FATMAP by Strava

Tiehack Lollipop

Fairplay

Salida

A smooth, scenic run just outside of Fairplay.

Trail Running Moderate

Distance
8.4 km
Ascent
261 m
Descent
261 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
3.1 km
High Point
3.3 km
Gradient
Tiehack Lollipop Map

Tiehack is a historic singletrack trail located just outside the town of Fairplay in the South Park Ranger District of the Pike-San Isabel National Forest. While Tiehack isn't the best singletrack trail in the South Park Valley, this easily-accessible trail is a longtime locals' favorite that provides access to the beautiful forests and foothills of the Mosquito Range.

Description

The route begins by slowly climbing up a mellow hill on mostly non-technical singletrack. All of the grades on this route are quite mellow, making for easy hiking. If you're trail running, these climbs and descents are all very runnable. If you've spent all summer punishing yourself in the steep mountains, these mellow grades might offer a bit of a relief come fall!

At the main junction, this route takes a right to keep climbing on singletrack before hitting a gravel road. After taking a left on the road, there's a bit steeper climb before another left turn onto the singletrack descent. Following the loop part of the lollipop in this way provides the maximum amount of singletrack descending. Alternatively, if you want to climb the singletrack and descend the road, reverse the loop. Or, for an out-and-back option, take the left turn, hike or run to the road, and then retrace your steps.

The descent back to the trailhead is mellow, mostly non-technical, and incredibly scenic. Trail runners will really be able to open up their stride and fly down these hills, while hikers will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the valley below and the whispering aspen trees all around.

Difficulty

Moderate

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 June and October

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