39
riders
4
rides
Mountain bike trails around Brookside feature a diverse landscape, primarily characterized by rugged terrain and significant elevation changes. The region offers a mix of challenging climbs and descents, often traversing through varied natural environments. Mountain biking in this area provides opportunities to explore extensive trail networks with notable elevation gains. The topography includes areas with substantial uphill sections, catering to riders seeking demanding experiences.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
2
riders
81.9km
06:55
1,600m
1,600m
Mountain bike the difficult 50.9-mile Shelf Road from Canon City to Cripple Creek, gaining 5257 feet along a historic scenic byway.
18
riders
29.2km
02:47
560m
560m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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7
riders
35.9km
03:25
730m
730m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
6
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
6
riders
19.4km
01:49
330m
330m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Popular around Brookside
The Arkansas River Trail is a 5.6 mile loop on both sides of the Arkansas River. The trail is paved and mostly flat, so it is not a challenging trail. There are great views of the river for most of the trail.
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Shelf Road is an old stage coach route that connects Canon City with Cripple Creek. It is incredibly scenic with breathtaking views at almost every corner. It's a long climb up to Cripple Creek with an elevation gain of 3000ft, but the way back down is absolutely magic.
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There is a spectacular view of Spiney Ridge as you descend down Shelf Road. It is a popular place for climbing and really takes your breath away when it comes into view.
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Known in the late 19th century as 'the world's greatest gold camp', Cripple Creek sprang to life when gold was discovered here in 1890. At its height, it was home to over 500 mines. It is now famous for its both historic and new casinos. You'll find plenty of places to eat, drink and stay in the city.
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Known in the late 19th century as 'the world's greatest gold camp', Cripple Creek sprang to life when gold was discovered here in 1890. At its height it was home to over 500 mines. It is now famous for its both historic and new casinos. You'll find plenty of places to eat, drink and stay in the city.
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This trail goes between rock formations and small canyons, leading you through a variety of different terrains through rolling hills, with nice views of the outskirts of Cañon City.
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Beautiful, easy and flat walk along the Arkansas River. The trail starts in downtown Cañon City, but has peaceful areas to chill, with some benches and picnic tables.
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A beautiful trail above the Arkansas River with views of the surrounding canyon. It leads through several tunnels. Unfortunately we could not continue the trail because it is closed in early summer due to the offspring of protected animals. But even the short section is worth it.
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Komoot features a selection of 4 mountain bike trails around Brookside. These routes offer diverse experiences, from moderate rides to more challenging adventures.
The mountain bike trails in Brookside offer varied terrain, often characterized by wooded environments, undulating topography, and singletrack configurations. You can expect a mix of natural surfaces and some trails may incorporate features like jumps or log ride-overs, providing a dynamic riding experience.
Yes, Brookside offers several challenging routes for experienced mountain bikers. For instance, the Cripple Creek from Canon City on the Shelf Road route is a difficult 81.8 km ride with over 1600 meters of elevation gain, providing a significant test of endurance and skill. Other difficult options include Redemption Trail loop from Royal Gorge Route Railroad and Redemption Trail loop from Temple Canyon Overlook.
Yes, there is a moderate mountain bike trail available. The Tunnel Drive Trail – Arkansas River Trail loop from Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a 20.4 km ride with over 160 meters of elevation gain, suitable for those looking for a less strenuous but still engaging experience.
Many trails in Brookside pass through scenic natural areas. You might encounter wooded trails, creeks, and varied topography. Specific highlights near some routes include the Tunnel Drive Trail itself, and the Arkansas River Trail. You can also find viewpoints like Fremont Peak in the vicinity.
Beyond the trails, you can explore areas like Main Street – Downtown Canon City, which offers a glimpse into local life. The region's natural beauty, including state parks and preserves, provides additional opportunities for engagement with nature.
Yes, several routes in Brookside are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Redemption Trail loop from Royal Gorge Route Railroad, Redemption Trail loop from Temple Canyon Overlook, and Redemption Trail loop from B.F. Rockafellow Ecology Park.
Elevation gains vary significantly depending on the trail. Some routes, like the Cripple Creek from Canon City on the Shelf Road, feature substantial climbs of over 1600 meters. Other trails, such as the Tunnel Drive Trail – Arkansas River Trail loop from Royal Gorge Route Railroad, have more moderate ascents around 160 meters, making them suitable for different fitness levels.
Many mountain biking destinations in the Brookside area, especially those within county parks or near towns, typically offer designated parking areas at or near trailheads. It's advisable to check specific park or trail information for detailed parking instructions before your visit.
The best time to go mountain biking in Brookside generally depends on the specific location and local climate. However, spring and fall often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but be mindful of potential heat, while winter riding might be possible in some areas depending on snow and ice conditions.
While the guide primarily features moderate to difficult trails, some areas in Brookside are known for offering a range of experiences, including easier sections suitable for beginners or families. The Tunnel Drive Trail – Arkansas River Trail loop from Royal Gorge Route Railroad is a moderate option that might be suitable for families with some riding experience, offering a relatively flat profile.


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