Midland Hill Gravel Loop

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Features Views

16-mile tour around Midland Hill along rolling gravel roads with panoramic views of the Sawatch Range.

Buena Vista has all the services needed.

The loop starts at the popular Whipple Trails next to the Arkansas River. Cross the bridge onto Bridge to Bridge Trail. This trail is very popular, so be alert for other users, including dogs & visitors enjoying the views. When you reach a 3-way junction, head straight up, onto South Trail (6032), which is steep, but not too technical. Whipple Main Route (6031) is another option, for a fairly mellow grade & nontechnical route. Either way, you'll be climbing. This is the only singletrack and the hardest part of the whole loop is the first 0.5 miles. ~1 mile after crossing the bridge & climbing, you'll find yourself on the Midland Grade Road (304). This is the old railroad bed which has nearly no car traffic and is very gentle. You'll have nice views over the Arkansas River Valley. There are nice singletrack trails off to the sides, if you want to go exploring.

When you reach Old Midland Cutoff (376.A), the uphill gets steeper as you climb to 9,300' on the east side of Midland Hill. Again, nice views.

Then you have a long downhill on Lenhardy Cutoff 376 along the backside of Midland Hill in a remote area. You'll see vegetation changes as you go downhill. Eventually, you reach the Fourmile Recreation Area, which also has other biking options & is a popular OHV location.

You'll then reach CR 371. If you're looking for additional mileage before heading back to town, turn right (north) & where the mellow-grade road will take you through the old railroad tunnels & along the Arkansas River. Keep an eye out for whitewater rafters & rock climbers.

If you're ready for that post-ride beverage, turn left (south) onto CR 371 & enjoy the easy pedal back to BV.