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Mountain biking on the rise in Mesa Verde Country

  • Ron 

Mountain biking enthusiasts seeking the next great destination for their sport need look no further than Mesa Verde Country in Southwest Colorado. From single tracks to challenging climbs in the San Juan Mountains, Mesa Verde Country offers more than 600 miles of trails that traverse slick rock, old-growth forest and even ancient ruins.

Spring, summer and fall are the best times to ride, but winter fat tire biking makes Mesa Verde Country a year-round mountain biking destination. The higher elevations of the mesas and mountain trails offer incredible views, as well as relief from mid-summer heat for those who choose to come during warm weather months.

Favorite trails include Sand Canyon Trail in Canyons of the Ancients National Monument – possibly the only place in the world that riders can tackle single track and slick rock while riding past ancient cliff dwellings. Phil’s World Trail System boasts 60 miles of mind-blowing trails, and is located just six miles from Cortez. It has the perfect mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced trails and is quickly becoming one of Colorado’s most popular mountain biking spots (but without the crowds!). Boggy Draw is another favorite that’s located near Dolores. The Boggy Draw Loop is fairly mellow and nine-miles long – perfect for family riding. To work up a real sweat, check out the 13-mile Bean Canyon Loop.

Riding the Sand Canyon Trail

For après bike, enjoy local flavors sipping on the brews, wines and ciders in Mesa Verde Country.The area boasts five craft breweries – Dolores River Brewery, Main Street Brewery, Coyote J. Brewing Company, Mancos Brewing Company and the WildEdge Brewery in Cortez, which also features cider. Fenceline Cider | Outliers Cellars also has a taproom in downtown Mancos featuring ciders made from local apples. If wine is more your speed, check out Guy Drew Vineyards and Sutcliffe Vineyards.

There is no shortage of amazing food to help fuel your next ride. The area has cuisine covered from farm-to-table and locally grown to fresh and sustainable cuisine. The Farm Bistro and Stonefish Sushi & More are in Cortez, while Absolute Bakery & Cafe and Olio are in Mancos.

To rest up for the next singletrack adventure, Mesa Verde Country has many options that range from cozy cabins and RV parks to Airstreams and yurts. Guest ranches, bed-and-breakfasts, and retro motels round out the options for a good night’s sleep.

To learn more about mountain biking in Mesa Verde Country, watch this video or go to MesaVerdeCountry.com to begin planning your next trip.

Tags: Colorado, Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, food, Guy, Mesa Verde National Park, mountain biking, San Juan, summer, Western United States
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