When I started writing this post, I was surprised at how challenging it was to find beginner trails in Colorado. Thanks to the power of Trailforks, finding the top trails anywhere in the world is easier than ever. This can lead beginner riders astray real quick! Many of the trails I found were primarily used to access to other terrain or sandwiched between advanced trails making them not realistic for a true beginner ride. Take for example Whippletree in Whiteranch, one of the top-rated beginner trails in Colorado. For anyone who has ridden White Ranch, you know that the only way to get to Whippletree is a slog up Belcher Hill or a descent down Longhorn which are about as far as you can get from beginner-friendly.
As I combed through the list of top-rated beginner trails, I found trail after trail to be like Whippletree. A true beginner trail should have an easy approach, smooth and flowing terrain, with optional features to challenge the rider. Also, it should have minimal climbing and not really extend beyond 5 miles. These trails I’ve identified have those attributes and more. They are part of trail networks with a high ratio of beginner and intermediate terrain, so beginner riders aren’t stuck riding the same trail over and over again. It doesn’t come as a surprise that Fruita tops the list for beginner mountain bike trails. The 18 Road area is full of short beginner-friendly trails that are perfect for learning and progression. Just across the interstate is Kokopelli Loops which has an iconic beginner ride of it’s own.
Kessel Run
- Fruita, 18 Road
- 2 miles
- 437 ft of descent
The Kessel Run is a smooth, flowing trail with a few optional technical sections! It’s great for kids too since it is only 2 miles in length and all downhill. This trail is directional, making it easy for beginners to navigate without the worry of oncoming traffic. There are optional tech features along the trail for riders looking to challenge themselves. Once riders have built up confidence on Kessel Run, they can head over to PBR for a fun and easy intermediate trail to challenge themselves!
Rustlers Loop
- Fruita, Kokopelli Loops
- 3.5 miles
- 289 ft of climb and descent
Rustlers Loop can be found on the other side of I-70 from 18 Road at the Kokopelli Loops area. Along the trail, riders will find educational signs with information on riding techniques and etiquette. It is suggested to ride in a clockwise direction via the local trail organization. Rustlers Loop is one of the few beginner trails in Colorado that can be ridden as a loop without involving any intermediate trails. Riders can experience the beautiful red rocks and interesting geology similar to Moab, without the Whole Enchilada gnarliness!
Beginners unfortunately get the short end of the stick when it comes to trails built for them. Fruita and Kokopelli Loops are two of the best options we have in the state when it comes to beginner trails. They set up the riders for success and provide plenty of options for progression through optional trail features and a plethora of surrounding intermediate terrain. So, what do you think? Are there better options for beginners in Colorado? Let us know in the comments!
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