Catamount Reservoir Beach – Blue River Trail Turnaround loop from North Catamount Dam
Catamount Reservoir Beach – Blue River Trail Turnaround loop from North Catamount Dam
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Catamount Reservoir Beach – Blue River Trail Turnaround loop from North Catamount Dam
01:26
14.8km
230m
Mountain biking
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 5, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 111 m for 323 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
3.52 km
North Catamount Reservoir
Lake
4.47 km
Catamount Reservoir Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
4.48 km
Blue River Trail Turnaround
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
13.5 km
South Catamount Reservoir
Lake
14.3 km
South Catamount Reservoir Dam
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
14.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.46 km
5.32 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
9.46 km
5.39 km
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Elevation
Highest point (2,930 m)
Lowest point (2,810 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Wednesday 24 June
21°C
9°C
34 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding mountain biking experience with incredible views without pushing yourself to the limit, the Catamount Reservoir Beach – Blue River Trail Turnaround loop from North Catamount Dam is an excellent choice. This easy 9.2-mile (14.8 km) mountain biking route features 771 feet (235 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for intermediate riders seeking a scenic high-alpine ride with plenty of visual payoff.
What to expect on Catamount Reservoir Beach – Blue River Trail Turnaround loop from North Catamount Dam
This route offers a diverse journey through the North Slope Recreation Area, blending singletrack, gravel logging roads, and dirt roads. You'll navigate through wetlands and forested areas, with some sections of the trail being quite rooted or washed out, adding a bit of character to the ride. The highlight of the scenery is undoubtedly the consistent, spectacular views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding pine and aspen forests as you skirt the shores of both North and South Catamount Reservoirs. The Blue River Trail Turnaround itself even features a small beach area, though swimming in the reservoir is not permitted. Expect a moderate challenge, especially considering the entire trail sits above 9,200 feet in elevation, meaning thinner air will make even gentle climbs feel more significant.
Planning your visit
Access to this area is typically from Edlowe Road off Highway 24 or via the Pikes Peak Highway, which requires a fee. Be aware that the area experiences seasonal closures, usually from December to April, and some gates may be closed between October 1st and May 1st, so always check current conditions before heading out. Given the high elevation, it's wise to be prepared for thinner air and carry plenty of water. While popular for mountain biking, some segments of the trail are multi-use, so be courteous and aware of hikers.
Trail details
- Distance: 9.2 miles (14.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 771 feet (235 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 26 minutes
Comments
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