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Ponderosa Loop

Intermediate
 3.4 (38)

A short intermediate loop at the top of Heil Ranch, with moderate terrain and a scenic overlook.


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Map Key

2.7

Miles

4.3

KM

Singletrack

6,810' 2,076 m

High

6,593' 2,010 m

Low

238' 73 m

Up

212' 65 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

8%

Max Grade (5°)

Dogs No Dogs

E-Bikes Unknown

Description

The Ponderosa loop connects with the top of the Wapiti trail, and is marked with a wooden signpost. Here, you can continue straight to ride the loop counter-clockwise, or make a left. It doesn't matter which direction you choose - either way, you'll find yourself rolling trail, with many rocks, some loose, along the way. The trail is still intermediate here, but pay attention - the loose rocks can throw you off your line.

Halfway around the loop you'll find a scenic overlook with a park bench - perfect for a breather and a snack. The overlook provides a far away view of Hall Ranch below - which you can ride to by joining up with the Picture Rock trail.

Also along the Ponderosa loop are turnoffs for the Wild Turkey trail, which then leads to the Picture Rock trail, which can be ridden to Lyons and Hall Ranch.

Contacts

Shared By:

Michael Ahnemann with improvements by Karl Pelletier

Trail Ratings

  3.4 from 38 votes

#1137

Overall
  3.4 from 38 votes
5 Star
18%
4 Star
18%
3 Star
50%
2 Star
11%
1 Star
3%
Trail Rankings

#265

in Colorado

#1,137

Overall
3 Views Last Month
3,020 Since Nov 28, 2012
Intermediate

0%
0%
90%
0%
10%
0%

Photos

Looking out over Heil Valley.
Jun 17, 2016 near Lyons, CO
A sign warning of an aggressive grouse and the aggressive grouse
Apr 18, 2015 near Lyons, CO
Bob and Weave through the numerous rock gardens
Aug 8, 2018 near Lyons, CO
A nice resting spot with a bench and a view.
May 25, 2013 near Lyons, CO
Overlook on Ponderosa Trail is incredible!
Sep 19, 2017 near Lyons, CO
Great view and rest stop
Jul 24, 2015 near Lyons, CO

Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Minor Issues 1 day ago
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Check-Ins

Aug 12, 2022
Loren D
2.7mi — 0h 30m
May 19, 2022
natelav89
Oct 16, 2020
Kline
Rode from Wapiti and did the big loop. I had wanted to figure 8 the two, but smoke was really blowing in from the north. Trail is wonderful; rocky
Oct 4, 2020
Matthew Lastname
Sep 27, 2020
Matthew Lastname
Jan 26, 2020
Daylene York
2.7mi
Nov 16, 2019
Roma Velasco
Sep 9, 2019
Marcin Gliszewski
Perfect conditions after rain yesterday. Rain kept all the dust down. Met only 3 or 4 bikers and a couple people hiking.