Buffalo Creek North Side loop

The Buffalo Creek North Side loop is approximately 29.95 km (18.6 miles) long and generally takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes to complete by mountain bike. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The loop typically starts and ends at the Buffalo Creek Trailhead. This is a popular and well-known parking area for accessing the extensive trail system.

The terrain is characterized by smooth, buff, and flowing singletrack, making for a largely intermediate cross-country mountain biking experience. While much of it is flowy, expect long, steady climbs that add to the physical challenge. The surface can be sandy and loose in places, and there are some rollable rock features, but it's generally not overly technical on this specific loop.

While much of the singletrack is considered intermediate and flowing, making it accessible for many riders, the length (nearly 30 km) and significant elevation gain (581 m) can be physically demanding for true beginners. Riders should have a reasonable level of fitness and some experience with singletrack to comfortably enjoy the full loop.

You can expect diverse and scenic views along the route. The trail traverses through forests and some sections pass through areas affected by past wildfires, creating a unique and sometimes surreal backdrop. Keep an eye out for interesting rock formations and expanses of granite.

This area is renowned for its fun, fast, and flowy downhill sections. The Buffalo Creek Trail System, of which this loop is a part, holds IMBA Epic status, signifying a world-class mountain biking destination with extensive singletrack. It also connects to portions of the Colorado Trail, offering a vast network of riding opportunities.

The best time to ride is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October), when the trails are clear of snow and dry. Summer can be hot, so an early start is recommended. Always check current trail conditions before heading out, especially after heavy rain or during shoulder seasons.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails in the Buffalo Creek area, as it is part of the Pike National Forest. However, always respect forest regulations and Leave No Trace principles.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails in the Buffalo Creek area. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

Yes, the route is part of the extensive Buffalo Creek Trail System and intersects with numerous other paths. Along this specific loop, you'll ride sections of trails like Sandy Wash 730, 725 - Morrison Creek, Miller Gulch 730, Homestead 728, and Gashouse Trail, among others. This allows for many options to customize your ride.

The Buffalo Creek area is primarily a natural recreation zone. While there are no extensive commercial facilities directly at the trailhead, you might find basic amenities like restrooms. For cafes, pubs, or more substantial accommodation, you would need to venture to nearby towns, typically about an hour's drive away from Denver.