Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Buena Vista, Colorado, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking thrilling Buena Vista mountain biking experiences. With a rich history in adventure sports, Wilderness Aware has been guiding outdoor activities in Buena Vista since 1976, including exciting Buena Vista white water rafting trips along the Arkansas River. Our deep connection to the area and decades of experience in outdoor recreation give us unique insight into the best trails and hidden gems for mountain biking in this stunning region.
From beginners to experts, Buena Vista offers a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 5 mountain bike trails near Buena Vista, highlighting their difficulty, location, characteristics, scenery, length, estimated time to complete and general trail information.
1. Midland Hill Loop
If you’re new to mountain biking, the Midland Hill Loop is a great place to start. This gentle trail features smooth terrain and gradual climbs, making it perfect for beginners looking to build confidence. The loop provides easy access to gravel service roads and connects to Buena Vista via the River Park Trail system, offering options to extend your ride. Along the way, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Arkansas Valley and Collegiate Peaks.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Location: Midland Hill Trailhead
- Length: Approximately 3 miles
- Estimated Time: 1–1.5 hours
2. Buena Vista River Park Trails
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Buena Vista River Park
- Length: Around 3–6 miles
- Estimated Time: 2–2.5 hours
For riders ready to take their skills to the next level, the Buena Vista River Park Trails offer a mix of flowing singletrack and varied terrain. North, South, and Whipple trails provide steady climbs with forgiving descents, while Broken Boyfriend and Elevation Camp add more technical sections and extended rides for those seeking a challenge. The trails wind along the Arkansas River, offering breathtaking views of the water and surrounding mountains. Whether you’re looking for a quick adventure or a longer ride, this network has something for every intermediate rider.
3. Monarch Crest Trail
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Location: Monarch Pass
- Length: Approximately 35 miles (point-to-point)
- Estimated Time: 4–6 hours
A true Colorado classic, the Monarch Crest Trail is a must-ride for experienced mountain bikers looking for a technical challenge. This high-altitude route features a thrilling mix of flowy downhill, rugged rocky sections, and cross-country-style riding. Expect steep descents, exposed ridgelines, and technical terrain that demands skill and endurance. The trail winds through alpine meadows, dense forests, and wide-open mountain vistas, offering some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state. If you’re up for an unforgettable ride packed with adrenaline and epic views, Monarch Crest delivers.
5. Rainbow Trail
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Location: Along the Sangre de Cristo Range
- Length: Approximately 24 miles
- Estimated Time: 4–5 hours
For those craving a long, scenic adventure, the Rainbow Trail offers an unforgettable ride through diverse landscapes. This challenging yet rewarding route features a mix of technical sections and flowing descents, making it a favorite among endurance riders. Winding through dense forests and open meadows, the trail showcases breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Riders can extend their journey for an even greater challenge, with the route stretching toward the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Whether you’re tackling it as a standalone ride or linking it into a multi-day excursion, the Rainbow Trail delivers an epic backcountry biking experience.
