Tucked in under time-worn cliffs at Mesa Verde National Park are the crumbling cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo, an entirely evocative place that is readily explored on foot.
Elk Meadow, a Jefferson County open space area of several thousand acres, is a perfect location for beginner and intermediate level bikers to get a good workout in and become familiar with riding off road. Cooler than complexes closer to the Denver area in the warm summer months, the trails of Elk Meadow wind through stands of Ponderosa Pine and expanses of alpine meadow and grassland.
Most of the trails in the Elk Meadow area involve little elevation gain, with the exception of two moderately difficult trails that climb Bergen Mountain. The trails are mostly singletrack with only a few technical bits along the way so riders in the Elk Meadow area will be able to get a great spin in without tackling anything too grueling. Maps of the area are helpful and there is a stocked map box at the trailhead.
Details
Length:
up to 10 miles Two longer trails. Lots of shorter trails. Combine for desired length.
Difficulty:
Several more technical sections. Not much elevation gain.
Aerobic Difficulty:
Easy
Time To Allow:
2+ hours Time can be lengthened by adding trails along way
Season:
March - November
Additional Details:
While riding any trail system it is a great idea to include a repair kit and first aid kit. Elk Meadow Open Space’s trails are multi-use and hikers and horseback riders may be seen along the way. Please be considerate on the trails and understand right of way protocol.
We also have the following visitor guides in Colorado. Click on any additional guides you would like to receive.
Chaffee County Central Colorado
Chaffee County
Central ColoradoMore than 100 miles of the Arkansas River and her tributaries flow through the heart of Chaffee County, gracing both Salida and Buena Vista with her beauty and world-renowned whitewater, fly-fishing, scenery and river festivals. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Colorado Springs Central Colorado
Colorado Springs
Central ColoradoFind yourself in Colorado Springs at Pikes Peak. We have five historic trains to transport you back to the days of cowboys and gold mining. Endless trails allow you to enjoy the abundant sunshine and spectacular scenery. A family vacation in Colorado Springs is the smart choice – great lodging values, a long list of low-cost or no-cost activities, and adventure around every corner. Order your free guide today. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Grand Lake Rocky Mountain National Park
Grand Lake
Rocky Mountain National ParkWelcome to Grand Lake, the Wild Heart of Colorado's Wilderness. Nestled on the tranquil shores of Colorado's largest natural lake, Grand Lake exudes charm with its picturesque setting framed by majestic mountain peaks. Embraced by the stunning vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake, Colorado, serves as the perfect hub for outdoor escapades, cherished family moments, and unforgettable mountain experiences
-- Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Northwestern ColoradoWelcome to Colorado’s Great Northwest, Moffat County has nearly 2 million acres of public lands to explore. Experience places like Dinosaur National Monument, the Sand Wash Basin Wild Horse Management Area and free flowing rivers including the mighty Yampa, last of the wild ones! Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Red River Northern New Mexico
Red River
Northern New MexicoRed River, New Mexico! A place where fresh powder winters meet refreshing summer days. Red River offers something for everyone with its convenient scenic location in the heart of Northern New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle. Red River is the place that awakens us each day by the soothing sound of a rushing river and then again each evening as the sun sets over main street. The mountain town of Red River is New Mexico True. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Farmington Northwestern New Mexico
Farmington
Northwestern New MexicoNorthwestern New Mexico is known by many as a magical place. Four Corners and the local Aztec Ruins are considered sacred ground for some and are fascinating to visit. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
We also have visitor guides available in states highlighted in blue below. Click on any state to see what's available.
Alaska
Arizona
California
Canada
Colorado
Hawaii
Idaho
Michigan
Montana
Nevada
New Mexico
Ohio
Oregon
Texas
Utah
Washington
Wyoming
Switch to Mobile Browser Mode
We offer a compact version of Go-Colorado for mobile users, allowing you to access just the information you need on the road. Of course, you can still use the full version of Go-Colorado on your mobile device just as you can on your desktop.