FATMAP by Strava

Strand Hill

Crested Butte

Salida

Short but steep and fast descents in a tightly-wound trail network.

Mountain Biking Moderate

Distance
15 km
Ascent
337 m
Descent
337 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
2.7 km
High Point
3 km
Gradient
Strand Hill Map

On the surface, the Strand Hill network might not look that impressive next to the other trail offerings in the Crested Butte area, but this easily-accessible trail system packs a big punch in a small area. The descents at Strand are quite short, but what they lack in length they more than make up for in steepness, speed, flow, and smiles-per-miles.

Description

Thanks to its low elevation, the Strand Hill Trail System opens up earlier than many CB-area trails and stay open later in the winter. This network can sometimes be a great place to avoid afternoon monsoons in the summertime if you're trying to squeeze two rides into a day.

Whether you choose to climb the road or pedal up the singletrack as shown here, the main descent down is fast and furious. The narrow singletrack swoops in and out of a valley, with naturally-banked turns. A few big roots and short rock gardens will keep you on your toes, but overall these trails are a great choice for intermediate riders. The climb can be a bit of a steep grunt, but like everything at Strand, it's over quickly.

Note: The Canal Trail along the base of the mountain can sometimes have very steep stream crossings when the drainage ditch is flowing wide-open.

Sources: https://crestedbuttemountainbike.com/rides/intermediate-standard-strand-mountain-bike-loop/

Difficulty

Moderate

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability, with unavoidable obstacles 8in/20cm tall or less. Other obstacles such as rock gullies and steep sections may exist. Ideal for lower intermediate riders.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Features

  • Flow
  • Road sections
  • Roots
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area