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Routes
Mountain biking trails
United States
Colorado
Pitkin County

Prince Creek Road

Moderate

4.6

(5679)

15,735

riders

Prince Creek Road

01:34

12.9km

560m

Mountain biking

Embark on the Prince Creek Road mountain biking route, where you'll navigate a varied landscape of singletrack, dirt, and gravel roads. As you pedal, you'll wind through dense scrub oak and fragrant sage meadows, experiencing terrain that's notably smoother than many other local options. This moderate 8.0-mile (12.9 km) ride involves a climb of 1853 feet (565 metres), offering a rewarding workout that typically takes around 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for sculpted wash sides on trails like "Ginormous," which provide exciting turns, and as you gain elevation, you'll be treated to views of El Jebel.

To begin your adventure, head to the Prince Creek Trailhead, where parking is generally available. This area is a multi-use path, so you'll share the route with hikers, runners, and even horseback riders. If you're bringing a furry friend, you'll be glad to know the area is dog-friendly. In winter, when vehicle access might be closed, some sections are still accessible for fat biking and snowshoeing, offering a different seasonal experience.

Prince Creek Road is part of the larger Prince Creek & Crown Trail System, known for its diverse offerings. The trail system stands out for its unique features, such as the sculpted wash sides that make for fun and dynamic turns on certain sections. This area provides a great opportunity to explore the local landscape and enjoy a well-maintained trail network that caters to various outdoor activities.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

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Your route passes through protected areas

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Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

9.67 km

Prince Creek Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

Prince Creek Trailhead provides access to great mountain bike, trail running and hiking trails. The trails range from a quick afternoon loop to an all-day 20+ mile loop.
There is also several dispersed campsites along Prince Creek Road leading up to the trailhead.

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12.9 km

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

12.4 km

322 m

210 m

Surfaces

7.00 km

5.66 km

246 m

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Elevation

Elevation

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Highest point (2,470 m)

Lowest point (1,910 m)

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Weather

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Today

Thursday 21 May

14°C

-2°C

44 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of terrain can I expect on the Prince Creek Road trail system?

The Prince Creek Road trail system offers a varied experience with a mix of singletrack, dirt roads, and gravel roads. You'll ride through dense scrub oak, sage meadows, and alongside red rock cliffs. Some sections, like "Ginormous," feature sculpted wash sides for unique riding, and the trails are generally less rocky than other local options.

Is the Prince Creek Road trail system suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Prince Creek trail system is considered an excellent alternative to more technical trails in the region, appealing to a broader range of skill levels. It's generally less technical and features less strenuous climbing compared to some other local trails. Prince Creek Road itself is an intermediate/moderate dirt and paved road, and you'll find trails like "Lower Monte Carlo" designed for downhill-only blue difficulty, and "Ginormous" for varying skill levels.

Where can I park to access the Prince Creek Road trails?

You can access the trails from the Prince Creek Trailhead. Parking is available there, providing direct access to the extensive trail network.

Are there any permits or fees required to ride the Prince Creek Road trails?

No, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Prince Creek Road trails, as it is part of the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) trail system. However, always check local regulations before your visit.

What unique features or landmarks can I find on the Prince Creek Road trails?

The trail system is known for several distinctive features. You can find an actual "Monte Carlo" car on the trail that shares its name, which riders can go up and over or around. "Ginormous" is a downhill-only trail utilizing an old wash with sculpted sides for riding walls and railing turns. You might also spot scrub oaks decorated by locals on the "Christmas Tree" trail.

Is the Prince Creek Road trail system dog-friendly?

Yes, Prince Creek Road is a dog-friendly multi-use path. However, always ensure your dog is under control, and be mindful of other trail users, including hikers, runners, and horseback riders.

What is the best time of year to mountain bike the Prince Creek Road trails?

The Prince Creek Road trails are great for mountain biking during the spring, summer, and fall months. In winter, when closed to vehicles, some parts are accessible for fat biking and snowshoeing, offering a different experience.

Does the Prince Creek Road trail system connect to other well-known paths?

Yes, the Prince Creek Road trail system serves as a gateway to the larger Prince Creek and Crown BLM trail system. It offers extensive singletrack access and connects to numerous other trails like "Innie," "Outie," "Highline," "South Porcupine," and "English Trim," allowing for various loops and longer rides. Along this specific route, you'll also encounter sections of the Crystal Valley Trail, Creek Side Trail (Skill Saw), Monte Carlo, Lower Monte Carlo, and Prince Creek Climbing Trail.

Are there any specific strategies for riding the Prince Creek Road trails?

Yes, some trails within the system have specific uses. For instance, the "Prince Creek Climbing Trail" is designated for climbing only for bikes, though it shares sections with two-way traffic for hikers and runners. Trails like "Lower Monte Carlo" and "Ginormous" are designed for downhill-only use, so plan your routes accordingly to maximize your enjoyment and safety.

What should I know about the Prince Creek & Crown Trail System?

The Prince Creek & Crown Trail System is an extensive network of trails managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) near Carbondale, Colorado. It's renowned for its diverse terrain, scenic views, and accessibility for various skill levels. It's a multi-use area popular for mountain biking, hiking, running, and horseback riding, with no specific permits or fees required for general access. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect trail designations.

Nearby routes

Moderate

Prince Creek Road

01:34h

12.9km

560m

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