Crystal Peak - Star Pass Big Loop

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Features Commonly Bikepacked · Drops/Jumps · Hike-a-bike · Technical · Views

You like big climbs, amazing high alpine views, and incredible descents? This ride is for you. A great tour of Cement Creek trails. Just make sure to bring plenty of fluids, food, and endurance...because you're going to need it.

This is a high altitude and deeper back country ride in Cement Creek. Long climbs and long descents. Take plenty of water, food, and some form of satellite communication device in case you get into trouble, because you likely wont come across many people on this ride.

Start by parking at the Deadman's Gulch trailhead or somewhere off of Cement Creek road nearby. Ride east on Cement Creek Road for 1.3mi until the start of Upper Cement Creek Trail. Take Upper Cement Creek Trail in its entirety until you get to the intersection of Hunters Creek trail. Take a right here, cross Cement Creek and continue up Cement Creek Road.

In about 2 miles, you'll see a trail sign on your left for Trail 583 (Crystal Peak). Take a left on this trail. From here, the climbing starts getting tougher. For some, this trail is 100% ride-able but for many there will be parts where you won't have enough gear to climb. As you ascend you'll eventually get to a saddle at around 12,000' and a junction with the Mount Tilton Spur Trail.

Take a nice rest here and soak in the stellar views. Continue on Crystal Peak Trail for another half mile or so until you get to the junction of Trail 400 Star Pass. Take a left here and climb up the short but steep trail to the top of Star Pass (there will be some hike-a-bike on this section for most). This is the high point on the ride and another great spot to rest and take in the views.

Bomb down Star Pass (Trail 400) for 4+ miles of awesomeness. Make sure not to take a left at Double Top (Trail 405), which is only 1 mile downhill from the summit of Star Pass. After what will seem like endless downhill you'll come to an intersection with Block and Tackle (Trail 545). Take a left here.

The new trail will start with a brief downhill followed by a creek crossing before climbing. Some of the climb is steep and rooty, so there may be brief sections that you'll have to hike-a-bike. After two miles of climbing you'll reach the intersection with Double Top (Trail 405). Take a right at this intersection and be rewarded with more climbing! Whether it be due to prolonged exposure to altitude or having already climbed +4200 ft of elevation to reach this point, this climb is tough (several steep sections of cinder block in the trail) and you'll likely find yourself out of juice and needing to push the bike in some sections.

But don't despair, the DH is beckoning. After climbing Double Top for just under 3 miles you'll reach the DH. A brief descent on Double Top will lead you to the intersection with Waterfall Creek Trail. Take a left here and enjoy and amazing 3 miles of steep rooty drops and turns mixed in with some smooth fast flow sections until you reach the intersection with Upper Cement Creek Trail. Take a right and head back to Cement Creek Road and to your vehicle.

Enjoy a post-ride beverage and go find a hot-tub to relax in because you'll need it after this epic (24 miles and 5000 ft of elevation gain).