Exploring Silverdale: A Ghost Town Turned Mountain Biking Haven

Overview

If an unconventional mountain biking experience is on your wish list, the trails of Silverdale near Georgetown, Colorado, have got you covered. Once a ghost town, the remnants of its streets and an old railroad grade now serve as a gritty playground for mountain bikers. With no official trail system, Silverdale offers around a mile of premium single track that remains relatively uncharted. Though categorized as an intermediate level network of trails spanning about 2 miles, this is a spot that encourages exploration.

Key Details

• Distance: 2 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Network
• City: Georgetown
• State: Colorado

Getting There: From Denver, take I-70 west and exit at Georgetown (Exit 228). Follow signs to Guanella Pass Road and after 2 miles, just past the first reservoir, take the first left. Park near the footbridge.

Trail Experience

How to Navigate

• Starting Point: After crossing the footbridge, take the first right and climb a couple of short hills.
• Trail Route: On reaching the power line, turn left to find the single track. The trail runs generally under the power line and may be hard to spot at times.

The Terrain

• Power Line Section: About a mile of premium single track is available here.
• Trail Visibility: Due to less frequent use, the trail can be hard to spot in some places.
• Challenge: Reports suggest that it's possible to climb to the top of Saxton Mountain, although completing this has proven difficult.

Comments and Recommendations

• Family-Friendly Options: A few smooth trails make it a good area for family rides.
• Variety: Offers different flavors of trails. More than just one route exists.
• Challenge: Getting here via Raspberry provides a good climbing challenge.
• Risky Descend: A trail that descends steeply to Georgetown exists but is not recommended for beginners.

Conclusion

Silverdale is not your conventional, well-marked mountain biking locale. It's a place for adventurers who don’t mind improvising and exploring lesser-known trails. The area provides a good mix of trails for a short, fun, non-serious biking experience. Though not replete with technical or downhill features, it’s an area where one’s imagination can make up for what’s missing in the landscape. Many thanks go out to Clear Creek Trail Association for keeping these trails in rideable condition. Whether you're up for a serious ride or looking for a fun day out with the kids, Silverdale has something for everyone.