Biking

The Upper Arkansas Valley is a biker’s paradise! Road bikers, mountain bikers, and families looking for an easy cruise around town will take delight in the abundance of biking options. With excellent weather most of the year it’s not uncommon for bikers to enjoy an afternoon ride in perfect conditions after a morning of skiing or playing on the river.

The towns of Leadville, Buena Vista, and Salida all offer bike rentals and host a range of paved and dirt trails suitable for every age and ability level. Road biking enthusiasts enjoy quiet rural back roads that traverse the majestic views of the Sawatch Range. Sign up for a 25, 50, or 100 mile challenge at one of the area bike festivals or plan your own adventure. Fat tire purists have been falling in love with the mountain biking and moving to Fourteener Country for years.

The Monarch Crest Trail is one of the most popular area rides. With 1,000 feet of climbing and 3,800 feet of decent at elevations of 11,000–12,000 feet and options to ride 12-40 miles of challenging and fun singletrack it’s no wonder locals and visitors line up to test themselves on the Monarch Crest.

The Colorado Trail traverses across the Sawatch Range from Leadville, through Buena Vista, and on past Salida.  The CO Trail is well maintained, offers stunning views, and there is a section suitable for everyone. Numerous road and mountain bike routes exist and offer endless options for two wheeled exploration.