Illinois Trail: Ice Rink to Blue River

Navigating the Illinois Trail: An Unassuming Gem in Breckenridge, Colorado

Introduction: What's in Store?

Tucked away in the bustling mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado, the Illinois Trail offers a versatile mountain biking experience that's perfect for squeezing in a quick after-work ride. Though overshadowed by some of the more iconic trails in the area, don't let its inconspicuous nature fool you. Spanning a distance of 7 miles, the trail offers a balanced blend of climbs, descents, and scenic views for intermediate-level bikers.

• Distance: 7 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Breckenridge, Colorado

Finding Your Way There

Finding your way to the trailhead is simple. Head south through town on Highway 9. As you reach the end of the town, make a left turn at the stoplight for Boreas Pass Road and park in the large lot east of the Ice Rink. The Illinois Trail sign is prominently displayed at the southeast corner of the parking lot.

Trail Description: Where Rubber Meets the Road

Once at the trailhead, two initial options present themselves: Illinois Creek High and Illinois Creek Low. The latter provides a more gradual ascent and both options loop back onto each other eventually. After crossing a paved road, pick up the marked Southside trail, which runs parallel to Highway 9. This section features moderately technical singletrack interrupted by brief but steep climbs.Riders then traverse the edge of a picturesque meadow before encountering a sustained climb on an ATV-width trail. After a flat section, the trail leads to a road where a quick right turn reveals the Blue River trail. From here, riders can enjoy a steep descent before crossing a creek and picking up the trail again. Multiple return options are available, either via the trail itself or the nearby roads leading back to Breckenridge.

A Trail of Two Faces

• Accessibility: Easy to locate and close to town.
• Variety: A great mix of climbs, flat sections, and descents.
• Terrain: A combination of buff, rooty, and rocky trails.
• Scenery: Gorgeous alpine forest and intermittent stunning vistas.

Trail Tips and Considerations

While the Illinois Trail may not be the star of the Breckenridge mountain biking scene, its proximity to the town and Highway 9 makes it easy to access. Though the trail may lack in detailed maps or guidebooks, it’s hard to get too lost given its closeness to civilization.

Good to Know:

• Maps: No fully accurate maps, but riders are always near Highway 9 or residential areas.
• Best For: Quick rides or as a warm-up for more challenging trails.

Final Verdict

The Illinois Trail is a hidden asset in Breckenridge, suitable for those looking for a shorter, less intense ride. The trail serves as an excellent introduction for riders eager to explore other routes in the region. Though it may not boast the grandeur of its more famous counterparts, its accessibility and variety make it well worth the ride.