The best MTB trails in Chaffee County

This difficult 21.9 miles (35.2 km) mountain biking loop in Salida, Colorado, offers technical terrain and panoramic mountain views.

Experience moderate mountain biking on the 20.8-mile Midland Bike Trail, featuring historical remnants and views of the Collegiate Peaks.

This difficult 8.8-mile mountain biking loop in Salida's Arkansas Hills Trail System offers varied terrain and 845 feet of elevation gain.

The Vitamin B Trail Loop is a 12.6-mile mountain biking route in Buena Vista, Colorado, known for its highly technical terrain.

This difficult 22.5-mile mountain biking loop on Methodist Mountain offers big climbs, technical singletrack, and stunning views near Salida

Mountain bike the challenging 4.9-mile Front Side, Tenderfoot, Little Rattler and Spiral Trail loop, offering great views and access to Sali

Get ready for a moderate mountain biking adventure on the Silver Creek - Rainbow Trail Loop, covering 19.0 miles (30.5 km) with a total elevation gain of 1746 feet (532 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 57 minutes. The trail offers diverse scenery, starting with a climb along Silver Creek where you'll pass through willows and beaver ponds, with views of peaks like Antora Peak. As you transition to the Rainbow Trail singletrack, you will ride through dense forests and open into high meadows, revealing expansive views of the Sangre de Cristo Range. Keep an eye out for aspens and even a glimpse of 14er Mt. Shavano from certain spots.

This loop is particularly popular for mountain biking during the shoulder seasons, especially in spring and fall, when many higher-elevation trails are still closed due to snow. The main access point and typical starting location is a gradual climb on the dirt road, County Road 47YY, also known as Silver Creek Road. Be aware that the Rainbow Trail is a multi-use path, so you might encounter dirt bikes during your ride. Always be prepared to share the trail with other users.

The Silver Creek - Rainbow Trail Loop stands out as a great option when other high-altitude trails are inaccessible. It provides a consistent and engaging experience for mountain bikers looking for varied terrain. The route's blend of creek-side riding, dense forest sections, and open meadows with mountain vistas makes it a regional favorite. This trail offers a good alternative for those seeking a solid ride without venturing too high into the mountains.

This moderate 11.1-mile mountain bike loop near Buena Vista, Colorado, offers scenic views and a mix of smooth and technical terrain.

Embark on the Alpine Tunnel loop, a challenging mountain biking adventure spanning 20.3 miles (32.7 km) with a significant 2961 feet (902 metres) of elevation gain. This route will take you approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, immersing you in high-altitude terrain above 12,000 feet. You will experience expansive views of alpine peaks and navigate a varied landscape that combines old railroad grades with primitive singletrack, offering a diverse riding experience.

When planning your visit, aim for the period between June and October to ensure the trail is clear of snow, as it reaches considerable elevations. It is wise to avoid peak holiday weekends if you prefer a quieter ride, as sections of the trail are shared with ATVs and Jeeps. Always check local conditions before you head out, especially regarding weather changes at high altitudes.

This loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, taking you past the ghost town of St. Elmo. As you ride, you will encounter old mining relics and enjoy views of the picturesque Tunnel Lake. The trail's historical significance, combined with its challenging high-alpine environment, makes it a notable ride in the Gunnison National Forest.