A mountain biker rides along a rugged trail bordered by vibrant yellow wildflowers, with a rocky cliff and a forested valley in the background under a cloudy sky. CDT: Alpine Tunnel mountain bike trail.
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Level: Advanced
Length: 18 mi (29 km)
Surface: Other
Configuration: Loop
Elevation: +907/ -736 ft
Total: 49 riders
 

Mountain Biking CDT: Alpine Tunnel

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#31 of 1,383 mountain bike trails in Colorado
#168 in the world

This ride starts in the ghost town of St. Elmo.From here ride east on the you drove in on .Turn right on Hancock Road FSR 295.You are now on the historic Denver,South Park and Pacific railroad grade. After about six miles you enter the old townsite of Hancock. Cross the bridge look for Alpine Tunnel trail sign.On the lower part of the trail there are still alot of railroad ties left. It's amazing since the railroad has,t operated since 1910. The trail continues to the east portal. Just before the tunnel turn left on Continental Divide Trail. The next five miles is singletrack almost entirely above timberline. Climb a steeply for about 1/2 mile.When you come to a trail junction at top of ridge follow CDT to the right. Climb some more. From here you can see Tunnel Lake. The singletrack is difficult and rated expert. There are streem crossings and beautiful alpine meadows for several miles.One more climb, then a screaming downhil until you reach FSR267.1 Turn right down a rocky old minning road to St. Elmo.

First added by lostcause on Aug 16, 2005. Last updated Apr 30, 2020. → add an update
Before you go
  • Drinking water: unknown
  • Lift service: unknown
  • Night riding: yes
  • Pump track: unknown
  • Restrooms: unknown
  • Fat bike grooming: unknown
  • E-bikes allowed: unknown
  • Fee required: unknown
This trail information is user-generated. Help improve this information by suggesting a correction.
Getting there
16 milels north of Salida on highway 285 look for sign to St. Elmo.Turn left, west on county road 162.Drive 15 miles to St. Elmo. Park along side of road.
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Greg Heil (Sep 11, 2019)
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(Jul 4, 2018)
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