Far from just another trail in Fruita, Colorado, Mack Ridge packs an array of technical challenges and rewards into its four-mile out-and-back route. While it's listed as a standalone course, savvy riders frequently integrate Mack Ridge into longer loops, connecting it with other Fruita staples like Lions Loop, Moore Fun, Mary's Loop, and Troy Built.
Begin the trail with a significant initial climb on a steep jeep road. While many riders regard this section as tedious and tough, the payoff comes in form of awe-inspiring views from the top. Once this ascent is conquered, the trail transitions into a stretch of singletrack that snakes along the rim of the area. Here, the course gets technical and requires skilled bike handling. The latter half of the trail presents a steep, techy downhill that leads directly into Lions Loop.
For the full Fruita experience, consider riding Mack Ridge as part of a larger loop. Many riders favor riding the trail from west to east, launching from the Troy Built parking lot. This routing allows a smoother transition into Lions Loop, followed by a return through Troy Built. The east-to-west direction minimizes dirt roads and maximizes the singletrack. Riders often feel both challenged and rewarded when tackling Mack Ridge in this manner.
While not for the faint-hearted, Mack Ridge offers a rigorous yet satisfying ride with its steep climbs, technical sections, and awe-inspiring views. It serves both as a formidable standalone course and as a versatile connector to other Fruita trails, offering riders multiple options to tailor their experience.Whether you're seeking to test your technical skills or yearning for a more scenic ride, Mack Ridge is a compelling choice that's often underrated in the vibrant Fruita trail network. So why wait? Mack Ridge promises a ride you'll remember.