Rocky Trails
Feb 13th 2008
Wild Turkey Trail at Heil Ranch
1. Sourdough: It took me a really long time to get around to riding this trail because so many people warned me away. But actually, it’s great. It’s in deep forest up near Brainard Lake, with lots of fun spurs onto other trails in the area. Some of those are technical and fun, which is a bonus. Check it out. Just leave the hardtail at home.
2. Heil Valley Ranch: I’ll be honest here. Historically I haven’t been been a fan of these trails. The surface of the main trail is usually chumbly, pointy, janky rock with no relief. Climbing it is okay; descending it is like riding a jackhammer, even with five inches of travel. However, regular trail maintenance combined with the addition of the Wild Turkey Trail has improved things a lot. And now that the Picture Rock Trail connects Heil with Hall Ranch, a lot is going well in the world of Heil Valley. However, there are conflicting opinions about Picture Rock… many say the trail fell victim to overly aggressive efforts to restrict the speeds of mountain bikers. As a result, they say it lacks flow and is full of awkward, complicated turns and choke points that make it a less than enjoyable experience. Others say it’s one of the most fun trails on the Front Range. As usual, there are as many opinions as there are people, so go check it out for yourself. Just avoid the weekends during prime hours if you can. Apparently it’s pretty crowded with users of all stripes.
3. Rattlesnake Gulch: Located in Eldorado Canyon State Park. I’ve actually never ridden this, mostly because it’s only 5 miles long and you have to pay to get into the park. But I think riding there from town, throwing in some Marshall Mesa or Doudy Draw on the way, could be the ticket. I swear I’ll do it this summer. But by all accounts, it sounds rocky and rubbly. Some folks also note more technical, step-up moves on the steep climb, and that you better bring an extra lung.
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