FATMAP by Strava

Rustler's Loop

Fruita

Rustler's Loop is probably the best beginner mountain bike trail in the state of Colorado.

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance
5.7 km
Ascent
84 m
Descent
84 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
1.4 km
High Point
1.4 km
Gradient
Rustler's Loop Map

Rustler’s Loop might just be the most incredible beginner mountain bike trail in the state of Colorado and, by extension, the world.

Description

While perhaps that assertion contains a bit of hyperbole, it’s honestly not far off. Rustler’s has been specifically designed and built to help beginner mountain bikers increase their skills and learn to enjoy riding singletrack. Easy climbs flow up the hillside, leading to easy descents down the other side. But the trail isn’t a totally flat singletrack, either. Small technical rock features are interspersed in the second half of the trail, providing a little bit of spice and entertainment. This isn’t road biking, after all. This is mountain biking, and the trail builders who constructed Rustler’s tried to showcase the challenge and entertainment that mountain biking can provide.

Signs are posted along the trail at regular intervals and key trail features, providing tips for beginners to help them learn the sport and negotiate the specific obstacle in question. For instance, at a small rock ledge, a sign will explain how to climb up the ledge. Before a descent, a sign will explain the ideal body position for descending.

Unlike some beginner trails that are located in a ho-hum area with zero views, Rustler’s also provides spectacular vistas of the Colorado River down below. A couple of vista points provide the perfect spot to stop for a snack and enjoy the experience.

Intermediate and advanced riders that pedal the Rustler’s loop should expect to encounter conga lines of beginners, and they should be considerate of beginner riders by passing respectfully. This trail has been built for them, after all. That said, Rustler's still provides an entertaining rip for any mountain biker. The final descent, in particular, is a superb bobsled run of flowy, banked turns.

Difficulty

Easy

Mostly smooth and non-technical singletrack with unavoidable obstacles 2in/5cm tall or less. Avoidable obstacles may be present. Ideal for beginner riders.

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between February and November

Features

  • Flow
  • Picturesque
  • Singletrack
  • Rock Slabs

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area