Chicken Skrat Extended

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

Features Drops/Jumps · Flow · Hike-a-bike · Technical

This trail includes Chicken Skrat, Dakota Ridge Trail, and Apex. Apex trail is only open on even days to MTBs, so plan accordingly. This route stitches together the best front range trail into one trail, with a minimum amount of road riding. This trail starts at Rooney Valley Trail and ends at Apex trailhead.

1. Chicken Skrat Loop (North Table → South Table → Green Mountain → Bear Creek)
The opening half of the ride is all about endurance. Expect long stretches of smooth singletrack, rolling mesa terrain, and steady climbing. Nothing here is overly technical, but the miles add up fast. Green Mountain adds the biggest climb of this section, with optional detours like Box o' Rox if you want early spice.

This portion alone is a solid 50+ mile XC loop for most riders.

2. Dakota Ridge
After your legs are already warm (or cooked), the route hits Dakota Ridge, one of the most technical trails in the Front Range. This section is slow, rocky, exposed, and brutally physical. Expect: ledges, awkward rock moves, punchy climbs, tight lines, constant bike handling

It's a massive contrast to the smooth miles earlier in the ride and will test both your skills and your energy reserves.

3. Apex Park
The final segment drops into Apex, a classic Golden trail system with a mix of: fast singletrack, tight switchbacks, rocky sections, short, steep, climbs

Depending on the day's directional rules, you'll either climb or descend Enchanted Forest and Apex proper. Either way, it's a fun, engaging finish that rewards whatever energy you have left.