The best MTB trails in Pine Valley Ranch Park
4.9
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1,236
riders
23
rides
Mountain biking in Pine Valley Ranch Park offers an extensive trail system within diverse landscapes, managed by Jefferson County Open Space. The area is characterized by towering granite cliffs, mixed-conifer woodlands, and the scenic North Fork of the South Platte River. Riders can explore various mountain habitats and access the broader Buffalo Creek Recreation Area in Pike National Forest. This region provides a range of mountain bike trails suitable for different skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails in Pine Valley Ranch Park
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Buffalo Creek loop via Pine Lake Trailhead, a 20.7 miles (33.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 25 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers scenic views and connects to the larger Buffalo Creek trail network.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Gashouse Trail loop from Pine Valley Ranch Park, a difficult 24.4 miles (39.3 km) path. This challenging route features significant elevation gain and requires advanced riding skills.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Pine Valley Ranch Park – Pine Valley Ranch Park loop from Pine Valley Ranch Park, an 18.2 miles (29.3 km) trail leading through diverse mountain habitats, often completed in about 3 hours 0 minutes.
- Mountain biking in Pine Valley Ranch Park is defined by granite cliffs, mixed-conifer woodlands, and riverside paths along the South Platte River. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in Pine Valley Ranch Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 1500 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Pine Valley Ranch Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
5.0
(1)
26
riders
33.3km
03:25
770m
770m
Mountain bike the moderate 20.7-mile Buffalo Creek loop via Pine Lake Trailhead, gaining 2522 feet with scenic Rocky Mountain views.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
29.4km
03:01
670m
670m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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5.0
(1)
72
riders
41.4km
04:03
790m
790m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
139
riders
40.4km
04:12
820m
820m
Prepare for a challenging mountain biking adventure on the Buffalo Creek Loop, a difficult route spanning 25.1 miles (40.4 km). You will climb 2700 feet (823 metres) over an estimated 4 hours and 11 minutes of riding. The trail offers a dynamic cross-country experience, winding through heavily forested sections and striking landscapes of burned-out forests. As you ride, you will encounter expansive views of the Rocky Mountains. Look forward to following the beautiful Buffalo Creek, with parts like the Gashouse Trail providing smooth, flowing singletrack.
The Buffalo Creek Loop is situated within the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, a popular spot for mountain biking. If you are planning an early-season ride, this trail is often one of the first to dry out in the spring. Be aware that e-bikes are generally not permitted on non-motorized trails in this specific area. The broader trail system here also offers many possibilities to link up various routes, allowing you to customize your experience.
This route stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and a significant physical test. The landscape tells a story with its mix of lush forests and areas shaped by past fires, creating a distinct backdrop for your ride. It is a prime example of the diverse and engaging mountain biking Colorado has to offer, making it a notable destination for riders seeking a substantial challenge.
5.0
(2)
161
riders
30.0km
02:57
580m
580m
Get ready for a moderate mountain biking adventure on the Buffalo Creek North Side loop, covering 18.6 miles (30.0 km) with a significant 1906 feet (581 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this ride in just under 3 hours, around 2 hours and 56 minutes. The route takes you through varied scenery in Pike National Forest, from dense forests to unique burned-out sections that create a striking backdrop. You'll enjoy extensive singletrack and flowy descents, passing impressive rock formations and expansive granite sections that offer great viewpoints. This trail delivers a classic Colorado singletrack experience.
Accessing the Buffalo Creek North Side loop is straightforward, with convenient parking available at the Buffalo Creek Trailhead. This popular destination is located about an hour southwest of Denver, so consider arriving early, especially if you plan to ride on a weekend. The area is well-known, and early arrival helps secure a spot. If you're looking to extend your stay, free dispersed camping is also an option nearby.
The Buffalo Creek area is renowned for its extensive singletrack and flowy descents, making it a prime spot for mountain biking in Colorado. The unique burned-out areas you'll encounter are a notable feature, providing a surreal and distinct visual experience. Keep an eye out for the impressive rock formations and expansive granite sections that add to the trail's character. This route stands out for its blend of challenging terrain and scenic beauty within Pike National Forest.
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Popular around Pine Valley Ranch Park
Tips from the Community
The Little Scraggy Trailhead has a pit toilet, parking, benches, but no trash can. You can camp dispersed close by, and it connects to the Colorado Trail just off County Road 126. This point marks the end of Segment 2 on the Colorado Trail and the beginning of Segment 3.
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The Little Scraggy Trailhead has a pit toilet and picnic benches. You can even camp pretty close to it.
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The trailhead has a dirt parking lot and easy access to the Colorado Trail as you set off to the south. Once you hit the trail junction with the CT the trail is in partial tree cover that quickly becomes much denser shade as you head south.
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Pine Valley Ranch Park is a popular spot for hiking, running, fishing and ice skating. There are several miles of trails to enjoy and a beautiful lake with an island in the center. There is also a great picnic area with restrooms.
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Pine Valley Ranch Park has plenty of activities for the outdoor enthusiast from hiking, to biking, and even ice skating! Opened in 1987, this park is home to the 1927 Baehrden Lodge that is now open for public tours.
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Shinglemill Trail is a segment of the Colorado Trail. The surface is a non-technical flowy dirt that winds through the once burned grassy hillsides. There is a nice mix of tree coverage and sun exposure along the way.
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Gashouse can be ridden in both directions. Most sections are smooth and flowy, but you will also find some amazingly chunky rocks.
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The good thing: Buffalo Creek Recreation Area has some of the most fun riding and some of the best trails in all of the Front Range. The suboptimal thing: The approximaty to the metropol area of Denver means it can get crowded on the Trailhead parking on weekends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Pine Valley Ranch Park?
Pine Valley Ranch Park offers a diverse network of over 20 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from moderate to difficult, and provide access to the broader Buffalo Creek Recreation Area.
What is the typical difficulty level for mountain biking in Pine Valley Ranch Park?
The trails in Pine Valley Ranch Park primarily feature moderate to difficult ratings. Out of the 21 available routes, 13 are considered moderate and 7 are difficult, offering a good challenge for intermediate to advanced riders. There is also one easy route for those seeking a less strenuous ride.
Are there any loop mountain bike trails in Pine Valley Ranch Park?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Pine Valley Ranch Park are loops. For example, the Buffalo Creek loop via Pine Lake Trailhead is a popular moderate 33.3 km loop, and the challenging Gashouse Trail loop from Pine Valley Ranch Park covers 39.3 km with significant elevation gain.
What are some of the longer mountain bike routes in the area?
For those looking for longer rides, the Buffalo Creek Loop is a difficult 40.4 km trail, typically taking over 4 hours to complete. Another challenging option is the Gashouse Trail loop from Pine Valley Ranch Park, which spans 39.3 km.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while mountain biking in Pine Valley Ranch Park?
Mountain biking in Pine Valley Ranch Park offers diverse landscapes, including towering granite cliffs, mixed-conifer woodlands, and scenic riverside paths along the North Fork of the South Platte River. You'll also find various mountain habitats and unique burn zones from past fires, providing varied scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Pine Valley Ranch Park?
The mountain bike trails in Pine Valley Ranch Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 25 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, challenging climbs, and the scenic beauty of the Rocky Mountain views and riverside sections.
Are there any specific attractions or natural features to look out for along the trails?
While riding, you'll encounter notable natural features like Pine Lake, the scenic North Fork of the South Platte River with its dramatic granite cliffs, and diverse habitats suitable for birdwatching. The park also features the historic Baehrden Lodge, though it is currently closed.
What is the best season for mountain biking in Pine Valley Ranch Park?
Pine Valley Ranch Park offers year-round recreational opportunities. However, for mountain biking, spring through fall generally provides the most favorable conditions, with warmer weather and clear trails. It's always advisable to check current trail conditions before heading out.
How long does it typically take to complete a mountain bike trail in Pine Valley Ranch Park?
Trail durations vary significantly based on difficulty and length. Moderate routes like the Pine Valley Ranch Park – Pine Valley Ranch Park loop from Pine Valley Ranch Park typically take around 3 hours. More challenging and longer routes, such as the Buffalo Creek Loop, can take over 4 hours.
Are there any less crowded mountain bike trails near Pine Valley Ranch Park?
While Pine Valley Ranch Park is a popular destination, exploring the extensive network of trails, especially those that venture deeper into the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, can offer a more secluded experience. Routes like the Buffalo Creek North Side loop provide a moderate ride through forests and rock formations, potentially offering quieter sections.
What kind of wildlife might I spot while mountain biking?
The diverse habitats within Pine Valley Ranch Park, including mixed-conifer woodlands and riverside willow habitats, make it a good spot for birdwatching. You might see species like the American Dipper, MacGillivray's Warbler, and Lincoln's Sparrow. The burn zones also offer unique opportunities to spot various wildlife.
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