The best MTB trails around Upper Bear Creek

The Evergreen Mountain Summit Loop offers a fantastic mountain biking experience, guiding you through dense evergreen forests before opening up to spectacular panoramic views from the Evergreen Mountain Summit. This moderate 12.8-mile (20.5 km) loop features 1843 feet (562 metres) of climbing, typically completed in about 2 hours and 12 minutes, making it a solid choice for intermediate riders. You'll navigate winding singletrack, enjoy well-graded switchbacks, and be rewarded with vistas of the majestic Front Range peaks.

Located in Alderfer/Three Sisters Park in Evergreen, Colorado, this trail is a popular multi-use route. It's best to plan your ride during off-peak hours, especially in summer, as it can get quite busy. Be prepared for potentially challenging conditions with ice and snow if you venture out during the winter months.

This loop is a local favorite among mountain bikers, celebrated for its blend of a good workout and stunning scenery. Riders particularly enjoy the fun, flowy downhill sections and the challenging yet manageable technical features that define "proper mt biking" on the east side of the mountain.

The Mason Creek Trail and Catamount Overlook loop offers a truly scenic and demanding mountain biking experience, covering 27.5 miles (44.3 km) with a substantial 4564 feet (1391 metres) of elevation gain. You'll ride through a mix of singletrack, dense pine forests, and bright aspen groves, with some rocky sections and creek crossings. The reward for your effort is the breathtaking Catamount Overlook, where you can soak in expansive views of landmarks like Lions Head, Black Mountain, and even Pikes Peak on a clear day.

This difficult route is best suited for mountain bikers with good fitness and advanced skills, as some sections are quite technical and may require pushing your bike. Plan for an estimated 5 hours to complete the loop, starting from the Kings Valley area. It's a popular trail within Staunton State Park, so consider an early start, especially on busy days.

What makes this loop stand out is its comprehensive showcase of Staunton State Park's varied terrain and natural beauty. Beyond the challenging climbs, you'll find long, flowing downhill sections that are a joy to ride. The combination of diverse forest types, open meadows, and significant geological formations, culminating in the rewarding views from Catamount Overlook, makes it a top-tier mountain biking destination in the region.

The Elk Falls Pond and West Meadow Loop Trail via Cub Creek Trail offers a dynamic mountain biking adventure through Staunton State Park's diverse landscapes. You'll navigate a mix of terrain, from the "rowdy, rocky, and rooty" challenges of Cub Creek Trail to the "smooth sailing" sections of West Meadow Trail, all while passing through scenic pine forests, alpine meadows, and past the tranquil Elk Falls Pond. This route provides a rewarding experience with varied scenery and technical sections, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a good challenge.

Planning your ride requires attention to seasonal closures; the North Elk Creek Trail, a key connector to Cub Creek, is closed to bikes annually from March 1st to June 15th. The park's trails are well-marked, and Class 1 e-bikes are permitted on the West Meadow Trail, offering some flexibility. Always check current park conditions before you go to ensure the best experience on this difficult 21.7-mile (34.9 km) route.

This difficult mountain biking route covers 21.7 miles (34.9 km) with a substantial 3436 feet (1047 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 52 minutes. It's best suited for intermediate riders looking for a significant workout and diverse terrain. The combination of challenging climbs and fun descents, coupled with opportunities for wildlife viewing and spectacular mountain views, makes this a standout option among popular trails in the Elk Falls area.