Nederland trails high, dry

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Nederland trails high, dry

As fall approaches and many mountain trails become wet or muddy, the spaghetti-like network south of Nederland lies in a dry forest with a surface that absorbs moisture.

As seen on the map, the whole area is a web of biking options. Adding to the mix, trails vary from narrow single track to wide single track, from obscure roads to well-traveled forest roads.

The described route may be hard to follow at times and there are even more trails, too numerous to show on the map. But you can't get lost for long as the area is bordered by private property and closed roads. Take time to explore and invent a custom route of your own.

If you go

Bicycle: Mountain bike.

Location: South of Nederland west of Highway 119.

Surface: Smooth wide and narrow single track/dirt road mix with few rocks.

Distance: Described loop is 4.1 miles with more options available.

Difficulty: Easy with only a few moderate sections.

Ride Time: One to two hours.

To reach Magnolia Road: From Nederland, head south on Highway 119/72 for about 2 miles. At CR 132, park at the large turnout on the west side of the road. Ride the signed trail going straight into the woods.

Map of the ride

Other rides

-Miller Rock: Beautiful, rolling single-track riding is had the first two miles with only a handful of moderate rock obstacles. But the trail lies 20 to 40 feet above the South Saint Vrain Creek and this exposure can make walking an acceptable activity. At 2.1 miles, a steep climb begins to Miller Rock. It is difficult, with rock-filled ruts coated with a slippery granite dust. Go right at 2.6 miles to a road climbing to Miller Rock. Look for an unmarked single-track trail at 3.1 to complete a loop. Check your brakes as the descent is equally steep, technical and slippery. From Nederland, drive 4.3 miles north on CO 72. Turn right on CR 94 and go past Glacier View Guest Ranch. A road-side sign leads to a parking area and the trail head.

-Sugarloaf Trail: This out-and-back ride gently climbs west traversing south-facing slopes. At just above 8,000 feet, the wide road gets good sunlight exposure year round. From numerous high vantage points along this route, views of distant mountain peaks and valleys are abundant. From Boulder take Canyon 119 west. One mile after passing through a tunnel, turn right on Sugarloaf Road 5.4 miles from Boulder. Continue climbing for five more miles to Sugarloaf Mountain Road. Go right for 0.9 miles to park at the trail head. Ride the road going left.

Ted Crawford's column is available online at RockyMountainNews.com.

October 6, 2000

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