White Ranch Open Space Outside Loop

The primary access point for this loop is the White Ranch Park East Trailhead. You'll find ample parking there.

This loop is considered difficult for mountain biking. You'll encounter a diverse mix of natural surfaces, from rugged singletrack to doubletrack. Expect technical sections with rock gardens, drops, water bars, roots, and fast bermy corners. Climbs, like those on Belcher Hill, can be very steep, loose, and rocky, but they often lead to rewarding, fast descents. Some sections can be very loose over hardpack.

Based on average speeds, this 21 km (13 mile) loop typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete on a mountain bike. However, your actual time may vary depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

You'll pass several interesting spots. Keep an eye out for the White Ranch Park Abandoned Barn. For stunning vistas, you'll ride past the Rawhide Trail Denver Viewpoint and enjoy a View of Denver from Low Longhorn Trail.

The scenery is a major highlight! You'll ride through areas with magnificent wildflowers, western yellow pines, and shaded Ponderosa Pine forests. The trails offer breathtaking views of the Front Range, Ralston Buttes, high plains, and the distant Denver landscape. Wildlife is abundant; you might spot elk, deer, mountain lions, grouse, bears, wild turkeys, and bobcats.

Yes, this loop incorporates several well-known paths within the park. You'll ride significant sections of the Belcher Hill Trail, Longhorn, Whippletree Trail, Rawhide Trail, and Mustang Trail.

Yes, White Ranch Open Space is dog-friendly. However, all dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Spring and fall are generally the most recommended seasons for mountain biking this loop due to more moderate temperatures. During summer, it's best to go in the mornings or evenings to avoid the heat and higher user traffic, especially on lower sections of trails like Belcher Hill.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access White Ranch Open Space. It is free for public use.

Yes, there's a 0.9-mile segment of the Longhorn Trail that is designated as bike-only and one-way as part of a Designated Use Pilot Program. Pay attention to signage for specific regulations on different trail sections.

Given its 'difficult' rating and the presence of technical sections, steep climbs, and rocky terrain, this loop is generally not recommended for beginners. It's better suited for intermediate to expert-level mountain bikers looking for a challenging ride.