Mountain Bike the Betasso Preserve
Details
Distance
3.3 miles
Elevation Gain
564 ft
Route Type
Loop
Added by Nate Luebbe
A scenic nature preserve located only 20 minutes from the heart of Boulder, Colorado. Miles of hiking, biking and picnic options make this a very popular destination for Colorado locals.
The Betasso Preserve features two loop trails that are accessible to both hikers and mountain bikers.
Drive up (west) Boulder Canyon about 15 minutes outside of Boulder and turn right (north) on Sugarloaf Dr. After another 5 or so minutes you'll see a sign on the right-hand (northeast) side of the road that takes you to the Betasso parking lot.
The Canyon Loop Trail is a moderate 3.3 mile trail with a gentle grade throughout. Enough uphill to get your heart pumping and downhill to whip your hair, but nothing extreme enough to be concerned about.
The Benjamin Loop is 2.4 miles roundtrip and is equally appealing. There are some steep switchbacks on the connector trail, but the loop itself is a wide open, well-maintained trail with plenty of space for both hikers and bikers.
Please note that bikes are prohibited on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Know for
Nearby
🌎
Local adventures
Find hikes, backpacking, photo spots, and more around Boulder.
🏕
Nearby lodging
Search campgrounds, glamping, and hotels near Boulder.
Reviews
Leave a Review
A Great Local Ride
This is one of my favorite rides that I can do from my doorstep in Boulder. It's less rocky and more flows than most trails in the front range.
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
