Waterton Canyon Loop Bike Trail
Jefferson County, CO 80419
Phone:
- Directions:
- From C-470, exit at Wadsworth Boulevard and head south for 4.1 miles on Colorado Highway 121. Turn left at the Waterton Canyon sign, followed by an immediate right, into the large parking lot.
Editorial Review for Waterton Canyon Loop Bike Trail – by
The Trail
Pedal uphill on gravel road along the South Platte River to the Strontia Springs dam (6.1 miles). The grade gets steeper and the Colorado Trail joins at the left (6.5). Continue uphill on the Colorado Trail; it becomes a single-track (6.6) that climbs steadily. Switchback through the pines to the top of a ridge, where the Carpenter Peak Trail joins on the left (7.8).
The Descent
Take the narrow Carpenter Peak Trail south toward Roxborough State Park, climbing first through scrub oak, then descending through pines. A steep drop on a switchback brings you to Steven's Gulch, where the trail grade moderates. The trail heads north, crossing a creek twice (9), before gaining a low ridge. The trail drops from this ridge and winds its way to a trail intersection (10.1). Turn left and descend back to the dam, encountering a ledge drop-off where excellent skills are required, just before completing the single-track (11). Turn right at the road and speed back to the start (17).
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