lake offers beautifully shaded trails and a great access point to Coulton Creek trail. This easy ride is less than a mile toward the dam, paralleling the lake. Continue on for a more difficult route through the Routt County National Forest. To reach Pearl Lake, drive west on U.S. 40 to C.R. 129. Drive north until just before the Steamboat Lake turnoff and look for the park entrance signs.

Doug Davis

Eight miles of trails await at Stagecoach State Park. Two trails skirt the lake in a scenic, easy-toride dirt track. On the north side is the 2-mile Lakeside trail and on the south shore is the 6-mile Elk Run trail from the inlet to the dam.

Join the two for an 8-mile ride, or complete the loop by riding on Routt County Road 18 before taking a refreshing plunge into the lake.

Stagecoach Lake offers camping, showers and bathroom facilities. From Steamboat Springs, travel four miles south on U.S. Highway 40, then 5 miles south on Colorado Highway 131 to C.R. 14. Drive 7 miles south on Colo. 14 to the park entrance.

Willow Creek trail from the Dutch Hill Marina 3.8 miles to the Sage Flats day-use area. Or try the 1.1-mile Poverty Bar trail, which highlights the area’s gold mining history (access from the visitor center). The park also offers camping, beaches boat rentals and more. From Steamboat, head west of town on U.S. 40 and take a right at the 7-11 on C.R. 129 (Elk River Road). Drive 25 miles north to the park entrance.

Butter Lettuce Wedge Salad pickled onions, bacon, blue cheese, pumpkin seeds, tomato vinaigrette

“Shake and Bake” Colorado Chicken Breast morel-millet-pea porridge, Riesling pan sauce

Three Pea, Asparagus, Frisée Salad goat feta, marcona almonds, tarragon-mint vinaigrette

Colorado Natural Beef Tenderloin twice baked potato poutine, sautéed spinach, smoked onion-horseradish sauce

Carrot, Ricotta Ravioli morels, baby carrots, dill butter, mint-hazelnut pesto

Elk Tenderloin cabernet veal demi glace, spring vegetables with almonds,Yukon Gold mashed potatoes

Market Catch Kate’s teriyaki glaze, black rice-asparagus sauté, coconut coulis (tofu substitute option)

Surf and Turf elk tenderloin with veal demi glace, diver scallops with Chef’s sauce of the day, spring vegetables with almonds, Yukon Gold mashed potatoes

Diver Scallops English pea-fava bean smash, Meyer lemon aioli, Prosciutto crisp

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Lil’ Rippers These Lil’ Ripper rides can be done in 30 to 60 minutes or half-day adventures to fun-filled city parks and playgrounds. The rides are designed for children ages 5 to 9 and beginners and can be viewed online by visiting www.steamboatbiketown.com and clicking on “Riding & Maps” and then “Cruising/Commuting.”

Road, turn right onto sidewalk/bike path and veer right after one block as the sidewalk empties into the Whistler Park entrance, where there’s a playground and restrooms (bring water, picnic and bug spray). For a longer variation, start from the Core Trail downtown.

Rotary Park to Whistler Park

Bear River Skatepark/ Pump track

Starting point: U.S. Highway 40 and Mount Werner Road, Rotary Park parking lot, at southwest corner of U.S. 40/Mount Werner Road exit.

Ride: Head south on the Yampa River Core Trail (toward Rabbit Ears Pass). Continue past the Walton Creek Road intersection and take a left at the split in the trail to cross under U.S. 40 (if flooded, cross at traffic light, turn right and head south on bike path for one-half block, then turn left at intersection with Core Trail). Continue on Core Trail and take right at next intersection to cross bridge. Ride past pond and take left at Stone Lane. Ride about two blocks to Whistler

Starting point: Little Toots Park at 11th and Yampa streets. Parking, food and restrooms can be found in the library. Bike rentals are available across from the park at Orange Peel Bicycles.

Ride: Head past the park toward the library, continue past the library (use underpass unless flooded). Follow Core Trail to bridge, turn left and cross Yampa River. Turn right and continue on Core Trail. Across the second bridge, the Steamboat Springs Community Center offers a park and playground (with restrooms). Continue to intersection at Shield Drive, stay on Core Trail and follow signage to Bear

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River Skatepark. The pump track is on the far side of skatepark, complete with beginner lines and berms.

(Fun game: Time riders around the beginner loop for personal record bragging rights.)

Ski Time Square pump track Starting point: Ski Time Square.

Ride: The pump track is at the upper end of Ski Time Square Road on the left side. This is good ride if you plan to include other activities at the ski area base. The track is smaller and great for young kids.

Ride from the pump track down the access road next to Torian Condos to Slopeside Grill restaurant for food, beverages and restrooms. Continue down the promenade to Gondola Square for a kids activity center, more restaurants and restrooms. You can ride to Ski Time Square from the Core Trail intersection of Mount Werner Road/U.S. 40 exit, but this is only recommended for older children with more stamina because the hill is long and challenging for young riders.

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Other Family Rides A block off Lincoln Avenue is Steamboat’s true summer Main Street: the Yampa River Core Trail, a 7-mile, multiuse pathway that parallels the Yampa River from Walton Creek Road on the east end of town to the James Brown Soul Center of the Universe Bridge on the west. Hit it on foot, bike or skateboard for a fun-filled excursion for the whole family. It’s also the best ride for cruiser bikes in town. Abundant parking is available at Rotary Park at 13th Street and the Yampa River. Hint: Ring your bell when passing pedestrians.

Rotary Trail The recently completed Rotary Trail on the backside of Emerald Mountain is well worth the short drive. Featuring easy climbs, smooth banks and a wide and smooth, user-friendly trail, the 4-mile loop is accessed by riding 0.65 mile and 125 vertical feet of the Ridge Trail. From there, it climbs 1.5 miles and 210 vertical feet to the

summit before another 1.5 miles of roller-coaster fun followed by a mile ride back to the trailhead.

To get there, cross the river at the library and head west on 13th Street (Twentymile Road, Routt County Road 33) for about 7 miles. Turn left on Cow Creek Road (C.R. 45) and go one mile.

Two parking areas are available on the left.

Joel Reichenberger

Yampa Valley Core Trail

Spring Creek Trail This gem of a downtown ride follows a dirt road for ½ mile up to two ponds perfect for fishing before continuing on as a creekside two-track for another 2 miles. From there, you can continue up the singletrack of Spring Creek Trail proper for as long as your troopers’ legs last or return the way you came with a leisurely stop at the ponds. To get there, take Fish Creek Falls Road up the hill and take a left on Amethyst Drive. The parking area is a dirt road to your right across from the high school.

To bike there, take the new bike underpass leading north from the upper parking lot of the Old Town Hot Springs; it’ll take you right there.

Ski Haus has the bikes, selection, and service to make every ride fun!

Steamboat’s Largest Fleet of Rental Bikes. Mountain, Road, Comfort, Cruisers, Kids & Trailers.

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Howelsen & emerald Mountain Park

Trailheads and Parking Three main trailheads serve the numerous riding options on Emerald Mountain.

Parking is available at the rodeo stables, at Howelsen Lodge and at Blackmer Drive. There are public restrooms at Howelsen Lodge, but not at the Blackmer Trailhead. Parking gets tight during Triple Crown baseball and softball events, which occur throughout the summer, so do like the locals do and ride from your accommodations as a nice warm-up.

Rodeo stables trailhead: For a local favorite, try the twisty Lupine Trail, which is accessed via the Bluffs Loop. The trailhead is located next to the stables and restrooms behind the rodeo grounds.

Mile run trailhead: A ski run during the winter season, this wide trail provides a moderate

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grade to access the higher riding options. The trailhead sign is located by the winter tubing building between the white pavilion and northernmost baseball field at the base of Howelsen Hill. Veer right along the base of the Nordic ski jumps. The trail winds northwest and then cuts behind Howelsen Hill.

Blackmer Trailhead: Blackmer, which doubles as an emergency access road, provides the most forgiving riding option to the Quarry overlook (but you’ll still learn to count the three major switchbacks). Head down the bike path or Lincoln Avenue and take a left at 13th Street at the Bud Werner Memorial Library. Follow 13th over the bridge and take your first left on Gilpin Street (or look for a shortcut singletrack heading up to your left). Then take a left onto Saratoga Avenue and a final quick right onto Routt Street, which ends at a parking area and the trailhead.

Loops Bluffs Loop: Short climb to big views of the Yampa Valley.

Access the trail at the rodeo stables trailhead.

Climb a short pitch on the bluffs trail and then take a board gentle loop through sage covered hillsides with views of town, the Yampa River and Steamboat Ski Area.

Quarry Loop: A moderate climb to the Quarry overlook through aspen groves with a twisty, fun descent.

Access the trailhead at the Rodeo Stables then ride up the Bluffs Loops-Howelsen Meadows-Ricky’s Ridge-Lupine-Emerald Meadows-Larry’s-Prayer Flag Road-Angry Grouse-Blair Witch. Stop and enjoy the views of Mount Werner and town at the Quarry overlook then head down little Moab-LupineBluffs Loop.

Stinger Loop: Sting or bee stung. Follow the famed Honey Stinger race route for 25 miles of Emerald glory.

Start at Howelsen base (Olympian Hall), ride past Nordic jumps to Robbie’s cut detour, to upper Robbie’s cut, go straight across mile

run to Blackmer, turn left and up Blackmer to Orton meadow, take a right and go through the meadow to MGM, up MGM to Prayer Flag Road, right on Angry Grouse, up Angry Grouse to Blair Witch, right on Blair Witch to Prayer Flag Road, up Prayer Flag Road to Abby’s, right on Abby’s and veer left up to Stairway to Heaven, right on Ridge Road to Ridge/Beall trailhead, go right down Ridge Trail, Ridge Trail to left on Cow Creek Road, up Cow Creek Road, to Beall trailhead, left and up Beall Trail to Ridge/ Beall trailhead, right on Ridge Road to Root Canal, Root Canal to Quarry Mountain Trail, Quarry Mountain Trail to Little Moab, down Little Moab and right onto Lupine Trail, down Lupine to second Blackmer access point, left on Blackmer, up Blackmer and right on Prayer Flag Road, Prayer Flag to Larry's Trail, Larry's Trail to Blackmer Drive, cross Blackmer to lower Lupine Trail, Lupine to Ricky's Ridge, Ricky's Ridge to a right at Howelsen Meadows, Howelsen Meadows to Bluffs Loop, Bluffs loop to right turn on Bluffs overlook trail, Bluffs overlook around back to lower Bluffs Loop staying low and right, out to rodeo grounds back into finish.

2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

Aryeh Copa

Across the valley from Mount Werner lies the town’s mountain biking jewel, Emerald Mountain.

Accessible from the heart of downtown via the Yampa River Core Trail, Emerald offers a range of rides with more than 4,000 acres of public land and miles of connected singletrack. Known for tacky singletrack through wildflower-filled meadows and groves of aspen, shrub oak and pine, this is our local gem. For longer rides, you can also tie in a loop on the Ridge and Beall trails off the backside of Emerald. This year, also check out the new No More Blues Trail spur bypassing Stairway to Heaven.

Season: Late May through October Trail rating: More difficult (fair amount of climbing) Total mileage: Depends on your route.

Lupine-Blair Witch-Quarry Mountain-Root Canal, Stairway to Heaven-MGM clocks in at 9.8 miles.

Know before you go: The trails can get crowded during lunch and after work, so ride with respect for other users, including those on horseback and hikers. A bell can come in handy.

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Beall & Ridge Trails Ridge Trail

Total mileage: 6.63 miles Know before you go: One of the newest additions on Emerald Mountain, the Beall Trail recognizes the efforts of Ben Beall, the 13-year chairman of the Emerald Mountain Partnership who was instrumental in negotiating the land exchange between the State Land Board and the BLM in 2007. The negotiations yielded the largest land swap in Colorado history, adding 4,193 acres of public land called the Special Recreation Area on Emerald Mountain.

Parking/trailheads: You can access the Beall Trail from two places — the top of Emerald Mountain or via Routt County Road 45, also known as Cow Creek Road. From downtown head north to 13th Street. Follow 13th as it becomes C.R. 33, or Twentymile Road. Take a left off the pavement onto C.R. 45 at the bottom of the hill. C.R. 45 is dirt, but it is well maintained. The first parking area you will pass accesses the Ridge and Rotary trails. Just a short drive past this trailhead you will see parking for the Beall Trail.

Description: The most popular option is to link the Beall Trail as part of a larger loop ride. The easiest option is the Emerald backside loop. Most riders choose to park at the Beall trailhead, ride up Beall and then descend the Ridge Trail. At the Ridge Trail, it is only a short ride up Cow Creek Road to your car.

For the most difficult option, ride the Stinger Loop, which will have beginners at the base of Howelsen Hill climbing to the top of Emerald Mountain, then descending the Ridge Trail, climbing up the Beall Trail and then descending back down the frontside of Emerald.

The Beall Trail offers views of Rabbit Ears Pass, the Flat Tops Wilderness Area and surrounding ranch land. You’ll meander through open meadows, pine forests, aspen groves and the beautiful Gambel oak forest that is so prevalent on Emerald Mountain. The trail is non-technical singletrack with a gentle grade.

Total mileage: 5 miles Know before you go: The Ridge Trail is another recent addition to the amazing network of trails on Emerald Mountain. Located on the backside of Emerald, it offers stunning views and smooth, tacky riding, with the options to link longer rides, via either the Rotary Trail toward the bottom, or Beall Trail.

Parking: Parking is available at Howelsen Lodge, or on Cow Creek (Routt County Road 45) Description: To get to the trailhead at Cow Creek, head out C.R. 33 Twentymile Road and turn left on Cow Creek (C.R. 45). You’ll find the trailhead about a mile down on your left.

From the Emerald/downtown side, you have the option of riding up a number of trails to the summit of Emerald Mountain. At the top, follow the two-track along the ridge. To access the trailhead, continue down and to the left just before the closure gate.

Note: Both the Ridge and Beall trails can be linked together from their respective trailheads on Cow Creek Road for a 13-mile loop, 11.5 of which

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are on great singletrack. For the easiest climbing, head up Beall and down Ridge. You can also add in the Rotary Trail for an additional loop.

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Beall Trail

Emerald Backside

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Rotary Trail

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Rating: More difficult (Ridge)/easy (Rotary) Season: Early May to early November (one of the first trails to open each season due to its low elevation and western aspect) Know before you go: Built by the local Rotary Club, this loop includes wide and smooth trails that wind smoothly through trees and down ridge lines with large berms and dirt rollers that can be pumped or doubled. This loop is designed to be exciting for the expert rider when ridden fast, yet easy for family riding.

Parking: From the library, head west on 13th Street for approximately 7 miles (Twentymile Road/Routt County Road 33). Turn left on Cow Creek Road (C.R. 45) and go 1 mile. Two parking areas are available on the left.

Description: The Rotary Trail is accessed by riding up 0.65 miles and 125 vertical feet of the Ridge Trail. The Rotary Trail turns left off of the Ridge Trail and continues to climb 1.5 miles and 210 vertical feet to the summit. With 400 vertical feet of drop, the next 1.5 miles are the roller coaster. From there, it’s a mile back to the trailhead on gradual up and down smooth trail that gains 65 vertical feet back to the trailhead.

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Steamboat residents will tell you that winter is what brought them to the Yampa Valley, but summer is what keeps them here. When the Champagne Powder® snow melts at Ski Town USA®, another world is revealed involving wheels instead of skis.

A new era was unveiled last fall with the Steamboat Bike Park, in partnership with award-winning bike trail developer Gravity Logic. Trails feature step-down rollers, wooden berm/wall rides, large dirt berms, a 1--foot wooden ladder step-down, rollers, rock drops, sharp turns, table-top dirt jumps in rapid succession and more. For those learning to ride, the green trails feature dirt berms, banked turns and wooden slat and ladder bridges.

This summer, the freeride momentum continues as Steamboat unveils its new top-to-bottom Tenderfoot trail and puts the finishing touches on its second jump trail. Efforts also continue on the reroute of the popular

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Zig Zag trail. Twilight Bike Park access expands offering evening riding Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights from 4 to 7pm. In addition, the downhill action heats up with a new Wednesday evening DH series, taking place every other week. The resort’s trails open as conditions permit (please stay off closed trails) and a dedicated bike patrol is available with any needs you might have.

The action is hot off the hill as well, with the FREE Steamboat Mountain Music Series, FREE Coca-Cola Movies on the Mountain, Sunset Happy Hour, Korbel Sunday Brunch, Coca-Cola Adventure Zone and more.

Unique bicycling events round out the summer, including Bike Week, Ride the Rockies, Enduro-X races and the International Mountain Bicycling Association World Summit. Discover Steamboat-Ski Town USA’s other sizzling season.

Info: bike.steamboat.com, 800-922-2722

2014 STEAMBOAT SPRINGS BIKE GUIDE

Aryeh Copa

Steamboat Bike Park

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(Refer to map on page 4)

Steamboat Bike Park Trails (downhill only) Name

Distance

Use

Description

Buckin’ Bronc

0.3 mile

DH biking only

Steamboat’s first “expert” trail with big banked turns, a wooden bridge drop and finally a challenging and exciting jump line.

Rawhide

2.4 miles

DH biking only

A steep, narrow and flowing trail marked by rollable rock drops and very sharp turns.

Rawhide Connector

0.03 mile

DH biking only

Flying Diamond

0.27 mile

DH biking only

Bull Rider

0.32 mile

DH biking only

Rustler Ridge

4.03 miles

DH biking only

A downhill bike trail that is a bit more challenging than Tenderfoot with banked turns and rolling terrain. Runs from Christie Peak to Base Area.

Rustler Ridge Connector

0.03 mile

DH biking only

A flowing trail that avoids the intensity of Valley View.

Tenderfoot

4.12 miles

DH biking only

A beginner trail that starts at the top of the Gondola and accesses Wrangler Gulch at the bottom of the Thunderhead chairlift with beautiful views across a variety of mountain settings.

E-Z Rider

0.86 mile

DH biking only

Finish off your decent down the mountain with a beginner trail that flows gracefully through a series of s turns showcasing an overview of Steamboat’s base area.

Wrangler Gulch

0.71 mile

DH biking only

A beginner downhill bike experience that meanders through aspen trees and scrub oak getting you back down the lower part of the mountain.

Multi-use Trails (two-way hiking, biking and horseback riding) Creekside

1.58 miles

Multi-use

Singletrack including very steep sections and several creek crossings. Trail ends at Burgess Creek Road. Proceed uphill on BC Road to access Zig Zag and the ski resort.

Creekside Loop

TBD

Multi-use

Dirt service road that allows access for non-bike park riders to access Creekside trail.

Moonlight

0.8 mile

Multi-use

Singletrack with numerous switchbacks and 12” tread width in areas

Mountain View USFS Trail 1032

TBD

Multi-use

Singletrack trail that leaves ski area boundary, connecting to U.S. Forest Service’s Continental Divide Trail 1032 with access to/from Rabbit Ears and/or Buffalo Pass.

Pete’s Wicked Trail

2.91 miles

Multi-use

Challenging trail with steep terrain, sharp switchbacks and rugged trail conditions.

Spur Run

1.01 miles

Multi-use

Dirt service road, most direct route to Valley View (average grade 4.86 percent).

Storm Peak Challenge

2.22 miles

Multi-use

Extremely challenging ride to top of Continental Divide including steep terrain, sharp switchbacks and rugged trail conditions mostly on dirt two-track road.

Valley View

3.26 miles

Multi-use

Primarily singletrack to ski area base including cross-country style, rolling terrain, switchbacks and uphill/downhill sections.

Cathy’s Cutoff

0.54 mile

Multi-use

Singletrack, connecting Pete’s and Sunshine.

Elkhead Loop

1.05 miles

Multi-use

Start/finish at top of gondola, varied singletrack/service road.

Sunshine Trail

2.02 miles

Multi-use

Challenging, more difficult singletrack through Sunshine Bowl.

Yoo Hoo

0.8 mile

Multi-use

Combination of single and double track with challenging downhill section (average grade 4.46 percent, maximum grade 13.77 percent).

Zig Zag

3.0 miles

Multi-use

Single and double track from the bottom of Thunderhead Lift to the base area.

Duster

1.2 miles

Multi-use

Service road with beautiful views of the Yampa Valley (average grade 3.15 percent).

Why Not

3.0 miles

Uphill

Service road that goes from bottom of Thunderhead chairlift to the top of the gondola with switchbacks.

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Skyline Trail Rating: Easy Season: Early June to October Know before you go: This is a short loop that dries out quickly in the spring. This area also is populated by moose.

Parking: Take the Mount Werner exit from U.S. Highway 40 just south of downtown, heading east toward the ski area. Turn left at Steamboat Boulevard and follow it past the golf course into The Sanctuary neighborhood. The water treatment plant will be on your right, just after you cross Fish Creek. There is a good parking lot with a map of the trail posted there.

Description: The trail goes along the new fence line behind the parking lot and joins up to the singletrack on the left. Then it switchbacks for a bit until you enter the aspen trees. You do a small circular trail through the aspens and onto the ridgeline heading back toward Steamboat Boulevard.

Continue to a couple more switchbacks down the hill and onto Steamboat Boulevard. Ride the road a couple minutes and you’re back at the water treatment plant.

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Spring Creek Trail

Rating: More difficult Season: Mid-May to mid-October Know before you go: This trail weaves back and forth over Spring Creek and through aspen forests with about a dozen bridge crossings. It can be done as an up and back down, or a loop if Buffalo Pass Road (Routt County Road 38) is ridden.

Parking: From downtown Steamboat Springs, travel north on Third Street and turn right at stop sign onto Pine Street, which will turn into East Maple Street. Pass the Steamboat Springs High School on the right and follow road to the end where it intersects with Amethyst Drive. At this stop sign the parking lot for the trail is directly across the street. This is Routt County Road 34. If driving, park car here.

Description: Begin pedaling up the dirt road (keep an eye out for cars, stay to the right). The road will turn to a doubletrack in about 0.5 miles.

Follow this doubletrack up above Spring Creek Park (featuring two reservoir ponds and gazebo).

The first bridge crossing will be in about 1/2 mile.

Stay on this doubletrack for another mile until the trailhead sign. At the sign, climb up a short steep hill to the left and take the immediate right. This is the beginning of the singletrack and the official beginning of the Spring Creek Trail.

From here on, there are no other trails off the wide singletrack. The trail will cross back and forth over the creek until reaching the summit at Dry Lake, approximately 5 miles later. The terrain is mostly hard-packed dirt but does have sections of rocks, roots and ruts. It is a continuous climb with many short steep pitches. The trail is not very technical in nature, but the climbs require physical fitness. There is a total elevation gain of 1,200 feet.

Upon reaching the top, turn around and enjoy the beautiful ride back down. Be careful, this trail is one of the most popular in Steamboat, so encounters with other riders, hikers, dog walkers and equestrians are inevitable.

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Hot Springs Area Ratings: More difficult (Mad Creek)/very difficult (Red Dirt) Season: Early May through October Know before you go: With southern exposure and quickly draining granitic soils, the hot springs area trails dry out early and offer the longest riding season of all the trails in town. Mad Creek is popular with hikers and their dogs. Please ride carefully and remember to yield the trail to hikers.

Also be aware of horse use in this area during the early riding and hunting seasons. Please yield the trail to horses. The Red Dirt Trail has some north facing slopes and does not melt out as early as the rest of the trail system. Do not ride into the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, or you could be ticketed.

Parking: Ample parking is available about 5 miles up Routt County Road 129 at the Mad Creek trailhead, and another half-mile beyond at the Red Dirt trailhead (you can also ride C.R. 129 directly to each trailhead). The other option is to ride the Strawberry Park Hot Springs Road, C.R. 36, to the Hot Springs Trail. Ride this trail down to C.R. 129 and then turn right and go 0.25 miles to the trailhead.

The long locals’ ride starts in town, rides out Strawberry Park Road to the Strawberry Park Hot Springs, down the Hot Springs Trail, up Mad Creek, down Red Dirt, then back up Hot Springs (for a post-ride soak) and finally back into town.

Aryeh Copa

doubletrack and loop back to either the Hot Springs Trail or the Mad Creek trailhead parking lot. No matter your route, you’ll likely see birds of prey, deer or elk, fox and other wildlife. You’ll also encounter other trail users, so ride under control.

Highlighted Trail

Mad Creek/Red Dirt Loop: This loop climbs from the Mad Creek parking area up to the historic barn. Look for the Swamp Park Trailhead sign on your left. Climb through aspen and lodgepole forests before descending the steep and technical Red Dirt trail. A short spin along the road returns riders to the trailhead.

These trails all link up essentially at the top of the Mad Creek trail, and offer a little something for everyone. From here, riders can follow the meandering trail by the historic barn and bordering a gorgeous Alpine meadow to the Mount Zirkel Wilderness boundary, over to the Red Dirt Trail (see above), or across Mad Creek onto

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Rating: Intermediate Season: Early June to October Know before you go: This trail is a beauty, and one of the first in the Steamboat area to dry out each spring due to its southern exposure. It can also be linked in with several other trails in the area, including Hot Springs, for a great half-road/ half-trail loop from town. As an out-and-back from Lower Bear trailhead to the summit overlook, expect roughly 4 miles of pedaling with an elevation rise of 1,353 feet.

Parking: The trail starts on the right about a half-mile before you reach Strawberry Park Hot Springs on Routt County Road 36 (Hot Springs Road). Park at the pull-out for the Lower Bear Trail on the right and look for the singletrack trail heading north from its far end.

Description: Break out your energy bar. This Forest Service trail starts out with a bang, without much warm-up. Beginning at an elevation of

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roughly 7,600 feet, the trail heads north at first, before turning east and climbing the scrub oakfilled hillside with a series of switchbacks. After 1.6 miles, or about half an hour, you’ll reach the old two-track trail, which is even steeper. Turn left and climb another 0.4 miles (2 miles from trailhead) to the overlook at the top of a saddle and a commanding vista of the Yampa Valley. From there, the trail rolls northeast before contouring across a rocky outcrop and descending to its junction with 4WD Elk Park Road at mile 2.9. Turn left and continue on to such clandestine classics as MRP (which takes you into Mad Creek) or stay on it to its end at a meadow called Elk Park. Turn right on the road and you can descend all the way back to Strawberry Park Road at mile 4.8, where a right turn and short road climb takes you back to your car. You can also head back the way you came on Lower Bear, whose smooth, buff trail is pure butter to descend.

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Joel Reichenberger

Lower Bear

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Seedhouse Area Trails

Ratings: Very difficult Season: Late June to September Know before you go: All the trails in this area are shared with equestrians, hikers and motorcyclists, so ride with respect. Also, hunters use this area in the fall, so wear bright colors.

The Forest Service is continuing to close areas for tree clearing — read all closure information and contact the Forest Service Hotline for information.

Also, please report any new downfall.

Parking: The Seedhouse area offers ample parking in three locations: The Hinman Lake trailhead, the north entrance to the South Fork trailhead and the south entrance to the South Fork trailhead.

Description: South Fork/Scott’s Run. This approximately 20-mile moderately technical loop offers a great aerobic workout and spectacular views of the South Fork of the Elk River, the Zirkels and the 2002 Hinman burn area (notice the regeneration). The suggested ride is counterclockwise and prepare for creek crossings.

The Seedhouse area network of trails offers riders of all abilities the opportunity to ride pristine trails and see a wide variety of wildlife, beautiful flowers and the rugged Zirkel range.

The trails, located approximately 30 miles north of Steamboat Springs, traverse aspen and lodgepole forests, and pass by meandering creeks and streams and glimmering lakes. In the summer, they allow riders to escape the heat of Steamboat and ride through shady stands of aspens and lodgepole forests connecting to brilliant meadows of columbines. The singletracks are narrow and smooth with few technical interruptions, making for fast and furious fun in the saddle.

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Big Red Park:

Manzanares Loop Ratings: Very difficult Season: July 1 to mid-October (officially closes Dec. 1) Know before you go: This area has challenging hilly, rocky sections and steep grades. Loose rock portions may require dismounting. Be aware of jeep, motorcycle, and ATV traffic at all times, as you will be sharing the trail. Be prepared to deal with fallen trees, especially in the early summer before winter timber fall has been cleared.

Parking: Take Routt County Road 129 past Steamboat Lake and Hahn’s Peak Lake. Just past Columbine, turn right on FSR 550. Proceed north 4 miles and turn right on FSR 500. After 2 miles, turn right onto FSR 402, which becomes rough and wet with deep holes (4WD recommended).

The Farewell Mountain trailhead (#1203) is 1 mile up the road.

Description: Take Farewell Mountain Trail #1203 southeast about 5 miles to NFSR 409, then follow the road about 3 miles to Wyoming Trail #1101. Take Trail #1101 north about 13 miles to Manzanares Trail #1204. Follow the trail west about 5 miles back to the trailhead #1203.

This route is through pine forests and alpine meadows. The intersection of the Wyoming and Manzanares trails offers views at the top of the

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Continental Divide. Don’t enter the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area, which only allows travel by foot and horseback.

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Rating: Very difficult Season: Late June to early October Know before you go: This approximately 20-mile, technical, North Routt loop is a favorite bike ride, but is also shared by four-wheelers, ATVs and motorcycles. It’s best ridden counterclockwise.

The ride is gorgeous during the fall colors.

Parking: From Steamboat Springs, turn north at the old 7-11, and follow Elk River Road (Routt County Road 129) past Columbine to Forest

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Service Road 47, on the left just past the Summit Creek Guard Station. Park off FSR 47.

Description: Follow FSR 47 clockwise, west. It turns into Trail #1147. This trail winds through aspen groves and spruce, down to Lopez Creek and then connects with Trail #1156. Turn left, staying on Trail #1156 back over the divide and down Willow Creek. This area can be wet early summer. Stay on trail #1156 across FSR Road 487 to FSR Road 488. Turn right on FSR road 488 and travel to the junction with C.R. 129. You can stay on the trail back to 129, but at this point some smoother riding is welcome. Turn left on C.R. 129 and return to the starting point.

Other trails can be accessed from the Nipple Peak loop. See map and consult local bike shops for more information.

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Courtesy of Summit Post

Nipple Peak & Lopez Creek Loop

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Grizzly-Helena boundary. Riders north can either use the Brown Creek Road (FSR 650, a rough 4WD road that parallels the boundary and connects with the trail after about 3 miles) or the trail itself, accessed 1.5 miles farther west at the Lone Pine North trailhead.

Northern terminus (Helena Trailhead): From Colorado State Highway 125 at Cowdrey, go west on Jackson County Road 6W 18 miles to the community of Pearl. Turn west on FR 600, following FSR 600 again by turning south toward Big Creek Lakes, then turn south across the Big Creek Lakes outlet to take FSR 660 south to the Helena trailhead.

Description: The entire trail may be ridden using car shuttles between the Grizzly trailhead and the Helena trailhead south of Big Creek Lakes. Shorter out-and-back rides or alternate access are also available from the Rainbow Lakes, Pitchpine and Red Canyon trailheads, all accessible by turnoffs from C.R. 12W west of Walden. C.R. 5 and C.R. 7 run north-south and provide connections between the interior trailheads for all-gravel shuttle routes. Be prepared for loose trail, abrupt ups and downs and creek crossings in many areas. From the southern trailhead, pay attention after about 0.72 miles, at the intersection with the Agua Fria trail. This trail leads up a difficult but rewarding climb to a beautiful lake, but you will need to stay right (east) to remain on the Grizzly-Helena Trail.

Tom Ross

Rating: Very difficult Season: Late June to mid-October Know before you go: This ride is only for the adventurous and is very challenging, but the reward is an intimate overview of the Park Range, with many creek crossings and views of the drainages feeding North Park from the Divide. The trail is open to OHVs, so singletrack and twotrack sections require being alert of other users.

Some sections require portage and orientation skills. High water and vast beaver ponds suggest better riding in mid- to late summer. The trail is as rewarding as it is challenging.

Parking: There are three main access points to this trail.

Southern terminus (Grizzly trailhead): Access FSR 60 either by climbing Buffalo Pass Road to Summit Lake and continuing to the east side, or from Colorado Highway 14 by taking Jackson County Road 24 west to the National Forest boundary. Turn north on FSR 615 and go past Teal and Tiago lakes to the trailhead at road’s end.

Trail midpoint (Lone Pine Trailhead): This trailhead allows access to the trail north or south at approximately 15 miles from each terminus. From Colo. Highway 14 at Walden, go west on C.R. 12W for approximately 18 miles, turn south on C.R. 16 to the Forest Boundary.

Riders south will find the Lone Pine South trailhead approximately 1 mile west of the

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Harrison Creek/ Routt Divide Trail No. 1108

Rating: Very difficult Season: Mid-July to early September Know before you go: Bring rain gear, food and water (the starting elevation is about 9,000 feet, so stay hydrated). The Forest Service is continuing to close areas for tree clearing — read all closure information and contact the Forest Service Hotline for information. The following roads may be closed with no access — Rabbit Ears Pass area: Road 311-Dumont Lake to Base Camp — CDNST, Road 251-Harrison Creek Loop.

Parking: Take U.S. Highway 40 west from Steamboat Springs to the intersection of Dumont/FSR 251. Park on the right at the entrance of FSR 251. There is a sign for Harrison Creek.

Description: Start the ride from the intersection south on FSR 251 at approximately 3 miles. Veer left on to FSR 303, and left again onto FSR 303.1C; the path is easy to follow.

Veer left onto Routt Divide Trail 1108 at trailhead sign. The trail starts with short descents combined with short, tricky and sometimes rocky climbs. Go through the meadow, even if the trail disappears in the grass (it picks up on the other side). Next comes the mandatory hike a bike. It’s steep, rocky and tough, but is mostly downhill. The singletrack will end on Buffalo Park Road, and go left. Now you’re in for a 10-mile moderate dirt road climb back to U.S. 40. From here, it’s half a mile to your car.

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The Divide Trail

Continental Divide, Mountain View, Dumont Lake Rating: More difficult Season: Early July to Mid-October Know before you go: This rolling, scenic trail is a classic Steamboat epic.

It is also the route for the Ride4Yellow event. This trail is referred to by three different names (Wyoming Trail, Divide Trail and Trail 1101). Don’t be confused — they all lead to the same great place. You will need two cars or a driver who will not be riding. Your car will be left at Dumont Lake, and the ride will end back in Steamboat. Also, check with local bike shops for trail conditions. Be aware of early season snow and/or fallen trees.

Parking: From Steamboat, take U.S. Highwat 40 east for 20 miles over Rabbit Ears Pass. Turn left toward Dumont Lake. Pass the campground entrances then turn left toward Base Camp (there is a large boulder in the middle of the road with a plaque on it). Park your car 300 yards up Base Camp Road on the right hand side.

Description: Look for the start of the trail on the opposite side of Base Camp Road. You will quickly come out onto the campground road.

Continue straight on the campground road until you take slight right onto Trail #1101 (Wyoming/Continental Divide Trail). Initially the trail follows an old roadbed along an irrigation ditch. Head left after crossing a small creek and begin your first steep climb. The trail will roll along, cross another creek, and 4 miles from the start, you will come out on Base Camp Road. Turn left on Base Camp Road and climb for about half a mile to Base Camp Trailhead. (Option: You can ride or drive Base Camp Road to this point to avoid 4 miles of singletrack).

At the Base Camp Trailhead, begin a fun, twisty descent over many water bars. After the descent, you’ll cross a creek and a climb up to Fishhook Lake (a good spot for a snack). After riding along the east side of the lake, look for a left turn to continue on #1101 (don’t go to Lost Lake).

More rolling terrain with a few rocky sections will take you past Lake Elmo and to an obvious four-way intersection, which is another great spot for a snack or to regroup.

Turn left onto Fish Creek Falls Trail #1102, which rolls downhill toward Long Lake. Stay right as you first approach the lake and then continue onto Fish Creek Falls Trail # 1102 (don’t go to Fish Creek Reservoir). Another.

0.8 fairly flat miles later, turn left and begin climbing Mountain View Trail #1032. The trail climbs a few loose switchbacks then rolls through the forest, then climbs again. At the top, you’re rewarded with gorgeous views across Rabbit Ears Pass and a nice spot for a break. A couple more miles of rolling terrain take you to Steamboat Ski Resort. Head left on the resort’s dirt road to connect with Pete’s Wicked Trail to begin the descent.

The best route down is Pete’s Wicked Trail, right on Cathy’s Cutoff, right onto Sunshine Trail, and left on the dirt road. When the road comes to and intersection, look for the Elkhead singletrack straight ahead. Take a right on the road at end of Elkhead, then a quick left to keep gondola building on your right. Descend Huffman’s to a right turn onto a dirt road, and STEAMBOATBIKETOWN.COM

another right turn onto Valley View and finally straight on Sitz to Yoo Hoo. The ride ends at the bottom of Steamboat Ski Area.

Other trail options in the area Dumont Lake to Summit Lake on #1101: Descend Buffalo Pass Road to Dry Lake. Spring Creek Trail down into town.

Dumont Lake to Fish Creek Falls Trail: Same directions as Mountain View, but stay on #1102 Fish Creek Falls for arguably the most technical descent in the Steamboat area.

Base Camp Road toward Base Camp: turn left on #1101 and ride back to your vehicle on the singletrack. Easier 8-mile loop, no shuttle required.

Climb Steamboat Ski Area: Use Mountain View to access Divide Trail to Summit Lake and descend Buffalo Pass Road to Spring Creek, or Mountain View to Fish Creek Falls Trail.

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Lynx Pass

Rock Creek & Tepee Creek Rating: More difficult Season: June to October Know before you go: This gorgeous ride stays in great shape throughout the summer.

After an hour drive, you’ll be rewarded with winding singletrack along Rock Creek.

Parking: Take U.S. Highway 40 east from Steamboat. Follow Colorado Highway 131 south for 39 miles to Colo. 134. Follow 134, 8.2 miles to Forest Service Road #270 (Lynx Pass). Follow 270 3 miles and turn right onto FSR #263 for 1/4 mile. (If you pass the bathrooms, you’ve gone too far.) Park on the side of the road at the sharp switchback to the right.

Description: Leave the road at the outside corner of a sharp switchback in the road. Cross the creek and begin climbing Tepee Creek trail. Turn left onto FSR #263. Continue a moderate climb for about 4 miles. Take a right onto Rock Creek Trail. This starts as an old dirt road for about 1/2 mile; past a closed gate the trail turns into single-track. The trail descends steeply at first, then follows and crosses Rock Creek a few times. After following the creek, you’ll begin a short climb before descending an old two track. At the bottom of the descent, look for sharp right onto Tepee Creek Trail #1173. Climb along the Tepee Creek drainage back to the FSR #263. Continue straight across the road to stay on Tepee Creek Trail. Hang on tight for the fast descent back to the trailhead.

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Road & Mixed Rides Twentymile Road

This is a 30-mile loop with about 6 miles of well-maintained gravel roads.

C.R. 129 over Willow Creek Pass, past Hahn’s Peak Village and Steamboat Lake and climb up to Columbine where you can turn around (making it a 60-mile round trip from Steamboat Springs).

Shoulder width varies significantly along the length of Elk River Road (C.R. 129).

Stagecoach/ Oak Creek Loop A local’s favorite with rolling hills, plus a few hardy climbs, nice pavement and relatively low vehicle traffic especially on weekends.

Twentymile out and back: From downtown Steamboat Springs, turn off Lincoln Avenue at the library onto 13th Street. This will turn into Routt County Road 33 (Twentymile Road).

There is about 5 miles of open range, so pay close attention for cattle on the quick valley descents. It’s 40 miles out and back if you make it all the way to the coal mine at the junction of C.R. 33 and C.R. 27.

Twentymile Loop: For a longer loop variation of the ride (53.53 miles) continue on C.R. 27, with several fast drops into the small town of Oak Creek. The return follows C.R. 14 past Stagecoach State Park and reservoir. There is about 1 mile of well-maintained dirt road on C.R. 14 after the short interlude on Colorado Highway 131 toward Steamboat Springs.

A 40-mile classic Steamboat loop.

From Steamboat Springs, head south on C.R. 14 (River Road). At the junction of C.R. 35, veer left across the railroad tracks onto C.R. 14E and continue to the intersection with Colo. 131.

Go right on 131 for a brief stretch, then turn left back onto C.R. 14 heading to Stagecoach.

Ride over Yellow Jacket Pass (this stretch has narrow shoulders and some rough pavement), past Stagecoach Reservoir and intersect again with Colo. Highway 131. Turn right on Colo.

Highway 131 and head into Oak Creek. From Oak Creek, stay on Colo. 131, roll through the canyon and come back toward town, then turn left back onto C.R. 14E to ride back in on River Road.

Elk River Road/ Seedhouse Road

Emerald Loop

Gore Gruel Steamboat’s signature 110-mile century ride.

Head south from town on U.S. Highway 40 climbing over Rabbit Ears Pass, followed by some fast descending and rollers to Wolford Mountain Reservoir just before Kremmling. Turn right onto Colo. 134 for a scenic ride over Gore Pass. Descending from Gore Pass, turn right at the intersection with Colo. 131 through Toponas and head north. Just past Phippsburg take the right onto C.R. 14, pass by Stagecoach Reservoir and tackle the few final short climbs. It’s best to start this ride early in the morning to avoid traffic on U.S. 40 and to turn the corner at Toponas before the afternoon winds or storms pick up.

Take an extra bottle, too. It’s about 70 miles before your first chance for a snack in Toponas.

Airport Plus “Gravel Grinder” Equal parts pavement/dirt on this fun mixed ride around the Sleeping Giant.

Out-and-Back A Routt County cobblestone classic.

Head out of town on 13th Street/C.R. 33 (Twentymile Road) up and over the first major climb and take a left onto C.R. 43, where the gravel begins. Continue around the back side of Emerald Mountain, bearing right onto C.R. 41.

After the steep descent down to the Hilton Gulch schoolhouse, take a left back onto the pavement and continue down, merging with C.R. 35, then left on C.R. 14 (River Road), which will bring you back to town. Ride the loop in reverse for a challenging climb up Hilton Gulch.

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Gorgeous riding through small towns and historic ranches along the Elk River.

Head north from Steamboat Springs on C.R. 129 for a scenic, rolling ride through the Elk River Valley. Turn around at Clark for a 40-mile round trip. For a longer ride, turn right onto C.R. 64 (Seedhouse Road) just past Clark and head out to the end of the pavement at the Hinman Park turnaround for a 50-mile round trip. The Seedhouse Road section has narrow shoulders and some rough pavement.

For an even longer ride, from Clark continue on

Head north on Elk River Road and past the Steamboat Airport to C.R. 44 where you veer left onto the dirt. Continue out over the Elk River toward the Sleeping Giant and the farms that dot the countryside. Ride C.R. 44 until it hits U.S. 40 and then turn left for a pavement section that will take you east toward Steamboat. After the quick spin on the flat pavement turn right onto C.R. 33.

Over the railroad tracks and onto the dirt/gravel, then continue on 33 until you intersect Twentymile Road. Take a left onto Twentymile and make the easy spin on pavement back to town. This ride is a perfect 20 miles, with an estimated time of just over an hour.

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Twentymile Road Emerald Loop Stagecoach/Oak Creek Loop Elk River Road/Seedhouse Road Gore Gruel Airport Plus “Gravel Grinder”

disclaimer Routt County and the city of Steamboat Springs take no responsibility for users’ safety and in no way warrant the safety of the roadways. The inclusion of specific route descriptions in this guide does not signify a higher level of road or infrastructure maintenance and is not meant to recommend or condone a particular roadway for cycling.

You are responsible for your own safety. All users should educate themselves on the rules of the road, and cycling safety, before using any of the routes shown. Your skill, fitness level and comfort in diverse traffic situations will determine the streets most suitable for your cycling needs.

Be aware that automobile speeds and traffic volumes may vary depending upon the street and/or time of day.

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BMX & Pump Tracks While Steamboat has a wealth of trails for mountain bikers, it also has a few in-town options providing bank-filled fun for the whole family.

The BMX Track Steamboat Springs’ newly redesigned BMX track is free and bike-friendly for all ages and riders. Located near the base of Howelsen Hill, the 950-foot, professionally designed track is top-tier facility for the Rocky Mountain region.

“It’s a technical, professional course,” says Brian Deem, who helped get the course built. “It’s varied and requires more than just one skill to ride well. It teaches kids how to jump, but it’s also a very competitive track.”

Five years in the making, the track came about from Steamboat’s BMX club, Team Flying Wheels, aligning with the National Bicycle League.

Donations came from SSX Excavating, Wagner Rents, Prestige Property Detailing, private donors and more. The track turns back on itself for four straight shots, each littered with rollers, mounds and

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berms designed to challenge experts and beginners alike. It also features starting gates, lights and a public address system for a 10-race BMX summer series racing circuit, open to kids and adults.

Info: Team Flying Wheels, 970-871-9500

The Pump Track The Pump Track, located in Ski Time Square just north of the base of Steamboat Ski Area, is the latest addition to Steamboat’s quick and easy riding options, taking riders on a bank-filled, pedal-less course at the base of Mount Werner.

Designed to allow riders to cruise the entire course without pedaling, relying on “pumping” up and down to take advantage of gravity and momentum, the track is a partnership between the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club’s Gravity Team, the city and the Atira Group. The Pump Track is a great skill-building tool, and is open and free to riders of all ages and ability.

Info: SSWSC Gravity Team, 970-819-0843

The Bear River Bike Park Thanks to Routt County Riders receiving a $33,000 grant from Bell Helmets as well as further in-kind donations from RCR, the city of Steamboat Springs and local excavating companies, the newly renovated, city-owned Bear River Bike Park offers something fun for riders of all abilities. Built by the International Mountain Bicycling Association and Flowline Trail Design, the large pump track, located on the west side of town along the Yampa River, can be ridden numerous ways, with a multitude of jump options. It offers professionally built small, medium and large jump lines, each progressively built so that the last jump of each line resembles the first jump of the next, letting riders work their way up from small tabletops to pro level gaps in a safe and progressive manner.

And bring along your skateboard, too; the Bear River Bike Park also is home to the Bear River Skate Park, making it a great stop for families cruising the Yampa River Core Trail.

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APrès Biking Downtown Ciao Gelato — There’s always room for dessert. Ciao Gelato serves up decadent gelato along with pizza, paninis and coffee. 970-8707979, 700 Yampa St., Suite A-105 Cugino’s Pizzeria — What’s not to like about pizza or calzones and beer after a long ride? 970-879-5805, 41 Eighth St. Double Z BBQ — If you’ve really worked up an appetite, head to Double Z for Best of the Boat barbecue ribs and fries.

970-879-0849, 1124 Yampa St. E3 Chophouse — Swing by for happy hour beers and bar food (or an all-natural, Angus beef steak), complete with a beautiful lawn and deck overlooking the river. 970-879-7167, 701 Yampa St. Saketumi — Hop off your cycle straight into some sushi or cold beer at downtown’s newest offering. Grab a seat on the outdoor deck to view the terrain you just rode on Emerald Mountain. 970-870-1019, 609 Yampa St. Sunpie’s Bistro — Riverside, outdoor seating

and Hurricanes that should be consumed with caution. 970-870-3360, 735 Yampa St. Sweet Pea Market and Restaurant — A healthy, hearty salad sound good as well as a cold adult beverage? Sweet Pea is your spot.

970-879-1221, 729 Yampa St.

Joel Reichenberger

After a day of biking in Bike Town USA, pedal on up to any number of bars and restaurants downtown to wet your whistle.

Yampa Street, moments away from the trailheads on Emerald Mountain, is the perfect location for whatever suits your post-pedal fancy, from a cold beer by the river to a filling sandwich in the sun.

Following is a quick alphabetized après rundown: Aurum Food & Wine — Seasonal new American fare, with a Colorado-focused craft cocktail, beer and regional wine program along the Yampa River. 970-879-9500, 811 Yampa St. Bamboo Market — Don’t want to waste a good ride with fries and beers? Bamboo Market will refuel you with organic produce, salads, sandwiches and soups. 970-879-9992, 1110 Yampa St. Carl’s Tavern — Home of comfort food and big-screen TVs, Carl’s will fill your belly and entertain with great bluegrass bands. Try the Rocky Mountain Mule. 970-761-2060, 700 Yampa St.

Steamboat Bike Lawyer Knowledgeable in all areas of cycling - related legal matters, including traffic tickets, personal injury and driver harassments and assaults.

HAMMOND LAW OFFICES

Other practice areas include business, wills and estates, and civil litigation.

C: 970-819-6369 • O: 970-879-6060 • TME@yampalaw.com • 2504 Riverside Dr. • Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 64

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6/11/2014 MARABOU XC (Marabou Ranch) 6/25/2014 SUNSHINE LOOP XC (Mt. Werner) 7/9/2014 EMERALD ENVY XC (Emerald Mountain)

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