Midland Hills Trails

6 mi
Distance
707 ft
Elevation gain
Intermediate
Level
Point to point
Route type
0/5
Rating
#1818 place in the world
#6 place in the region
6 mi
Distance
707 ft
Elevation gain
Intermediate
Level
Point to point
Route type
0/5
Rating
#1818 place in the world
#6 place in the region

Midland Hills Trails: A Balanced Blend of Flow and Technicality

Overview

Situated in the scenic area of Buena Vista, Colorado, the Midland Hills Trails provide a 6-mile, point-to-point cycling experience. These singletrack trails branch out from the Collegiate Peaks Overlook, offering a mixture of flow and technical elements that make them an excellent choice for intermediate mountain bikers.

Key Trail Features

  • Distance: 6 miles
  • Difficulty Level: Intermediate
  • Route Type: Point to point
  • City: Buena Vista
  • State: Colorado

How to Get There

Parking is available at the Collegiate Peaks Overlook, although a fee is involved. Alternatively, free parking can be found at the upper Midland Trailhead.

Terrain and Obstacles: A Dynamic Fusion

  • Swooping Turns: These trails are ripe with swooping turns that add a thrilling dimension to the ride.
  • Rocks and Boulders: Be prepared for a variety of rocky obstacles, from small pebbles to larger boulders that challenge your skills.
  • Built-in Bypasses: Go-arounds are available for the more difficult features, particularly useful for those feeling fatigued.

Riding Experience: Cyclists' Insights

  • Many riders enjoy combining these trails with other routes like Django, Fistful of Dollars, and the updated Gentleman's Loop.
  • The trails are well-maintained with a decomposed granite surface providing excellent traction.
  • Despite a few double black sections where errors could prove painful, the overall difficulty level is intermediate, appropriate for most seasoned riders.
  • Cycling up these trails offers a manageable grade, making it possible but not necessarily the most fun. However, descending transforms the experience, making obstacles like rocks and turns much more enjoyable.

Recommendations for an Enriched Experience

  • Combine these trails with the Whipple trail system via the Midland trail for an extended adventure.
  • Make sure to stay on track; veering off could result in flat tires or environmental damage to the delicate flora.
  • It's a trail that offers something for everyone — from a relaxing spin to adrenaline-pumping descent.

Final Words: A Versatile Offering

The Midland Hills Trails offer something for everyone. For those in search of a solid, intermediate mountain biking experience, these trails offer just enough technicality without overwhelming. With the right combination of flow, obstacles, and scenery, these trails promise a rewarding day on two wheels. In summary, Midland Hills Trails are a well-balanced blend that should put a smile on the face of any intermediate mountain biker.

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