Cherry Creek Trail

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Unknown

This is one of many White River National Forest trails that includes a winter seasonal closure (for bikes and other wheeled vehicles) each year from Nov. 23rd through May 20th. Opening day is May 21st.

Cherry Creek Trail is primarily a downhill singletrack trail (only a minority ride it uphill). Find the trail via Forest Route 819.

The trail alternates between fast, technical, and smooth scenic sections of trail alongside the lush Cherry Creek. The trail becomes very fast with brief technical sections as the trail descends to the finish at the New Castle Buford Road.

The long downhill will certainly leave riders with hot brake rotors and smiles on their faces. There are enough smooth, non-technical sections that most ability levels can enjoy the trail with a little walking here and there. The trail surface can be heavily pock marked when cows are in the area, starting in mid-June each year. If you encounter big deep hoof prints... stay on the trail and help smooth the cow tracks out.

Most riders will enjoy this trail as a loop with the New Castle Buford Road (FR 245) & FR 819, parking at the bottom of Cherry Creek Trail, which is at the end of the pavement, near a cattle guard. Some riders will arrange to shuttle the road part of this loop, to focus on just the big singletrack descent.

As with any trail in the Flat Tops, you may encounter herds of sheep and guardian dogs. Review the informational signs at the White River National Forest maps on Buford Road to educate yourself on how to handle an encounter with a guardian dog.

During the fall this area is popular with the hunting community. Wear bright colored clothing and if you encounter a hunter be respectful as they likely enjoy their time in the forest just as much as you do!