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Twin Lakes Loop

Leadville

Salida

Arguably the most scenic beginner-friendly ride in the High Rockies region.

Mountain Biking Easy

Distance
23 km
Ascent
322 m
Descent
322 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
2.8 km
High Point
2.9 km
Gradient
Twin Lakes Loop Map

Most mountain bike rides that provide views of towering mountain peaks and beautiful lakes from narrow singletrack are extremely challenging. Either they require a long climb to access those views, or the trail itself is very technical.

Description

Beginner and intermediate riders rejoice: the Twin Lakes Loop is neither of those things! Aside from one short, steep stretch on the far upper end of the lake (which can easily be walked), the Twin Lakes Loop is one of the easiest cross country loop rides you may find in the Colorado High Country. Taking place on almost perfectly-smooth singletrack, this loop follows the shoreline of the Twin Lakes, meaning there’s very little elevation gain or loss.

The views, on the other hand, are out of this world! Mount Elbert, the tallest mountain in the state of Colorado, towers above the lakes, with a host of other 14ers forming a crescent of jagged peaks. In the fall, the leaves of the aspen trees turn a beautiful gold and snow dusts the top of the neighboring mountains.

While the trail is indeed non-technical, it is still of fabulous quality! Narrow singletrack dips and turns along the lakeshore, and a couple of rocks here and there provide a change of pace.

The Colorado Trail also runs concurrently with about half of this loop, and at least two campgrounds accessible from this loop provide great options for staying overnight.

Not up to the entire loop? Try an out-and-back up the southern lakeshore from the parking area near the dam.

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.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

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

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between April and November

Features

  • Flow
  • Road sections
  • Roots
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area