Soda Creek Loop: The Hidden Gem of Summit County's Singletrack

Overview

Dillon, Colorado, is not just another pin on the map for mountain biking enthusiasts. The Soda Creek Loop trail, located in the heart of this idyllic town, has rapidly gained notoriety for its mix of terrains and breathtaking landscapes.

• Distance: 15 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop
• City: Dillon, Colorado

The Ride Experience: From Singletrack to Scenery

Soda Creek Loop offers 15 miles of blissful singletrack that can be described as "smooth as a baby's bottom." While not too demanding on the technical side, the trail does provide some exciting elements. Expect a couple of climbs and a thrilling downhill segment complemented by plenty of twisty singletrack terrain. Many even claim that the downhill segment is reminiscent of the track from Pavilion Point down to Silver Plume, and in mountain biking terms, it doesn't get much better than that.

Navigation and Key Points

Starting at the Whispering Pines Trailhead, riders head south for about half a mile until reaching a gate, and from there, it's singletrack glory. Along the way, the trail intersects with others, like the iconic Colorado Trail, and even more specialized tracks like Red's Trail. Keep your eyes peeled for the "Blair Witch" area, an intriguing yet eerie part of the journey. After soaking in the experiences of these intersecting trails, you'll eventually loop back to the starting point via the Keystone Ranch and Aqueduct Trails.

When to Go and What to Expect

The trail is mostly dry towards the end of the riding season in early October, although patches of mud, snow, and ice are not uncommon. While the trail's signs can be a bit inconsistent in some lower sections, this loop is navigable for most with a decent sense of direction.

Recommendations and Tips

• If you're looking for an extension, connect Soda Creek Loop to Blair Witch or West Ridge.
• For newcomers, acquiring a map or GPS device for navigation is highly advised.
• The parking lot at the trailhead can fill up quickly; alternative starting points include Keystone Gulch or Dredge Boat Trailhead.

Public Opinion

The trail draws mixed reviews. For some, it's the perfect warm-up before hitting more challenging tracks like the Colorado Trail or Blair Witch. Others suggest that Soda Creek is great for novices looking for a taste of mountain biking without the technical challenges. However, a few consider it less exciting compared to other trails in Summit County.

Conclusion

Soda Creek Loop may not be the most technical or challenging ride out there, but it certainly has a unique allure. Its blend of terrains and connection to other iconic trails make it a must-try for anyone seeking a versatile mountain biking experience in Summit County.