Buffalo Creek - Big Burrito loop

The primary access point for this loop is the Buffalo Creek Trailhead. It's a popular spot, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended to secure parking.

No, this loop is categorized as a difficult mountain bike ride requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills. It features substantial mileage, significant elevation gain, and challenging technical sections, making it unsuitable for beginners.

The best time to ride is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During spring and summer, you'll see abundant wildflowers and new growth from the wildfire recovery. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out, as snow can linger into late spring and early fall.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, which is part of the Pike National Forest. 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.

The Buffalo Creek Recreation Area is located within the Pike National Forest. While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the forest itself, some trailheads or developed recreation sites might require a day-use fee or a valid recreation pass (like an America the Beautiful Pass). Check signage at the Buffalo Creek Trailhead for the most current information.

The loop offers diverse terrain, including extensive singletrack, some path and road sections, and natural surfaces. You'll encounter three major climbs and three outstanding downhills. While much of the area is known for flowy cross-country, this loop includes technical elements like rock features, rock rolls, and tight lines through boulders, with some sections potentially requiring you to push your bike.

The Big Burrito loop integrates several well-known trails. You'll ride sections of Nice Kitty, Little Scraggy Trail, portions of the Colorado Trail, Shinglemill, Baldy, Charlie's Cutoff, Homestead, and Sandy Wash. These trails combine to create a challenging and continuous journey.

You'll experience the unique beauty of the Rocky Mountain foothills, including areas recovering from past wildfires. This means a blend of new growth, young trees, shrubs, and abundant wildflowers in season, alongside remnants of older forests. The scenery can be quite surreal in sections that traverse burned-out areas, offering a powerful visual experience of nature's resilience.

Yes, the route is a comprehensive loop that incorporates sections of several well-known paths within the Buffalo Creek Trail System. You'll ride on parts of Little Scraggy 765, Baldy 727, Nice Kitty 768, Sandy Wash 730, and the Colorado Trail, among others, creating a seamless and extensive mountain biking experience.

This loop is known for being a "giant loop with no backtracking," offering a continuous journey without repeating sections. It features three spectacular climbs that will test your fitness and three outstanding downhills that challenge your nerve, including fast, flowy sections and technical rock features. It's designed to be a full-day adventure for advanced riders.

Given its length and difficulty, you should bring plenty of water (there are no reliable water sources on the trail), high-energy snacks, a repair kit for your bike (including tubes, pump, and tools), a first-aid kit, sun protection, and appropriate layers for changing weather conditions. A GPS device or a downloaded map is also highly recommended due to the extensive network of trails.