The Copper Triangle: A Grueling Yet Rewarding Ride through Copper Mountain

Overview: Not for the Faint-Hearted

Traversing a whopping 30 miles with rugged terrains and stunning vistas, the Copper Triangle ride in Copper Mountain, Colorado, is not your average bike trail. With five to six miles above the treeline, the looped route presents a series of challenges even for experienced riders. This trail is undoubtedly an epic adventure, yet requires thorough preparation and navigation.

How to Get Started

Getting There

• Take I-70 into the mountains and exit towards Copper Mountain.
• Park in any of the numerous parking lots in Copper Village.

Trail Features: A Melting Pot of Terrains

• Distance: 30 miles
• Level: Very Difficult
• Route Type: Loop
• City: Copper Mountain
• State: Colorado

Initial Climb: Switchbacks and Horse Hoofprints

The trail starts near the American Eagle chairlift in Copper Village. A dirt road switchbacks up the hillside, eventually transforming into a singletrack portion marked with a white rock. Despite being heavily used by horses, the trail stays in good condition, leading to the Guller Creek crossing and a long open valley.

Above Treeline: Where the Real Challenge Begins

Hiking your bike up to Searle Pass (12,035 ft, 7 mi) signals that you're entering the challenging above-treeline portion. Before moving forward to Kokomo Pass, make sure to check the weather; being caught in a thunderstorm at this elevation is risky.

The Downhill Rush: A Roller Coaster on Two Wheels

Beyond Kokomo Pass begins a thrilling 3,000-foot vertical descent to Camp Hale, complete with rolling singletrack, fast double track, switchbacks, and loose technical sections.

User Reviews: Praises and Precautions

• "Difficult climbing, very fast and technical downhill. A long, steep climb that kicks your butt."
• "Be cautious with the directions after Camp Hale; got dangerously lost due to unclear instructions."
• "Prepare for steep, technical, and some hike-a-bike sections. The trail is well-marked until Camp Hale."
• "Amazing views, especially between Searle Pass and Kokomo Pass. An epic, memorable ride."

Navigational Challenges: Beware after Camp Hale

While the trail is well-marked up to Camp Hale, a number of riders reported navigational difficulties thereafter. Specific issues arose around Ptarmigan Pass, where the trail instructions can be misleading. One should watch out for an unmarked trail dropping off to the right at Wilder Gulch.

Concluding Thoughts: An Epic Trail with a Caveat

The Copper Triangle serves up an intense, thrilling biking experience. However, it's crucial to prepare for the arduous climbs and the tricky navigation post-Camp Hale. Consider bringing extra food, water, and possibly GPS to avoid any pitfalls on this must-ride trail.