Basics
- Length:
- 25 miles
- Aerobic Difficulty:
- Moderate
- Time To Allow:
- 4+ hours
- Season:
- March - November
Description
The Switzerland Trail is an epic mountain bike ride outside the city of Boulder. Once the location of a tourist train route connecting Boulder and Sunset at the turn of the 20th century, the Switzerland Trail is a popular destination for bikers and 4x4 vehicles alike.
The Switzerland Trail features fairly steep and sometimes loose climbing sections, which will challenge beginner and intermediate bikers. Along its length, the Switzerland Trail winds through mountain meadows and stands of pine forest. Dramatic views extend from the Switzerland Trail toward the mountains of the Continental Divide and eastward into the Great Plains.
The combination of dirt road and small sections of singletrack on the Switzerland Trail make for an amazing downhill! Riders on the Switzerland Trail will cruise through the historic town of Sunset along the way, allowing for a unique glimpse of this area’s colorful mining past.
Bikers looking for a bit less of a climb can shuttle part of the climbing section of the Switzerland Trail with an appropriate vehicle, road and weather conditions permitting. Route finding on the Switzerland Trail can be a bit confusing at times and it is recommended that riders carry a detailed map of the area, available at bike shops in Boulder.
Details
Length:
Many side spurs add length.
Difficulty:
Aerobic Difficulty:
Time To Allow:
Time can be lengthened by adding trails along way
Season:
Additional Details:
While riding any trail system it is a great idea to include a repair kit and first aid kit. The Switzerland Trail is mostly on roadways which are not well maintained so it does have potential to become remote quickly in the event of a flat or injury so bring additional water, food and clothing as well. The Switzerland Trail is multi-use and hikers, 4x4 vehicles, 4 wheelers and dirt bikes use the roadway. Please be considerate on the trails and understand right of way protocol.
