Known as “Bike Town USA,” Steamboat Springs offers some of the best mountain biking in Colorado, with over 500 miles of scenic singletrack winding through lush forests, open meadows, and rocky alpine terrain. Whether you’re just getting into the sport or you’re a seasoned downhill shredder, Steamboat has a trail for every rider. Here’s a roundup of some of the top mountain bike trails to explore on your next visit—organized by skill level.
Beginner-Friendly Mountain Bike Trails
Yampa River Core Trail
While not a mountain bike trail, the Yampa River Trail is perfect for families or those looking for a relaxing and scenic cruise. This 7.5-mile paved path runs through downtown Steamboat along the Yampa River, and it’s flat and easily accessible—ideal for a warm-up ride or leisurely spin.
Spring Creek Trail (Lower Section)
The first couple of miles of Spring Creek are mellow and well-shaded, making it a great introduction to off-road biking. Expect smooth terrain, a gentle incline, scenic creekside views, and plenty of wildflowers. You can ride this trail right from town, making it really convenient. Spring Creek Trail goes 5 miles up to a parking lot at the top of Buffalo Pass, but the trail does get steeper and more strenuous after the first couple of miles. Please keep an eye out for hikers and other bikers, as this trail is heavily used, especially on weekends.
Panorama Trail
Located at the top of Buffalo Mountain, Panorama is a short loop that offers sweeping views with minimal elevation gain. Take it slow and enjoy the ride—even though this ride is shorter and beginner-friendly, you’ll still be rewarded with stunning views, making you feel like you’re in the heart of the Rockies.
Intermediate Mountain Bike Trails
Emerald Mountain Trail Network
This local favorite offers a web of flowy, mostly intermediate, singletrack trails that start right from town at the base of Howelsen Hill. Try Bluff’s Loop or Morning Gloria for moderate climbs, fun descents, and varied terrain.
Flash of Gold
This stunning 10+ mile trail climbs gently through aspen groves and alpine forest. It’s a steady but manageable uphill for intermediates and a fast, flowy descent on the way down—especially in fall when the colors light up. If you aren’t up for a 10-mile ride, you can simply ride up as long as you wish, and turn around and enjoy Flash of Gold in the reverse. Just keep in mind that this trail is multi-directional, so keep your eyes out for other riders on the ascent and descent.
Advanced to Expert Mountain Bike Trails
Emerald Mountain Flow Fest
This 10.2 mile loop tours the best of the more “new school” trails built at Emerald Mountain. While most of this loop is perfect for intermediate riders, there are some more challenging sections with jumps, berms, tight switchbacks, and features that will test newer riders. From the base of Howelsen Hill, you’ll take Lupine to Morning Gloria to the intersection of Quarry Mountain and Ridge Connector. From here, you can take Little Moab to NPR (No Pedaling Required), a trail that boasts nearly 100 features of pure downhill fun. Head back into downtown Steamboat for a beer and lunch – the perfect day!
Spring Roll
Advanced riders looking for a thrilling, flowy descent close to town will love Spring Roll, the downhill-only trail carved into the iconic Spring Creek corridor. Redesigned in 2019, Spring Roll offers a purpose-built descent that parallels the original Spring Creek trail, giving experienced riders a faster, more dynamic ride option with convenient access from downtown Steamboat. This fast-paced trail winds through dense aspen groves, hugs a quiet mountain creek, and blasts through meadows bursting with wildflowers—especially during peak bloom when Colorado columbines dot the landscape. Riders can jump into Spring Roll from several points along the climb up Spring Creek, which remains a multi-use, bi-directional trail. Keep in mind that when Spring Roll reconnects with Spring Creek, you’ll be sharing the path with hikers and uphill riders, so stay alert, slow down, and yield as needed to help everyone enjoy the ride.
Steamboat Bike Park
Located at the ski resort, this lift-served downhill park offers expertly built trails, jumps, features, and drops for advanced and expert riders. Trails like Rustler’s Ridge, Rawhide and Buckin’ Bronc are adrenaline-packed and professionally maintained.
Ready to ride? Book your stay and start planning your mountain biking adventure in Steamboat today!
After a day on the trails, return to your Four Seasons Steamboat rental to clean up, refuel, and unwind. Many of our Steamboat Springs vacation rentals feature bike-friendly amenities like garages, hose hookups, and easy access to local trailheads. Whether you’re here for a weekend ride or a full-on biking vacation, Steamboat’s trail system and laid-back vibe make it a must-visit destination for cyclists of all levels.
