Marshall Mesa Area

Marshall Mesa Trail: Boulder's Gateway to Mountain Biking

Overview

Nestled in the vicinity of Boulder, Colorado, the Marshall Mesa Trail offers an intriguing blend of accessibility, scenic beauty, and relative ease for cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels. Spanning approximately 16 miles as an Out & Back route, it serves as an appealing choice for riders seeking less strenuous terrain and a chance to ride under the moonlight.

Getting There

To reach this two-wheeler's haven, commence from the intersection of Broadway & Baseline in Boulder and head south on Highway 93 toward Golden. After a 4-mile stretch, take a left turn and park your vehicle in the lot just east of Highway 93. The trailhead will greet you at the junction of Highway 93 and 170, also known as Eldorado Springs Drive/Marshall Mesa Drive.

Trail Experience

• Terrain: A mix of single and double track
• Elevation: Minimal climbs, not very steep
• Technicality: Generally beginner-level, some intermediate rocky areas
• Trail Conditions: Exposed, with some muddy patches
• Views: Beautiful panoramas of the Flatirons
• Accessibility: Convenient to Boulder area, tunnel construction under Hwy 93 in progress

For the Novices and Families

Marshall Mesa Trail has emerged as a great starting point for beginners and families. In fact, many parents are seen guiding their young novices through the trail’s minor challenges, making it a valuable introductory experience. One particularly enjoyable part is the Doudy Draw, offering a bit more technical riding as you descend.

Intermediate Riders Beware!

Though largely catering to beginners, the last quarter of the trail (if ridden clockwise) does feature rocky terrains and eroded stairs that could require some skill to navigate. The northern side of the loop can also be muddy, although it has been closed for this reason for some time.

Fun Factor and Versatility

Despite its straightforwardness, the trail offers enough room to play. Fast downhill sections and gravelly patches add a different flavor to your ride. For those looking for more than just a bike ride, the trail connects to other area trails, making it a nice warm-up option.

Seasonal and Time-of-Day Tips

The trail remains largely exposed throughout, so opt for a cloudy day or load up on sunscreen if riding during the day. However, if you're looking for something unique, a full moon ride can be a mesmerizing experience. During winters, the trail turns into a good fat bike ride opportunity, as it gets tracked down fairly quickly.

Bonus Points: Night Rides and Accessibility

The trail is notably enchanting during night rides. Also, good news for riders bothered by the dangerous section crossing Hwy 93: a tunnel is under construction to make that section safer.

Verdict

Marshall Mesa may not offer the thrills of advanced mountain biking, but it does serve as an inviting canvas for novices and families. The added advantage of its proximity to Boulder and its adaptability to various riding moods makes it a worthwhile venture. A reliable choice for those just starting off, or even for seasoned riders looking for a quick, accessible trail to spin their wheels.