The Boneyard Descent: A 3-Mile Rip Through Eagle, Colorado's Scenic Trails

Introduction

Situated in the picturesque terrain of Eagle, Colorado, the Boneyard Descent offers an adrenaline-pumping ride for intermediate cyclists. This 3-mile loop course combines steep, rocky descents with the natural beauty of pinyon pine and junipers. The track is meticulously designed to offer big bermed turns, challenging pitches, and a fun, fast ride.

Getting to the Trailhead

To access this breathtaking route, take exit #147 from I-70 and head south towards the roundabout. Take the first right and then the next left onto Capitol until you reach 3rd St. Turn left and continue until you find an open parking lot by the ball field at the corner of Bluff and Mill. Gear up and pedal east through the neighborhood to gravelly Bellyache Road. Follow the road up to the gate, and then the switchbacks will guide you to Boneyard Descent.

Key Trail Features

• Terrain: Fast singletrack with a steep, technical downhill section.
• Scenery: Diverse landscapes featuring pinyon pine and junipers.
• Challenges: Bermed turns, steep pitches, and some rutted sections.
• Accessibility: Trailhead easily accessible from the parking lot, well-marked paths.
• Extras: Cattle gates and sagebrush singletrack to finish the ride.

Cyclist Insights and Reviews

• Downhill Thrills: The descent is a masterclass in trail design, offering a quick, challenging downhill that’s incredibly rewarding.
• Trail Conditions: Generally hard-packed, optimal for fast riding. However, some sections can get rutted.
• Weekend Shuttles: For those focused on downhill runs, local shuttle services are available on weekends.
• Alternative Routes: Some riders opt for climbing up Ice Rink to access the trail, though this route is not recommended due to its steep and loose terrain.
• Boneyard Climb: An optimal way to kickstart the descent, the climb up Boneyard is relatively mellow and sets the tone for the downhill rip.

Recommendations and Tips

If you’re looking for a quick but challenging ride, this track is a must-visit. While the initial descent is steep and rocky, it smooths out after the first mile, allowing riders to navigate twists and turns with ease. Though the trail can be completed fairly quickly when ridden fast, its design and surrounding landscape ensure an exhilarating experience worth revisiting.

Final Thoughts

In Eagle, Colorado, the Boneyard Descent is not just a trail; it's an experience. It offers both scenic views and challenging terrain, making it highly recommended for any mountain biking enthusiast. Strap on your helmet, get into gear, and prepare yourself for a "raging ripfest" on one of Eagle's best rides.