Coney Buchanan loop

Parking is typically available at trailheads near Ward, Colorado, which serve the Coney Buchanan loop. Specific parking details for the trailhead are often found near areas like Peaceful Valley Camp Dick. Be aware that during peak seasons, parking can fill up quickly.

No, this loop is generally considered an expert route with a "hard" overall physical rating. The singletrack sections, especially the Buchanan Pass Trail, are rated Black Diamond due to steepness, technical features, and rocky terrain. It involves a significant climb and a technical descent.

While rideable across seasons, the best times are often spring or fall when the ground is drier and motor vehicle traffic on Coney Creek Road might be reduced. During summer, consider riding early morning or evening to avoid heavy 4x4 traffic. In winter, it transforms into an excellent fat biking destination as snow covers many rocks, making for a smoother, albeit still challenging, ride.

As the Coney Buchanan loop is located within Roosevelt National Forest, standard forest regulations apply. Generally, there are no specific permits required for day-use mountain biking on this trail itself. However, always check the official US Forest Service website for any current alerts, closures, or specific regulations regarding parking or camping in the area, especially if you plan to extend your stay.

Yes, the Coney Buchanan loop is generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash, especially given the potential for other trail users (including 4x4 vehicles) and wildlife. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste.

The terrain is diverse and challenging. You'll start with a substantial climb on a 4WD road (Coney Creek Road) through forests, wetlands, and meadows, which can have large puddles. The singletrack sections, particularly the Buchanan Pass Trail, are very rocky, with varying sizes of rocks, making for a technical ride. The descent is described as "techy" and includes traversing a scree field.

The Coney Buchanan loop is approximately 16.4 kilometers (11 miles) long. For an experienced mountain biker, it typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete, though this can vary significantly based on skill level, trail conditions, and stops for scenery.

Riders can enjoy beautiful forests, open wetlands, and expansive meadows during the climb. The views from higher elevations are particularly rewarding, offering a sense of wilderness. The loop also features a "raucous descent down sublime creekside singletrack" that adds to the experience. A key part of the route is the Buchanan Pass Trail.

Yes, the Coney Buchanan loop incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride parts of the Buchanan Pass Trail, Coney Creek Road, Sourdough Trail, County Road 92J, Beaver Reservoir Cutoff Trail, Coney Flats Road, and Beaver Creek Trail. Be aware that the first 4.5 miles of Buchanan Pass Trail are outside the Wilderness Boundary, allowing bikes, but riders must be aware of the boundary if they wish to continue further.

Absolutely! In summer, expect heavy 4x4 traffic on Coney Creek Road; riding early morning or evening can help avoid this. For a potentially drier and less crowded experience, aim for spring or fall. In winter, the trail becomes a fantastic fat biking destination, as a good layer of snow can smooth out many of the rocky sections, offering a unique challenge.

Given the technical and challenging nature of this loop, it's essential to be well-prepared. Pack plenty of water, snacks, a repair kit (including a spare tube, pump, and multi-tool), a first-aid kit, and appropriate layers of clothing for changing mountain weather. A helmet and protective gear are highly recommended due to the rocky and technical descents. Always carry a map or GPS device, as cell service can be unreliable.