Baxter Gulch Trail

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E-Bikes Not Allowed

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A demanding but rewarding classic mountain singletrack close to town. Challenging segments, flowy segmeents, and incredible scenery. This can also be connected with the Green Lake Trail and Carbon Creek Trail for a top choice loop.

There is no easy way to get to the top of Baxter. You can climb it, turn, and go down. Climb up Green Lake Trail or climb Carbon Trail 436. We rode it from town, up Carbon Trail 436, to the lake, and then over. The moto terrain had glimpses of goodness but more or less was a grind.

Start climbing from the Baxter Gulch Trailhead just above town off of highway 135. Slog to the top, turn around and follow these downhill directions:

The overall trail is tight, bench-cut singletrack that starts on the saddle between Green Lake and Whetstone Mountain. After a half-mile, gentle climb, you start the descent on smooth and, at times, rocky/rooty singletrack.

The trail dives in and out of the trees opening up with great views of the valley and surrounding peaks. As this trail gets ridden more often – it's still starting to buff out – and with some turns being lightly banked, it makes for some good speed. There are a few sections where there is exposure and a lapse in balance could send you rolling down the hill, it's best to be diligent.

About 80% of the way down, you cross a small bridge followed by a stiff climb for about half a mile. It then flattens out before dropping into some aspens with a good flow and feel.

More details can be found in this local news article.