Mountain Biking in Salida
Salida, Colorado, is known for its fantastic mountain biking trails and facilities, attracting biking enthusiasts from around the world.
From Salida RV Resort, simply go out our main entrance, turn left (east and north away from the river), and you will find yourself entering a vast trail network right from the park. Additionally, there are numerous other trailheads located a short distance away, offering a wide variety of trails suitable for beginners to experts. The Links below connect to many trail maps for all ages and skill levels
If you're looking to explore downtown Salida by Bike - it's just a convenient 20-minute ride north to the heart of Salida. There are two ways to get there:
A Little more adventurous – Turn Left out of our main gate along the dirt road and follow the double track trails going north along the east side of the river. This scenic route allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area as you make your way towards the heart of the town.
Alternatively on pavement – Turn Right out of the main resort entrance and cross over the river on the bridge. Turn right along hwy 50 about 1000 feet taking your first right turn again, then proceed along the residential road beside the river heading north into town. Both routes are similar distance and time.
Here's an overview of the mountain biking scene in Salida:
1. Trails: Salida offers an extensive network of diverse mountain biking trails suitable for riders of all skill levels. Some popular trails include:
- Monarch Crest Trail: This world-renowned trail is a must-ride for experienced bikers. It offers breathtaking views, challenging descents, and high-alpine riding.
- Arkansas Hills Trail System: Located near downtown Salida, this trail system offers a variety of loops and singletrack trails suitable for different skill levels. Riders can enjoy scenic views of the Arkansas River and the surrounding mountains.
- Salida Mountain Trails: This trail network consists of numerous interconnected trails offering a mix of technical challenges, flowy descents, and stunning vistas. Examples include the South Backbone Trail and the Spiral Drive Trail.
- Methodist Mountain Trails: Situated on the eastern edge of Salida, these trails provide a mix of moderate to advanced riding. They offer thrilling descents and technical features with beautiful views of the town and the Arkansas River Valley.
- Sovereign Trail: Located near nearby Poncha Springs, this trail system offers an exhilarating riding experience with technical features, slickrock sections, and stunning high desert landscapes.
2. Facilities and Services: Salida has several bike shops and rental outlets that provide services catering to mountain bikers. They offer bike rentals, repairs, gear, and equipment, ensuring riders have access to the necessary resources for an enjoyable biking experience. Additionally, there are guided tours available for those who want to explore the trails with the assistance of knowledgeable local guides.
3. Events and Community: Salida has a vibrant mountain biking community, with numerous events and races taking place throughout the year. The annual Salida Bike Fest celebrates all things biking, including group rides, races, bike films, and social gatherings. The community is welcoming and supportive, making it easy for riders to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share their passion for mountain biking.
4. Trail Advocacy and Maintenance: Salida is fortunate to have dedicated organizations and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain and improve the trail systems. Groups such as Salida Mountain Trails and the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association (GARNA) are involved in trail advocacy, maintenance, and the development of new trails, ensuring that the biking infrastructure remains in great shape for riders to enjoy.
Whether you're a beginner looking for scenic trails or an experienced rider seeking adrenaline-pumping descents, Salida offers a range of mountain biking experiences. With its extensive trail networks, supportive community, and stunning natural surroundings, Salida has earned its reputation as a premier mountain biking destination in Colorado.
To obtain trail maps for mountain biking in Salida, you have several options:
1. Local Bike Shops: Visit one of the bike shops in Salida, such as Absolute Bikes, Subculture Cyclery, or Salida Bike Company. They often have trail maps available for purchase or may provide them for free. Additionally, the staff at these shops are usually knowledgeable about the trails in the area and can offer recommendations based on your skill level and preferences.
2. Online Resources: Check the websites of local trail advocacy organizations, such as Salida Mountain Trails https://salidamountaintrails.org/ or the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association https://garna.org/. These organizations often provide digital versions of trail maps that you can download and print.
3. Visitor Information Centers: Stop by the Salida Chamber of Commerce or the Arkansas Valley Adventure Visitor Center. They typically have brochures and maps available that include mountain biking trails in the area.
4. Mobile Apps: There are various mobile applications specifically designed for outdoor activities and trail maps. Apps like Trailforks, MTB Project, and AllTrails provide detailed trail maps, descriptions, and user reviews for mountain biking trails in the Salida area.
Remember that trail conditions and routes can change over time, so it's a good idea to verify the information on the maps with local experts or trail organizations before heading out. Additionally, always practice responsible trail usage and respect any posted regulations or closures to ensure a safe and enjoyable mountain biking experience.