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A classic backcountry adventure route with stunning scenery and challenging terrain.


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Map Key

20.2

Miles

32.5

KM

50%

Singletrack

9,635' 2,937 m

High

6,774' 2,065 m

Low

2,445' 745 m

Up

4,439' 1,353 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (4°)

28%

Max Grade (16°)

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Unknown

Overview

If you like remote backcountry experiences on a mix of unmaintained singletrack and chunky rutted jeep roads add the Raggeds Trail #820 to the list.

Expect multiple sections of hike-a-bike and several stream crossings. Don't expect too much flow, but you'll find plenty of tech sections. There's plenty of climbing along the way until the final miles become a pure descent, but the views will blow your mind and you'll pass the only nude beach in CO above 9000'. A Colorado classic for sure!

Description

Despite the remote nature, the trail is well marked. There are several overgrown sections, and there can be plenty of downed trees at the start of every summer riding season. When you get to Tomahawk Reservoir, pick up the doubletrack which leads you to Erickson Springs Campground.

This ride can be done as a shuttle from the top of McClure Pass and ending at the Erickson Springs Campground along Kebler Pass Road (as shown). Or better yet, ride from Erickson Springs down the dirt road to the Kebler Pass turn off at the bottom of Paonia Resevoir for a shorter shuttle. For traditionalists looking for a much bigger ride, climb Highway 133 from Paonia Reservoir to make your day into a big loop.

While this trail certainly has its intermediate moments, the overall route rewards expert riders with its many technical sections in this remote environment. Riders should plan and pack properly for a much longer ride than the 17 miles would initially seem to imply.

History & Background

This trail will become part of the Carbondale to Crested Butte trail which is currently in the planning stages. More here: pitkinostprojects.com/carbo…

Contacts

Shared By:

Matt L

Trail Ratings

  3.2 from 10 votes

#1

in Redstone

#3330

Overall
  3.2 from 10 votes
5 Star
10%
4 Star
50%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
30%
1 Star
10%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Redstone

#474

in Colorado

#3,330

Overall
5 Views Last Month
4,938 Since Jul 25, 2017
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
0%
29%
57%
14%

Photos

Ragged Peak on the left, this is the end of the singletrack just before a left onto doubletrack.
Jul 26, 2017 near Paonia, CO
Skirting by Williams Creek Lake on the narrow doubletrack of the Raggeds Trail.
Jul 26, 2017 near Paonia, CO
Overgrown ferns among aspen tree groves on the Raggeds Trail.
Jul 26, 2017 near Paonia, CO
A big crew out for a big day, with the Raggeds off to the left for most of the ride.
Jul 26, 2017 near Paonia, CO
The only nude beach in CO above 9000'. Don't forget your suncreen!
Jul 26, 2017 near Carbondale, CO
One of the many stellar viewpoints along the route.
Jul 26, 2017 near Paonia, CO

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