Fat Marmot Trail at Copper Mountain: A Speedy Descent with Technical Finesse

Overview: A Quick and Rewarding Ride

At Copper Mountain, Colorado, Fat Marmot Trail offers riders a chance to savor 2 miles of intermediate-level singletrack with enticing elevation changes. Nestled within Copper Mountain's expansive network of trails, Fat Marmot takes you on a brief yet adrenaline-pumping ride, featuring sweeping vistas and a series of switchbacks that test your technical skills.

Trail Essentials

• Distance: 2 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• City: Copper Mountain
• State: Colorado

Getting There

• Reach Copper Mountain base by taking the Copper Mountain exit on I70.

The Ride: High-Speed Thrills and Technical Challenges

Elevate Your Senses: Lift-assisted Climb and Descent

Riding the lift saves you some energy as you ascend to the beginning of the trail. From the lift's top, a moderate 300-foot climb takes you to Fat Marmot's peak. What follows is a descent of around 700 feet over a trail length of just under 2 miles.

Open Views and Zigzagging Trails

The trail initially traverses the mountain, offering generous views and enabling a fast pace. But as the ride progresses, you'll encounter a series of zigzagging switchbacks that present both opportunities and challenges.

Those Notorious Switchbacks

The last section of the trail features a couple of switchbacks that are notorious for their steep inclines and technical obstacles. While these may pose a challenge to less-experienced riders, most intermediates should find them doable but thrilling. This is where your mettle as a rider will be tested, but it's also where you'll find some of the trail's most rewarding moments.

Rider Reviews: A Mixed Bag

• "Stunning views, less crowded than Redtail."
• "Challenging switchbacks, especially for younger riders."
• "Some portions might be eroded, but they're absolutely rideable and add to the adventure."
• "A wish for more challenging and longer trails in the Copper network."

Final Take: A Short yet Stimulating Experience

Fat Marmot may not offer an epic length, but what it lacks in distance, it makes up for in the quality of the ride. The combination of high-speed sections, challenging switchbacks, and rewarding vistas make it a worthy addition to your Copper Mountain cycling itinerary. For those looking to up their game or simply enjoy a quick, satisfying jaunt, Fat Marmot is not to be overlooked.