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United States
Colorado
Fremont County

Brookside

The best MTB trails around Brookside

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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.

Best mountain bike trails around Brookside

  • The most popular mountain bike trail is Cripple Creek from…

Last updated: June 24, 2026

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riders

#1.

Cripple Creek from Canon City on the Shelf Road

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.

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Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Popular around Brookside

Hiking around Brookside

Cycling around Brookside

Tips from the Community

mtm05005
August 21, 2025, Arkansas River Trail

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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Natalie
December 14, 2023, Shelf Road

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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Natalie
December 14, 2023, View of Spiney Ridge

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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maniboyflex
September 7, 2023, Redemption Trail

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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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available in Brookside?

Komoot features a selection of 4 mountain bike trails around Brookside. These routes offer diverse experiences, from moderate rides to more challenging adventures.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Brookside?

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.

Are there trails suitable for advanced mountain bikers in Brookside?

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.

Are there any moderate mountain bike trails in Brookside?

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.

What natural features or landmarks can I see while mountain biking in Brookside?

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.

Are there any interesting places to explore near the mountain bike trails?

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.

Are there circular mountain bike routes available in Brookside?

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.

What are the elevation gains like on Brookside's mountain bike trails?

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.

Is parking available at the trailheads in Brookside?

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.

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Brookside?

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.

Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Brookside?

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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