The best gravel rides in Summit County

Summit County offers over 20 gravel bike trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of moderate and difficult routes, with a few easier options as well.

Gravel biking in Summit County features diverse terrain, from smooth gravel paths to more challenging high-alpine ascents. You'll ride through the Rocky Mountains, experience significant elevation changes, and encounter historic mining areas, aspen groves, and mountain passes. Many routes offer breathtaking views of the Continental Divide and the expansive Dillon Reservoir.

While many routes offer challenging terrain, the region also has options suitable for families. The Summit County Recreational Pathway System (Recpath) provides over 55 miles of paved pathways that connect towns and often run adjacent to or provide access to gravel sections, offering scenic and leisurely rides. For a moderate gravel experience, consider the Union Pacific Rail Trail and Round Valley Loop.

You'll encounter stunning natural beauty and historical sites. Many routes offer views of the Continental Divide and the Dillon Reservoir. Historic mining areas like the Sallie Barber Trail provide insights into the region's past. You can also explore beautiful aspen groves, especially vibrant in the fall, and pristine alpine lakes such as Shadow Lake or Lily Lake. The Union Pacific Rail Trail itself is a significant feature, offering a unique riding experience.

Yes, there are several circular routes. For example, the McPolin Barn – Swaner Nature Preserve loop from Deer Valley is a popular 39.1 km (24.3 mi) loop. Another option is the Union Pacific Rail Trail and Round Valley Loop, a moderate 27.8 km (17.3 mi) circular path.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 9 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from moderate valley loops to challenging high-alpine ascents, and the stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes, including views of the Continental Divide and Dillon Reservoir.

The best time for gravel biking in Summit County is generally from late spring through early fall. During these months, the weather is more favorable, and most trails are free of snow. Fall offers the added beauty of vibrant aspen groves. Always check local conditions before heading out, especially for higher elevation passes.

Absolutely. Summit County offers several difficult routes for experienced gravel bikers. The Union Pacific Rail Trail and Echo Reservoir Loop is a challenging 111.6 km (69.3 mi) route. Other difficult options include the Silver Quinn Trail loop from Highland Drive Trailhead Parking and the McPolin Barn – Union Pacific Rail Trail loop from Deer Valley.

Summit County has a free public transportation system, the Summit Stage, which connects towns like Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne. While it can get you close to many trailheads, direct access to all gravel trails might require some additional riding or planning. The paved Summit County Recreational Pathway System (Recpath) is well-connected by public transport and can serve as a starting point for exploring gravel sections.

Parking is generally available at various trailheads throughout Summit County. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local government websites. For example, the Union Pacific Rail Trail – Silver Quinn Trail loop starts from Highland Drive Trailhead Parking, indicating dedicated parking facilities.

Yes, while many routes are moderate to difficult, there are easier options. The French Gulch Road to Sally Barber Road is described as a short and easy gravel ride, suitable for those new to gravel biking. Additionally, sections of the Summit County Recreational Pathway System (Recpath), though mostly paved, offer a gentle introduction to the region's scenic beauty and can lead to less technical gravel paths.

Summit County is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, with an average elevation of 6,800 feet. This means you can expect significant elevation gains on many routes, offering challenging climbs and spectacular views. Even moderate routes will involve some climbing, contributing to the high-country experience.