Ginny Trail is a new trail opened in September 2007 within the Bobcat Ridge Natural Area located just West of Masonville, CO and just a few minutes from Horsetooth Mountain Park. It's a fun 10.8 mile (roundtrip) out and back ride with approximately 2300 ft elevation gain. The trail and area are similar to the trails in Horsetooth and if your familiar with them, this is definitely worth the trip.
There is also a nontechnical loop trail/path in the lower area of Bobcat Ridge which could serve as a warmup for the Ginny trail or a mellow family ride.

Approaching Bobcat Ridge.

Trail Description

Like most of the trails in the area, when you ride the Ginny trail, aside from a few short flat sections to catch your breath, you are either climbing or descending.
The trail climbs through the remnants of a large burned area from a fire in 2000 and gives this ride a decidedly crispy feel.

The area is slowly recovering from the fire in 2000.

The trail starts with very little warm up and climbs to the top of the ridge on firm dirt singletrack littered liberally with various sized rocks. Many switchbacks and several rock step-ups will test your endurance. I would describe the trail as nearly 100 percent rideable by a well conditioned rider.
At the top of the ridge the trail traverses north along the west side rolling and weaving and eventually dropping into a small meadow (Mahoney Park.)

On the way around the ridge to the meadow.

The meadow is littered with some larger trailside boulders that can be ridden, dropped, and enjoyed. Just past the meadow is the clearly marked turnaround point. Past this is designated for horses only.

Mahoney Park.

Turnaround, take a breath and a drink, and climb back up to the top of the ridge and prepare for the thrilling descent back to the trailhead.
The descent is fast with several short technical rocky sections to negotiate at speed as well as a few well placed rock launches for a little air time. Be sure to keep your eyes up for approaching riders and hikers and always yield for uphill traffic, hikers, and horses.

Getting There

From Fort Collins take Harmony Road west, it turns into CR 38 E. Follow CR 38 E to Masonville. Go left (south) at the Masonville Mercantile onto CR 27. Follow CR 27 about 1 mile to CR 32 C, head west about 1 mile to the parking lot.

When to Bike

Biking should be good year round when dry. Summer will be hot and there is little shade.

Red Tape

There are no passes needed for the Fort Collins Natural Areas. This trail is FREE to ride. Also note that no dogs are allowed in Bobcat Ridge.