Mountain Biking in Winter Park, Colorado

There's something magical about Winter Park, Colorado, especially if you're a mountain biker. Whether you’re feeling the thrill of summer air or embracing the crisp chill of winter, this place offers a biking experience like no other. I still remember the first time I dropped into a trail at Trestle Bike Park, the mountain air rushing past me as I soared down the slopes. And that wasn’t even in summer. The winter months bring a whole different vibe — fat-tire biking through snow-packed trails, serene mountain views, and an adrenaline rush you’d never expect when the snow is falling.

Winter Park isn't just a destination for skiers and snowboarders; it’s a paradise for mountain bikers, no matter the season. And trust me, once you ride here, you’ll see why this hidden gem keeps bikers coming back year after year. So grab your bike (and maybe a jacket), and let’s dive into what makes mountain biking in Winter Park so epic year-round!

- DJ Baca, Compass

Sojourn at Idlewild, Winter Park, Colorado

Downhill Glory at Trestle Bike Park 🚵‍♂️

Perched on the slopes of Winter Park Resort, Trestle Bike Park is among the fastest-growing downhill parks in North America, boasting over 40 miles of lift-served trails. Riders rave about its flowy singletrack, natural features, and accessibility across skill levels—beginner riders can even tackle double-black lines like Rainmaker in gentle terrain.

Rentals and lessons are available right at the base. From pro clinics to private downhill coaching, there's an option for every rider. And if you're lucky enough to visit in July, the Colorado Freeride Festival unleashes some of the most thrilling slopestyle and downhill competitions you'll ever see.

“This is at Trestle bike park – Winter Park, CO… Shame that park is only open for maybe 3 months a year. So much fun.” (reddit.com)

‍

XC and Trail Riding: Forest & Meadows

When winter blankets the peaks, winter mountain biking shifts into fat‑tire bliss. Trails range from compacted forest roads like St. Louis and Vasquez Roads to groomed singletrack such as Crosstrails and Winter Woods.

At Devil’s Thumb Ranch, exclusive overnight guests can fat‑bike serene Nordic trails well into early spring—typically mid‑November to early April. For those braving cold temps and prepared conditions, this winter ride offers a peaceful alternative to the adrenaline of summer.

‍

Granby

You also may consider mountain biking in Granby, CO. Nestled between Winter Park, Arapahoe National Forest, and Rocky Mountain National Park, Granby offers access to over 600 miles of trails ranging from mellow town loops to thrilling lift-served downhill terrain. Granby Ranch, just minutes from downtown, is a prime destination with its gondola-accessed bike park boasting over 30 miles of cross-country routes, technical downhill lines, and progressive features for all skill levels. Thrill-seekers can test their skills in its lift-accessed downhill network, while families can cruise forested singletrack on gentler routes. For longer, scenic rides, the Fraser‑to‑Granby trail spans 16 miles through aspen groves and alpine meadows, connecting three mountain towns and offering a delightful blend of paved, gravel, and singletrack terrain. 

‍

Gear, Rentals & Pro Tips

Stay warm, ride smart:

• Mountain biking rental options are plentiful—Epic Mountain Sports, Christy Sports, Icebox Mountain Sports, and local shops offer everything from dual‑suspension MTBs to e‑bikes.
• Uphill access is encouraged in summer via free upward passes at the resort, a nice perk for cross‑country riders.
• Fat‑bike tips: optimal riding in temps below 38 °F, otherwise packed snow turns slushy.

‍

Local Wisdom & Safety

Follow the golden IMBA trail etiquette: ride open routes, yield appropriately, leave no trace, and give wildlife wide berth.

Winter riding offers solitude—but also wildlife. One user shares visiting advice:

“Some fun climbing and super scenic trails… I had very close encounters with 3 bears and a mountain lion… Stop at murdoch’s and pick up some bear spray.” (reddit.com)

Bring bear spray when venturing farther from town, and keep your route and timing in check.

‍

Sample Rides

Summer:

• Green World: A flowy, buffed singletrack accessed via Zephyr Lift—a beginner‑friendly breeze with charming wooden bridges.
• Top beginner/intermediate loops: Creekside/Flume, Blue Sky, Lone Wolf, Leap Frog, and Idlewild offer scenic progression with lots of variety.

Winter:

• Compacted forest roads: Great for fat-tire beginners (St. Louis Creek, Elk Creek).
• Packed singletrack: Crosstrails, Ditch Trail, Winter Woods—offer more challenge and solitude.
• Nordic fat-biking: Exclusive to Devil's Thumb Ranch guests—quiet, groomed, and often ungroomed deep-face powder.

‍

Why Winter Park Is a Year‑Round MTB Destination

From bike park thrills at Trestle to peaceful winter fat‑bike tours, Winter Park supports MTB culture in every season. Whether you're chasing air on downhill runs or carving through fresh snowfall, the riding here is unforgettable—just don’t let your bike hibernate.

Ready to explore the trails? Pack layers, bring your fat‑tire, and get ready for a biking experience that spans both adventure seasons—all wrapped in Colorado's iconic alpine beauty.

Gear Checklist:

• Summer: Full-suspension or hardtail MTB, repair kit, water, helmet.
• Winter: Fat-tire bike, insulating layers, goggles/gloves, bear spray, trail map (COTREX recommended).

Happy trails, whatever the season!

- DJ Baca, Compass

Sojourn at Idlewild, Winter Park, Colorado

‍