Talon and Sundance Loop

The Talon and Sundance Loop is located within Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Parking is available at the park's main entrance. The trailheads are well-marked within the park.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, including the Talon and Sundance Loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for the most current regulations regarding pets in the park.

The trail is generally accessible from April to October. For cycling, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. In summer, you can enjoy wildflowers, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter conditions can make parts of the trail challenging or inaccessible due to snow and ice.

Yes, an entrance fee is typically charged for Cheyenne Mountain State Park. You can purchase a daily pass or an annual pass. Check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for current fee structures.

The Talon and Sundance Loop is generally considered moderate to easy for cycling, depending on the specific sections and your experience level. While the Sundance Trail portion is mostly flat, the Talon trail involves increasing elevation gain, with some sections being steeper and narrower. It's best suited for mountain bikes or sturdy gravel/hybrid bikes, as it's not ideal for traditional road touring cycling due to its unpaved terrain.

The terrain is varied, featuring natural, unpaved, and gravel paths. You'll cycle through mixed pine forests, lush meadowlands, and areas with granite outcrops. While lower sections can be wide and well-maintained, higher elevations, particularly on the North and South Talon sections, can become narrower and more technical.

You can expect breathtaking vistas of Cheyenne Mountain throughout the loop. The diverse ecosystem offers mixed forests and meadows. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, bears, and bighorn sheep. In summer, dozens of wildflower species bloom along the path. You might also catch unique views of the NORAD antennas on Cheyenne Mountain.

The full loop is about 14.2 kilometers (8.8 miles) long. On average, it takes approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete the loop by bicycle, depending on your pace and stops.

Yes, the route intersects with and incorporates sections of several other trails within Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Notable trails that are part of or connect to the loop include the Talon, Sundance, North Talon, South Talon Trail, and the Zook Loop.

The entire loop offers continuous views of Cheyenne Mountain. As you gain elevation, you'll find 360-degree views from higher points. The Zook Loop section is also a highlight. You'll also encounter diverse flora and fauna, and potentially wildlife, making the journey itself a feature.

While the loop can be ridden in either direction, some cyclists prefer to tackle the steeper, narrower climbs of the Talon sections first, enjoying a more 'flowy' descent. Consider starting early, especially on weekends, to ensure parking and a less crowded experience.