Rainbow to Columbine Lake Out and Back

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

Features Hike-a-bike · Technical

Silverton town start at Rainbow Trail to Columbine Lake out and back. Hike a bike and tons of vert but a very fun high country ride and fun descent.

The ride starts at the edge of the town of Silverton. You hop right onto Rainbow Trail for the climb. The overall climb of Rainbow trail is very gradual and relaxed. Easy to pedal and just keep on spinning. Once topped out, you'll cross the highway and do a quick pedal of Chattanooga #820 before starting up Columbine Lake Trail. The first two miles are very steep and primarily hike a bike. The top miles flattens out heading towards the lake and has one spot of exposure. Keep it safe and you are good to go. The lake is absolutely gorgeous! Now the descent starts. Back through the flatter top mile with the one exposure point and into the very steep and fast switchbacks. Nothing crazy or technical but quite steep. Finish that out and hop back onto Rainbow trail on your way back towards the truck/town. There have been changes made in recent years that have really increased the fun factor on this trail. There is now an alternative line on the downhill closer to the bottom 1/3 of the trail that is all machine built and contains berms and several lips, rollers, and even a wood feature. Fun section that can be looped in a matter of minutes and makes for a good session too.