TBT: Mountain Biking Sidewinder Trail (Oct 2016)
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This post is part of a Throwback Thursday series featuring trip reports that we haven’t had a chance to write about until now! Look for them at least every other Thursday!
When riders think of classic mountain bike rides in Colorado, they typically think of trails in Crested Butte, Aspen, Fruita, Grand Junction, Monarch Pass, Front Range and parts of Summit County. Delta isn’t usually on the list- certainly not in the top 10.
But the newer trail of Sidewinder lies just outside of Delta, between Delta and Montrose, running parallel with the Gunnison Gorge. And that trail is quickly becoming one of my favorite mountain bike rides. A scenic trail overlooking the valley below, it’s also full of technical features that will keep even expert riders challenged. Just a short way from Grand Junction, this trail should be one you consider when you travel next for some riding on the Western Slope.
The first time I rode Sidewinder Trail, I rode it from north to south, which many recommended. But, when I rode it last fall, we biked from south to north and I liked this way better. In this direction, more of the technical features were enjoyed while on short descents rather than as ascents as they were the opposite way. I felt like this direction just had more flow.
Here’s some more pictures from my ride with Natalie last fall to get you stoked for some mountain biking on Sidewinder Trail!
Natalie.
Either way, if you like technical desert biking, then this ride is a must-do – so add it to your list. Sidewinder Trail is perfect for spring and fall riding!
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