A mountain biker performs a jump off a dirt ramp, showcasing an impressive airborne maneuver against a backdrop of lush green hills and a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. Drop Shaft mountain bike trail.
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Tags:
Level: Expert
Length: 11 mi (17.7 km)
Surface: Other
Configuration: Out & Back
Elevation: +742/ -665 ft
Total: 7 riders
 

Mountain Biking Virginia Canyon

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#99 of 1,396 mountain bike trails in Colorado
#705 in the world

A.K.A.Virginia Canyon or CR. 279.

Gets its name from the drop- offs, tight switchbacks and incredible views.This side of the hill remains snow free most of the winter making it the perfect place for a winter xc ride or shuttle.

Before the construction of Central City Parkway this was a major route between Idaho Springs and Central City. The area is rich in mining history.

At one time Central City was proposed to be the State Capital. It was also known as the richest square mile on earth.

Not much singletrack but there are a ton of old roads to explore. From Russell Gulch you can get to Fall River, St. Mary’s, Mammoth Gulch, Rollins Pass, Nevadaville and Central City.

In the winter I usually just ride to the county line and hit Gilson Gulch on the way back. Oh My God Road and Central City Parkway makes about a 20 mile loop for another option.

At the present time bikes are not allowed on Central City or Black Hawk roads.

First added by lostcause on Dec 23, 2010. Last updated Nov 7, 2024. → 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
From Denver take I-70 west to Idaho Springs.
System trails (2)
 difficultyDrop Shaft2.6 mi
 difficultyWorld Cup2 mi
Featured in
A mountain biker performs a stunt on a dirt track, riding past a wooden archway in a forested area. Surrounding the track, spectators watch as lush greenery lines the path. A "Best of 2024" logo is displayed in the corner of the image.
  2
A panoramic view of a mountainous landscape with rolling hills and lush greenery, overlooking a small town nestled in the valley below. The scene features a winding dirt path in the foreground, leading down the slope, with the town's buildings visible alongside a road. The sky is overcast with dramatic clouds, adding depth to the picturesque scenery.
  4


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Trail conditions

Dusty (May 14, 2016)
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  • henrytjhie10
    *****

    This is the place to get your down hill on off season. Be ready to deal with morons telling you to "get off thier land" only thing is that this is 100% confined within BLM Land (Just had a meeting with the local police) Do not let these liars intimidate us, this is an open trail. Please call the cops when locals come to harass you, they are the weakest human on earth.

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