Jones Downhill Trail: A Hidden Gem in Colorado Springs

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs, the Jones Downhill Trail offers an exhilarating mountain biking experience for riders of intermediate skill level. With 22 miles of varied terrain, including singletrack, forest roads, and steep descents, it's a route that keeps your wheels spinning and your heart racing.

How to Get There

• City: Colorado Springs
• State: Colorado
• Distance: 22 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop

Starting from Colorado Springs, take W. Cheyenne Blvd west. The access is from I-25 via exit 140A [US 25 S]—take a right onto Ramona, which turns into W Cheyenne Blvd. Just before reaching Seven Falls, make a right into North Cheyenne Canyon. Continue past Helen Hunt Falls until you hit the end of the paved road (approx. 2 miles) and park at the Gold Camp Rd parking lot. The trail commences at the rear of this parking lot.

The Route in Detail

From the Gold Camp Rd parking lot, initiate your journey by ascending the gravel road. It becomes less steep as you turn right onto Old Stage Rd. The real action starts around 12 miles in when you reach forest road 379 on your right—expect rocky technical sections and steep climbs. Switch to granny gears if needed; you've just conquered a 2000-feet elevation.The trail then morphs into Jones Downhill, marked as Trail 701. The initial stretch offers multiple whoop-te-doos and ridge riding. The singletrack is mostly fast and tight, eventually becoming a twisting chute with banked curves. Look out for the stunning Cheyenne Creek on your right and an old mine entrance on your left.When you reach the junction of trails 666 and 667, cross the creek to your right and head onto Jones Park Trail 667. Continue on this trail until you arrive at the High Drive parking lot. The final leg is a descent back to the Gold Camp Rd parking lot, completing a loop of a little over 10 miles.

What to Expect

• Fast and tight singletrack
• Multiple whoop-te-doos and ridge riding
• Rocky, technical sections
• Stunning scenery featuring Cheyenne Creek
• Optional shuttle ride for those who wish to skip the climb

Comments and Controversies

Riders have mixed feelings about recent trail work. Some lament the loss of the trail's original raw nature, blaming new changes for making parts of the trail resemble a "handicap bike path." Others are content with the upkeep but suggest checking trail conditions before your ride due to ongoing conflicts over what parts are open.

Final Thoughts

Jones Downhill Trail provides an unforgettable riding experience with plenty of ups, downs, and panoramic views. Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, this trail deserves a spot on your mountain biking bucket list. Despite the controversy over trail maintenance, the original raw nature of the ride is still largely preserved and is what keeps riders coming back for more.Remember, this trail offers an excellent shuttle option, but tackling the whole loop from the Gold Camp Rd parking lot delivers an especially rewarding ride. Either way, prepare for an adventure that will leave you craving more.Happy riding!