LOCATION:
In Cheyenne Canyon. Use the High Drive parking lot.
GOLD CAMP ROAD
TRIP TIME:
1-3 hours
DISTANCE:
The road is 9 miles long. Bike it all or just part.
ELEVATION:
Start- 7,475 ft
End- 9,050 ft
WHAT TO BRING:
-Water bottle
-Maybe an extra layer
GOLD CAMP
RESOURCES:
THE RIDE:
Gold Camp Road is far from a challenge. But there’s something to a slow ride up a mountain. It’s mellow and rhythmic. And after a while, you can’t help but relax.
ROUTES:
Gold Camp Road was built for mining-trains in the 1880’s. About 50 years later it was modified for automobile traffic. But now, thanks to a collapsed tunnel, it’s only open to hikers and bikers.
The road winds all the way to Old Stage. It’s nine miles of inviting 3% grade. Silver Cascades Falls is off to your left at mile 1.5, and the trail to Saint Mary’s Falls is on your right at mile 2. Hop on a side trail or ride the whole road.
The ride down goes quick. Make sure to look around and enjoy because you’ll be at your car before you know it.
GOOD TO KNOW:
-This trail isn’t hard, but that makes it a great place to talk and ride. So bring a friend.
-If you go in the evening, be sure to take Lower Gold Camp Road down. It might have the best view of city lights in Colorado Springs.
-Three quarters of a mile up, Cheyenne Creek goes under the road in a culvert. When the water isn’t too high or too low, it makes for a great water slide.
RATING:
Scenery- 8
Crowds- 4 (10 is packed)
Technical- 1
Aerobic- 4
My Overall- 6
CLICK FOR GOLD CAMP ROAD ALBUM
