Tucked away in Canon City, Colorado, the Section 13 trail offers mountain biking enthusiasts a seven-mile loop of intermediate-level terrain, balancing both rocky and smooth surfaces. Characterized by its gradual climbs and flowing descents, this trail is a year-round destination, thanks to its dry conditions. Here's what riders can anticipate.
Accessing Section 13 starts off easy enough: just head through a gate across from the pullout on Temple Canyon Road. From there, riders climb through arid landscapes into forested areas, navigating a mixture of rocky and smooth singletrack. Despite its intermediate tag, the loop provides enough challenges to keep even seasoned riders entertained, especially in the form of rocky patches on the lower half.
Opt to ride the loop counter-clockwise, and you're in for a treat. The descent features a series of small berms that amplify the flow and speed, making for an exciting downhill experience. The descent is dubbed as 'swoopy,' and it lives up to this moniker quite well.
Those who frequent the South Canon Trails can easily incorporate Section 13 as an extra, enhancing their day's adventure. Compared to other local options like Oil Well Flats, Section 13 might not rank as high but serves as a refreshing change.
Though user reviews often highlight the trail's lack of difficulty, its fun factor is consistently praised. New riders should approach with caution, as the rocky terrains and climbs can prove challenging. But for those who conquer it, the trail serves as a playground to improve skills.
While Section 13 may not be the pinnacle of technical mountain biking, its unique blend of rocky terrains, smooth forested sections, and flowing descents offer an enjoyable ride close to Canon City. It's a worthwhile addition for anyone looking to explore the trails of Colorado.
10 mi 
