Baldy Trail, Pine, Colorado: A Climber's Delight

Deep in the heart of Pine, Colorado, the Baldy Trail offers a unique blend of uphill challenges and exhilarating descents. With a recent reroute and trail realignments, Baldy promises an engaging experience for cyclists, whether they're looking to ascend or descend this enticing route.

Trail Overview

• Distance: 3 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route type: Loop
• City: Pine
• State: Colorado

Getting There

For those seeking adventure, getting to Baldy is relatively straightforward. Follow the route to Buffalo Creek, then decide between two starting points: the Meadows Campground or the Gashouse Gulch Trailhead. The total journey can range from 6 to 9 miles, depending on your chosen trailhead.

Ascend or Descend? The Choice is Yours

Baldy has grown in reputation, particularly due to recent commendable efforts by BC volunteers. Noteworthy modifications include:

• Realignment of the trail, bypassing former problematic sections.
• Extension of the trail with supported turns and added exciting challenges.
• Prevention of deep scree accumulation, ensuring a smoother ride.

The trail's surface predominantly features crushed gravel, characteristic of Buffalo Creek, making it possible for cyclists to avoid momentum-stealing deep gravel or sand spots. A significant benefit is the trail's course through a wooded area, offering ample shade and a cooler cycling environment.

Cyclist's Feedback

Baldy Trail has elicited varied reactions from those who've traversed its path:

• Trail Transformation: Recent changes have transformed Baldy into a reputable 4-star trail, ideal for downhill enthusiasts.
• Climbing Charm: Many applaud its ascent, noting it as a fun loop when combined with the Gashouse descent.
• Trail Maintenance: Commendations for the trail's upkeep are frequent. Some note the trail's softness, urging caution during high-speed turns.
• Trail Popularity: Its sweet rolling singletrack makes it a favorite among Buffalo Creek trails.
• Technicality: While it offers some technical riding, it's not the primary focus. Rock sections offer a brief challenge, but it's the descents that truly reward after the rigorous climbs.
• Climbing Route Alternatives: If ascending, a loop via Gashouse Gulch is suggested, and for those looking to descend, Charlie’s Cutoff and Sandy Wash come highly recommended.

In Summation

The Baldy Trail, with its recent enhancements, is a must-ride for cyclists visiting Pine, Colorado. While it promises substantial climbs, the rewards at the peak make every pedal stroke worth the effort. And with the flexibility to combine with other trails, the experiences on offer are diverse and thrilling. Whether climbing with tired legs or seeking a swift descent, Baldy provides the challenge and satisfaction in equal measure.