Troy Built Trail, Fruita, Colorado: A Technical Challenge With Unforgettable Views

Quick Overview

The 8-mile Troy Built Trail in Fruita, Colorado, presents cyclists with an array of technical challenges and stunning vistas of the Colorado River. Designed for experienced riders, this trail offers an "out & back" route but can also be part of larger loops involving neighboring trails.

Trail Specifications

• Distance: 8 miles
• Level: Difficult
• Route Type: Out & Back
• City: Fruita
• State: Colorado

How to Get There

From Interstate 70, take Mack Exit 11 and head south. A trailhead (TH) parking lot will appear within half a mile. To begin the trail, ride west on the frontage road for about 1 mile until spotting a sign for Troy's Trail.

The Ride Experience

Navigating the Trail

Initiating the climb on a narrow, technical singletrack, riders will pass Salt Creek below. At the 2.3-mile marker, the path intersects with Kokopelli Trail. Stay left here and prepare for exposed sections along the Colorado River that require undivided attention. The route leads to a technically challenging climb, culminating at Troy's/Lion's junction at 5 miles. From here, choose either to turn around and return to the parking lot or continue onto Lion’s Loop and explore the Kokopelli Trail area loops further.

Trail Highlights

• Gorgeous vistas of the Colorado River
• Singletrack skirting Salt Creek
• Technical climbs and exposed sections
• Intersection with Kokopelli Trail
• Options to extend the ride by connecting to Lion's Loop

What to Expect

1. Scenery: Captivating but requires focus during technical sections
2. Flow: Limited, as the trail's topology leans more towards the uphill challenge
3. Traffic: Lower compared to more renowned trails in the area
4. Temperature: Generally hotter due to the distance from the river

Rider Feedback and Tips

Previous Experiences

Cyclists find Troy Built to be less crowded than other Fruita trails like Mary's and Horsethief, but with a compromise on fun and flow. The trail can feel a bit relentless, giving the sensation of climbing for most of the journey. However, it serves as a quieter alternative to more trafficked routes, and those who love technical challenges will find it rewarding.

Recommendations

For those unfamiliar with Fruita's offerings, starting with more well-known trails like Mary's and Horsethief is advisable. If tackling Troy Built in hot weather, prepare for little relief. Carrying sufficient water and sun protection is essential.

Final Thoughts

The Troy Built Trail offers a rigorous yet rewarding experience for skilled mountain bikers. Though it may not provide the seamless flow of other local trails, its relative seclusion and technical features make it a worthy ride for those seeking to escape the crowds and test their limits. If you're after a quieter ride that doesn't skimp on challenge, Troy Built should be on your Fruita itinerary.