The public lands adjacent to Montrose have numerous mountain bike routes in three general geographic areas:
Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area
The GGNCA is located northeast of Montrose and encompasses the area commonly referred to as the Adobes, as well as rocky pinyon and juniper uplands, and, of course, the deep wilderness canyon of the Gunnison Gorge itself.
Numerous mountain biking opportunities are available along the entire western flank of the NCA. For those seeking a technically challenging singletrack ride, Sidewinder Trail runs 20 miles from the North Sidewinder Trailhead south to Eagle Valley Trail near the Peach Valley staging area. Another access point near the end of the Bostwick Park Road is Kurt’s Trail. Check out BLM’s Flat Top-Peach Valley Trail Map for more detailed information.
The NCA is interlaced with many trails, and some are unsuitable for mountain biking – mostly because they are too steep. The best seasons to ride these trails are spring and fall. Avoid these trails after heavy rain.
Dry Creek Area
These trails are located in the canyon/mesa country west of Montrose. The main trailhead for the area is the Tabeguache Trailhead at the north end of Shavano Valley Road. Access to riding is also possible from Transfer Road. Spring and fall riding season.
Uncompahgre Plateau
These trails are located in the high country southwest of Montrose. Most of these trails are accessible from the Divide Road by way of Dave Wood Road and Highway 90. Summer and early fall riding season. Popular routes include Aspen Trail, Buck Trail, and the Buzzard Gulch Trail System.