Dave Outdoors: Foothills Trail to the "A" (MTB)

For my first blog post I thought I'd share one of my favorite short mtn bike rides. It ususally takes me about 45 min so it is a good ride to do during the week before work. I ususally feel awake, energized and ready for the day after this steep technical single track ride. This time estimate usually includes taking some pictures, enjoying the brisk early morning view overlooking the city or watching the occasional deer.

Trail GPS track

Trail stats
Round trip dist = 3.5mi
Total elevation gain = 734 feet
Ride time = 45 min
Trail type = rocky technical single track

Trail walkthrough
At the intersection of Prospect and Banyan there is a dirt road that is gated off. Ride up this road about a half mile and you'll reach the Maxwell natural area entrance. Continute about 1/4 mile until you reach the foothills trail and take a right. This begins the steep and rocky part of the ride. At a total distance of 1.4 miles there is a marked fork in the road with the option to continue straigh to the "A" or turn right to continue on the foothills trail. From this point its about 1/4 mile to the "A" and smooth singletrack except for a very steep rocky hill near the top. Once you reach the "A" there is a very nice view of the city to the east and a nice view of Horsetooth reservior and horsetooth rock to the west. I ususally will relax for a short while at the top and take a few pictures.