The best MTB trails around Central City

Embark on the Apex Valley Road for a moderate mountain biking adventure through the Colorado mountainside. You will encounter varied terrain, including singletrack, doubletrack, and gravel sections, as the route winds past beautiful scenic views. This trail covers 6.8 miles (10.9 km) with a significant elevation gain of 1866 feet (569 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 39 minutes to complete.

When planning your ride, note that Apex Valley Road is a multi-use trail, so you might share the path with dirt bikes, ATVs, hikers, and even snowmobiles depending on the season. Dogs are welcome to join you on this route. For the best conditions and to fully enjoy the scenery, consider visiting between July and early October.

Adding a unique historical touch to your journey, the trail runs close to the historic town of Apex, which is now largely a ghost town. While the southern part of the road is generally well-maintained, be prepared for progressively rougher sections further north, where you will encounter ruts and bumpy, embedded rocky areas.

Get ready for a challenging mountain biking adventure on the Maryland Mountain loop, a difficult route spanning 8.2 miles (13.2 km). You will climb 1439 feet (439 metres) over an estimated 1 hour and 31 minutes, navigating re-forested mountain landscapes and exhilarating singletrack through pine forests. As you ride, you will encounter beautiful mountain views and panoramic vistas of Black Hawk and Central City. For an extra thrill, the Hard Money section offers optional jumps, drops, and rock gardens to test your skills.

Before you head out, know that the Maryland Mountain trail system is known for being wet-weather friendly; it drains well, so you will find minimal muddiness even after rain. Class 1 e-bikes are permitted on the trails, and your leashed dog is also welcome to join you on this ride. Always remember to check local conditions before starting your journey to ensure a smooth experience.

This route offers more than just a great ride; it also provides a glimpse into the region's rich history. Keep an eye out for historic mining artifacts scattered along the trail, including the Bonanza Mill and the Robert Emmet Mine. These remnants add a unique historical context to your mountain biking experience, connecting you with the past of Gilpin County.

The Portal and Outer Loop offers some of the best mountain bike trails in the Floyd Hill Open Space, winding through a rich forest and meadow ecosystem high above Clear Creek Canyon. You'll encounter demanding climbs and steep berms, with rocky sections testing your technical skills. As you push through the 6.8-mile (11.0 km) route, you'll be rewarded with scenic viewpoints on Portal and Outer Loop mountain biking route, including expansive vistas of the Front Range and glimpses of the Continental Divide.

Planning your visit means preparing for a difficult ride that typically takes around 1 hours and 17 minutes to complete, covering 1253 feet (382 metres) of elevation gain. The trailhead has a dedicated parking lot, making access easy, but it's wise to arrive early, especially on weekends, as this area is a popular escape from Denver. Always check trail conditions before you go, as the terrain can be challenging.

This trail system was specifically designed with mountain bikers in mind, featuring purpose-built elements that make it a fun downhill flow trail, even though it also serves as a significant climb. The larger Floyd Hill Open Space network, which includes this route, is known for its diverse trails catering to various skill levels, making it a standout destination for mountain biking in Colorado.