Visit Fruita for your next mountain biking trip
Desert landscapes and canyon rides! Explore 380 miles of legendary trails in Colorado’s wild west.
The Grand Valley is a region in western Colorado that includes the city of Grand Junction and the town of Fruita. The area is known for its stunning desert landscapes, canyons, and mesas. Fruita has become a hub for outdoor recreation, particularly mountain biking. The region is also known for its fruit orchards and wineries.
The area has a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and cool winters. The best time for mountain biking is generally spring and fall, when the weather is more pleasant. Summer can be hot, so it's important to ride early in the morning or late in the evening. Be prepared for dry conditions and bring plenty of water. Check trail conditions before riding, as they can be affected by weather.
The Grand Valley, especially Fruita, is a renowned mountain biking destination, offering 380 miles of a network of trails that are known for their flowy singletrack, technical challenges, and scenic views. The area is famous for the 18 Road Trail System and the Kokopelli Loops. The terrain is characterized by desert landscapes, canyons, and mesas.
- Fruita (Kokopelli Loops Area): This is quintessential Fruita riding.
- Mary's Loop: A classic introductory loop with stunning Colorado River views, often combined with other trails.
- Horsethief Bench Loop (accessed via Mary's): Famous for its challenging, exposed drop-in and technical riding with incredible scenery.
- Moore Fun: A very technical and challenging trail for advanced riders.
- Rustler's Loop: A beginner-friendly loop perfect for getting started.
- 18 Road Trails / North Fruita Desert: Known for fast, flowy, and playful trails.
- PBR (Pumps, Bumps, and Rollers): A super fun, rollercoaster-like trail.
- Zippity Do Da: Another classic flow trail with lots of whoops.
- Kessel Run: A fast, bermed descent.
- Grand Junction (Lunch Loops / Tabeguache Trailhead): Offers more technical and challenging riding.
- The Ribbon: A unique and iconic slickrock descent that feels like riding down a giant stone slide (often shuttled or a big climb).
- Holy Cross: A very technical and demanding trail.
- Andy's Loop / Gunny Loop: Popular and challenging loops with great views.
- Palisade Plunge: A newer, epic ~32-mile backcountry trail descending from the top of the Grand Mesa down to Palisade. Requires shuttling and is for experienced riders.
