Heil Valley Ranch

Closest Major City: Boulder

Distance: 7.50 miles (12.07 KM)

Description:
This is a not-so-technical trail. It does have quite a few loose rocks, but hey, it's Colorado. The trail starts with a small fire-road climb. It then starts on the single track through a meadow, leading to a short climb. From there, you start with a light climb, for about 2 miles. This is all singletrack, and isn't very steep. There are some mud holes after rains, though, but nothing very long. After the two miles, you get to the start of a 2.5 mile loop (forgot the name) that takes you around the top of the hill. It does have a scenic stop halfway through. Stop there, give it a Chevy Chase, and make tracks for the bottom. The way down can be fast, but ya gotta watch out for the hikers and horses. The better riders will be able to do it in about an hour, give or take, and it makes a great trail to tune-up with, or as an end-of-workout ride. Beginners will like the trail, because it has some climbing, and the trail is rocky enough for them to see what a mountain trail is like, just about anywhere in the state.

Directions to the trail:
Take 36 north out of Boulder. Take a left at Lefthand Canyon Road (right after the Greenbriar Inn). Go until you see the Heil Valley Ranch sign on your right. The trailhead is a short way up the canyon...ya can't miss it. Park, unload, and ride...have fun!!