Strand Hill Trail Review: A Hidden Gem in Crested Butte, Colorado

Overview

Located in Crested Butte, Colorado, the Strand Hill Trail is an exhilarating ride with stunning views. Offering both climb and descent, this 7-mile loop has made quite an impression on local and visiting riders alike.

Accessibility and Location

Getting to the trail is a bit of a challenge, especially for non-locals. From town, one can take Highway 135 for two miles south, and then make a left onto Brush Creek Road. The trailhead isn't straightforward and may require some navigation. Parking is available at pseudo-trailheads, where one can leave their vehicle and follow a jeep road for several climbs to finally reach the trail.

Trail Description

• Distance: 7 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop

The trail presents a big loop with a bail-out option for those who find the steep climbs daunting. On the way up, riders will encounter steep and rutted sections until hitting the singletrack. Once that threshold is crossed, the views are nothing short of amazing.For the downhills, Strand Hill offers some of the best flowy descents in the area, rarely crowded compared to its popular neighbor, the 401 Trail. Expect a fast, non-technical ride through wildflower meadows, with awe-inspiring mountain vistas.

What Riders Are Saying

Rider experiences vary, but the consensus is that the Strand Hill Trail provides a satisfying mix of challenges and rewards:

• Downhill Fun: Many riders emphasize the terrific downhill ride through forests and meadows.
• Strenuous Climbs: The ride up features steep and sometimes rutted sections, making for a strenuous climb.
• Scenic Beauty: The wildflower-speckled hills and views of surrounding peaks like Condrum, Teocalli, and Castle Mountains make the climb worth the effort.
• Trail Conditions: While not highly technical, the trail does include some rocky and root-filled sections, especially on the downhill.

Additional Tips

• Traffic: This trail is popular but not overly crowded. However, caution is advised, as some riders tend to speed downhill.
• Weather: Crested Butte is known for its frequent rains, so packing rain gear is advisable.
• Alternate Routes: Sometimes the road leading to Strand Hill is closed due to ranch activities. In that case, one can take the Canal Trail to the Strand Bonus option, providing more singletrack and a different riding experience.

Final Thoughts

Strand Hill Trail offers a ferocious climb but rewards riders with an exhilarating downhill experience. The scenic beauty is a cherry on top, making it a must-ride for any intermediate-level mountain biker visiting Crested Butte.