Cycling the Royal Gorge Trails: An Adventure with a View

Overview

Nestled in the rugged landscape of Canon City, Colorado, the Royal Gorge Trails offer a unique blend of captivating views and a biking experience that can best be described as "entertainingly intermediate." With around 8 miles of trails for cyclists to explore, the network presents a delightful mix of cross-country rides, slight technical challenges, and awe-inspiring vistas of the Royal Gorge. Here's what you can expect.

Trail Specifics

• Distance: 8 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• Location: Canon City, Colorado

The Trail Experience

The Ride

The trails here are predominantly easy to intermediate, featuring mild grades that make the paths easily navigable. Though not overly technical, the singletrack incorporates natural rock features to keep the ride engaging. Expect downhills ranging from a quarter to nearly a mile in length. The flow is rhythmic, allowing riders to enjoy the experience fully.

Stunning Scenery

One of the standout features of this trail network is its proximity to the Royal Gorge. The singletrack teases the edge of the gorge multiple times, serving up jaw-dropping views that could easily steal the show. This alone makes the journey worth it, amplifying the overall experience.

Additional Tips

• Trail Signage: Well-placed signs at trail intersections make navigation straightforward.
• Park Experience: While biking, you'll occasionally ride alongside campgrounds and cross roads, reminding you that you're in a park.
• Best Time to Visit: Trail conditions were reported to be dry as of November 18, 2017.
• Rating: Most riders give it a solid 3 out of 5, though some argue it merits a 3.75.

Local Insights

For those who want to elevate their ride, consider setting up a shuttle system. Ride through the park and then jump on the Royal Cascade Trail at the far southeast end. This offers a different kind of exhilaration, markedly enhancing the ride. Big thanks to Scott 1&2 at the Red Canyon Cycles on 410 Main in Canon City for their insights and assistance.

Future Developments

The trail system is under active development. A full-time machine operator was reportedly hired for the summer of 2017, suggesting rapid expansion. Current maps also show dashed lines indicating future trails, making it a promising locale for repeated visits.

Conclusion

Whether you're chasing adrenaline or scenic vistas, the Royal Gorge Trails offer something for every intermediate rider. Combining enjoyable terrain with spectacular views, this is one trail network that should not be missed.