FATMAP by Strava

Standley Lake South Shore Trails

Denver

Mellow singletrack on the south shore of Standley Lake makes for a great beginner ride.

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance
7.2 km
Ascent
71 m
Descent
71 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
1.7 km
High Point
1.7 km
Gradient
Standley Lake South Shore Trails Map

While Standley Lake isn't well-known amongst the mountain bike trails in the Denver Metro area, the network of singletrack along the lake's south shore makes for the perfect beginner ride. The trails here are mellow and fun, and the views across the lake to the Front Range beyond are gorgeous.

Description

A few different trailheads provide access to this trail system, but the route mapped here begins from the main parking lot. As you begin to ride, you'll notice that there are unmarked singletrack trails branching in all directions. Trying to stick to this route precisely and navigate around the loop may prove to be an exercise in futility, so I recommend just picking a few trails and going for it!

However, if you want to keep to the easier trails, try to form an exterior loop similar to the one I've mapped. A few of the trails that cross the loop and cut straight down to the lakeside drop down short but somewhat steep stretches of eroded singletrack. A few of these trails have eroded to reveal roots and rocks that increase the difficulty to lower intermediate.

If you do end up on one of these trails, don't fret: you can easily walk over the obstacles, and since the singletrack segments are so short, you'll soon find yourself on another trail.

One final word of caution: these trails, while open to mountain bikes, are quite popular with hikers and dog walkers. Remember that mountain bikers must always yield to hikers.

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

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between April and November

Features

  • Flow
  • Picturesque
  • Singletrack