The trail from Kenosha Pass to Georgia Pass is a cycling expedition that embodies Colorado's raw beauty and the thrill of mountain biking. Spanning a challenging 23 miles, this point-to-point ride captivates with its blend of alpine tundra, verdant forests, and technical descents. Located in Jefferson, Colorado, this difficult-level route promises an adventure that demands not just skill, but also stamina—especially given its high-altitude terrain.
The initial 5 miles serve as a warm-up, offering rolling single track filled with roots, technical sections, and a trifecta of bridges. This transforms into a climb toward the timberline for the next 6 miles. However, riders have mentioned that the climb feels somewhat gentler after a point referred to as "lunch rock."
An alternative to coming back down the same Colorado Trail is the West Jefferson Trail. More difficult than its counterpart, this trail dives into a series of tight switchbacks among trees after starting with a ride across the alpine tundra. It then becomes a rapid, narrow single track that descends alongside Jefferson Creek. Watch out for "bottomless" mud holes on this part!
A unique element to this trail is its high altitude, hovering around 9,000 feet. What might be a moderately challenging ride at lower elevations becomes notably tougher due to the thinner air.
The Kenosha to Georgia Pass offers an experience that combines stunning natural scenery with a set of biking challenges that make it one of the area's favorite altitude rides. Though it's a bit of a trek from Denver, the ride features an array of terrains—fast flats, juicy curves, rocky obstacles, and exhilarating downhills—that makes the drive worthwhile. But be warned: the altitude and the technical sections are not for the faint-hearted. Whether you're a seasoned rider or someone looking to push their limits, this trail offers a robust experience that could well become a lifelong memory.