Betasso : Mountain Biking : MBPost

Overview

Betasso is short drive from Boulder and features a 3.3 mile loop of fast, flowing singletrack. Even better than driving the short distance is riding to the trail using the Canyon path and the connector link.

The trail features a mandatory direction for bicycles, and the direction alternates monthly.

Trail Description

Joel attacking the downhill at Betasso.

Regardless of direction, riders start with a fast descent for about 1.6 miles followed by a gradual 5% climb back up to the parking lot. The trail is smooth and fast, with no technical terrain to be found. There are several areas of exposure, but with the wide nature of the trail (not really single or double track) there is some room for error.

If you are riding from town (recommended), you'll have to climb the more technical Connector Link. This link starts directly off the paved road and quickly climbs a loose, rocky section. The Link Trail offers a nice addition to the relatively short 3.3 mile loop, plus saves the trouble of driving to the trail.

Multiple loops are advised to get in a good ride.

Getting There

Jill riding the exposed singletrack at Betasso near Boulder, Co.

If you are driving, head west on Canyon Blvd till you reach Sugarloaf Rd. Take a right turn onto Sugarloaf and follow it until you reach a hard right turn onto Betasso Rd. Follow Betasso Rd to one of the two parking areas.

If riding from town, ride the Boulder Creek path until it ends near Four Mile Canyon Rd. Continue up Boulder Canyon Rd on the shoulder until you approach the tunnel, at which point you'll see a small parking area to your right and the Connector Link trail rising sharply up the hillside.

When to Bike

All season biking, although snow can linger through the winter months. Be aware that bikes ARE NOT ALLOWED on Wednesday or Saturday, so be aware before you plan to go there.

Special Considerations

The no bikes on Wed/Sat ruling was put into place as an effort to minimize conflicts between hikers and bikers. When riding Betasso ensure that you are overly polite as you encounter hikers so future conflicts are minimized. Also be aware that even though bikers are forced to go one direction, you will encounter hikers traveling either direction.