Arapahoe Basin may be known for its legendary winter terrain, but when the snow melts, this high-alpine destination transforms into a mountain biker's paradise. Located along Colorado's scenic Continental Divide and driving distance from Denver, A-Basin offers riders access to challenging trails with breathtaking views and technical terrain that rewards those willing to put in the work. For those searching for exceptional mountain biking near Colorado Springs or mountain biking near Denver, A-Basin delivers an authentic backcountry-style riding experience...and did we mention it's totally free?
Distinctive Riding Philosophy
At A-Basin, we embrace a different approach. Here, the journey up is considered as important as the descent. The mountain doesn't offer bike haul on lifts, rentals, or beginner trails. Instead, it invites experienced riders to power their own adventures, climbing to elevations over 12,500 feet before enjoying thrilling descents through alpine terrain. This "earn your turns" ethos creates a unique riding experience that attracts cyclists looking for both physical challenge and natural rewards.
Trail Network Highlights
The Beavers Loop Trail
The newest jewel in A-Basin's trail network is The Beavers Loop Trail, a bike-only directional descent that offers three miles of high-alpine, backcountry-style riding. Starting at 12,500 feet adjacent to the top terminal of The Beavers Lift, this trail drops 1,000 feet through spectacular terrain. While not designed as a downhill jump trail, it delivers a technical, flowing experience for intermediate to advanced riders.
For those seeking a longer adventure, connecting The Beavers Loop with Wheels Up creates a continuous five-mile descent from summit to base. To access this trail, riders must first conquer the climb via Argentine North Fork, Up at Arapahoe, and the Upper Summer Road.
Argentine North Fork
This two-mile primary singletrack serves as A-Basin's main climbing route. Beginning near the Aerial Adventure Park in the base area, Argentine North Fork ascends 700 feet to the Black Mountain Lodge at mid-mountain. The trail winds through wildflower-dotted landscapes with scenic vistas and crystal-clear mountain streams. It's important to note this trail is designated uphill-only for bikes, preserving the experience for both cyclists and hikers sharing the path.
Wheels Up Trail
Purpose-built for mountain bikes, this two-mile downhill-only flow trail descends 669 feet from mid-mountain to the base area. Wheels Up features berms, rollers, and optional lines that create a playground effect for riders. While all features can be rolled, making it suitable for intermediate cyclists, advanced riders will particularly enjoy the creative line choices and flow. Access requires climbing the Argentine North Fork Trail to the Black Mountain Express Lift top terminal.
Perfect Addition to Your Summer Mountain Vacation
When planning your summer mountain vacation in Colorado, A-Basin's trail system offers a refreshing challenge compared to more developed bike parks. The mountain's higher elevation provides cooler temperatures during hot summer months, making it an ideal destination when lower trails might be too warm for comfortable riding. After a day conquering the trails, riders can relax at the 6th Alley Bar & Grill, sharing stories of their alpine adventures while taking in magnificent mountain views.
Finding Mountain Biking Trails Near Me
For Front Range residents searching for "mountain biking trails near me" or visitors wondering "where's the best mountain biking near me," A-Basin offers a compelling option. Located approximately 68 miles from Denver and about 125 miles from Colorado Springs, it's accessible for day trips or as part of a longer mountain stay. The trails here provide a distinctive high-alpine experience that complements the more developed trail systems found closer to urban areas.
Beyond A-Basin's Boundaries
The mountain also serves as a gateway to legendary backcountry riding. The Lenawee Trail, accessible from A-Basin's summit, offers experienced riders a challenging 3.3-mile black-diamond descent that drops off the backside of the mountain. This technical route ends at County Road 260/Peru Creek Road, requiring shuttle arrangements or a significant road ride to complete a loop.
Road cyclists aren't forgotten either. A-Basin sits just below Loveland Pass, offering access to an iconic category 1 climb that combines an 8-mile winding ascent with an exhilarating downhill along the Continental Divide.
Important Considerations
A-Basin's trails start at elevations near 11,000 feet and climb significantly higher, making proper acclimation and hydration essential. The mountain's weather can change rapidly, so riders should prepare with appropriate gear and layers.
E-bikes are currently not permitted on A-Basin's singletrack trails per U.S. Forest Service regulations, including the Lenawee Trail. They may only be ridden on the Summer Road, where users must watch for vehicles.
When venturing beyond A-Basin's operating boundary on trails like Lenawee, riders should note that mountain patrol services are not available. Proper preparation, self-sufficiency, and riding within one's abilities become even more crucial in these areas.
For those looking to experience all that "Not-Winter" has to offer at A-Basin, the Summer Pass provides access to the mountain's numerous warm-weather activities at significant savings. Beyond our mountain bike trails, summer at A-Basin features hiking, disc golf, a breathtaking via ferrata and the Aerial Adventure Park. Reserve your Summer Pass today!
Whether you're seeking high-alpine technical challenges or scenic climbs with rewarding views, Arapahoe Basin offers a distinctive mountain biking experience that emphasizes the journey as much as the destination.
