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Writer's pictureAnnie Markuson

Top Beginner Mountain Bike Trails - Summit County

Perimeter Loop @ Frisco Peninsula, Oro Grande Trail, Gold Run Gulch Loop


Perimeter Loop - Frisco Peninusla

  • Length - 6.1 miles

  • Elevation Gain - 217ft

  • Route Type - Loop

Description - A generally smooth and flow loop with amazing lake views. If I were to cast a vote, I would say the best family friendly area perfect for anyone starting out mountain biking or simply looking for an easy and scenic ride on dirt singletrack. Although this trail can be busy on weekends and evenings if you time it right you may only run into a few fellow mountain bikers and hikers. A number of new rails have been added to the Frisco Peninsula trail system in recent years, so if you want to extend your ride or mix it up a bit there are lots of options to do so, even for beginners! Check out Treasure Vault, Excelsior, Phat Loop, Queen of the West & Jody’s Nugget while in the area or on your next visit!


  • Length - 3.9 miles

  • Elevation Gain - 447ft

  • Route Type - Out and Back

Description - Smooth and rolling with insane views of Lake Dillon and the Tenmile Range. This trail technically ends after a climb and some switchbacks up by the shooting range. For beginners I suggest parking off of County Road 51 in Dillon in a small lot adjacent to a large water tank and riding the trail through the disc golf course until you get to a trail intersection for Oro Grande, Frey Gulch, and Landfill Road Trail. At this junction turn around to head back to the car to avoid the last section of climbing OR at the disc golf course take Sage Trail down, cross the highway, and hop on the paved rec path to get back.


Gold Run Gulch Loop - Breckenridge

  • Length - 2.7 miles

  • Elevation Gain - 334ft

  • Route Type - Loop

Description - Short and sweet with some mining ruins along the way. This trail tends to be quite popular with both hikers and mountain bikers during the prime summer months, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly. This section is just a small part of the Golden Horseshoe Trail System, so several trails intersect with this loop. You can easily add on additional mileage if you would like! Keep in mind that any other trail you add on in the area will be more advanced. Another way to add some mileage to your area ride is to cross the highway and hop on The River Trail, a great option for kids looking to get off the pavement and give dirt single track a try for the first time!



FREE COLORADO GPS TRAIL MAP

I highly suggest downloading the totally free COTrex App prior to heading out on your ride. Select your activity: Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding, Motorcycle, ATV, OHV, Nordic Skiing, Snowmobiling, or Snowshoeing to see what trails are open and available for each activity. This app is only a couple year old and covers all trails in Colorado. It is not yet great at rating or describing trails in our area, but it is GPS connected, so you will always know where you are and what your trail/road options are when it comes to getting back to your vehicle or accommodation. I’ve also found it useful when planning longer rides in areas unfamiliar to me.


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