Silverthorne: Mountain Bike Ride Salt Lick Trails

Introduction

Thinking about exploring Colorado’s stunning mountain landscapes on two wheels? The Salt Lick Trail system in Silverthorne offers a balanced mix of fun, scenic views, and a bit of challenge — all with the convenience of shuttle laps and a brewery finish. This guided tour, offered by Colorado Adventure Guides, is ideal for intermediate riders looking to enjoy Colorado’s outdoors without the hassle of navigation or strenuous climbs that might be too much for beginners.

What we love about this experience is the blend of beautiful forest scenery, easy-to-access routes, and the chance to lap on trails with shuttle support — making it easier to focus on riding and enjoying the views. Plus, the post-ride brewery stop adds a relaxing touch to the day.

A potential consideration? The ride involves some climbs, depending on how many laps you do, so riders should be comfortable with moderate terrain. That said, the guides prioritize safety and fun, ensuring everyone gets the most out of their day.

This tour is perfect for adventurers who want a balanced, scenic ride with a social finish, whether you’re new to mountain biking or a seasoned rider wanting a relaxed but exciting experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Suitable for intermediate riders with some experience on mountain bikes
• Shuttle support allows for multiple laps without exhausting climbs
• Scenic trail network winds through forests with panoramic lake and mountain views
• Guided experience with safety-focused, expert guides
• Post-ride brewery stop offers a well-earned refreshment
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour offers an inviting mix of scenic beauty and practical riding support. The Salt Lick Trail system is part of Red Mountain Open Space, providing a variety of terrain that’s engaging but not overwhelming. For many, the shuttle-assisted laps are a real highlight — they let you maximize your ride time and focus on enjoying the trail rather than pedaling up endless hills.

You’ll love the easy access from Silverthorne, just minutes from town, and the fact that the trail winds through dense lodgepole pines and aspens, with views of Lake Dillon and the Continental Divide — perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the surroundings. The route is designed for intermediate skill levels, so if you’re comfortable on a mountain bike, you should find it just challenging enough to be satisfying without feeling intimidating.

The guides are experienced, personable, and highly safety-conscious, often emphasizing fun over pushing limits. As one review mentions, they “prioritize safety and enjoyable experiences for all participants,” making it a comfortable environment for riders of varying skill levels.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Meeting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at the Colorado Adventure Guides headquarters in Silverthorne or at a nearby bike rental shop, depending on whether you bring your own bike or rent one. The meeting time is early, with arrivals by 8:30 am allowing for a smooth start. After a quick safety briefing and overview of the day’s plan, you’ll load your bike onto the shuttle, which is a key part of the experience, as it takes you to the trailhead efficiently.

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The Ride: Multiple Laps with Shuttle Support

The Salt Lick Trails system offers a series of flowing, rolling terrain that’s perfect for multiple laps. According to reviews, the shuttle is a real game-changer — it “ensures an efficient start to each run,” allowing you to focus on riding and enjoying the scenery rather than exhausting climbs. While some climbing may be involved depending on how many laps you choose, the shuttle’s help makes repeated laps feasible and fun.

The trails wind through dense forests of lodgepole pines and aspen, with some sections offering gentle downhill runs, others more moderate climbs. Riders should expect a mix of scenic forest rides and open views of Lake Dillon and the surrounding mountains. The terrain is designed for intermediate skill levels, making it accessible but still engaging enough to keep your adrenaline up.

Post-Ride and Brewery Stop

After your laps, the shuttle returns you to Silverthorne, where a highlight awaits: a visit to a local brewery. This part of the experience is as much about relaxation and socializing as it is about the riding. Many reviews mention the “well-deserved refreshment” and the opportunity to chat about the day’s best moments with fellow riders.

Guides and Safety

The guides, from Colorado Adventure Guides and Colorado Rafting Company, are experts with over 20 years of experience leading outdoor adventures. They are described as friendly, safety-oriented, and knowledgeable, ensuring your ride is smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, they tailor their guidance to your comfort level.

Additional Details

• Duration: The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, which includes loading, riding, and the brewery stop. This makes it a great half-day activity.
• Price: At $193 per person, it offers good value considering the guide service, shuttle support, and the scenic quality of the trails. It’s a balanced price point for a guided outdoor experience in Colorado.
• Group Size: The experience is private, so you’ll be riding with your own group — perfect for families, friends, or couples looking for a personalized adventure.
• Cancellation and Booking: Flexible options are available, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

Why Choose This Tour?

This Salt Lick Trails ride is best suited for those who want a scenic, supportive, and social mountain biking experience. If you’re new to mountain biking but eager for a challenge, or an experienced rider looking for a relaxed, picturesque route, you’ll find it appealing. The shuttle support means you can enjoy multiple laps without overexertion, and the brewery stop provides a perfect way to unwind.

On top of that, the guides’ focus on safety and enjoyment makes it a stress-free way to explore Colorado’s outdoors. The experience also offers excellent value for those wanting a combination of activity, scenery, and local flavor.

Final Thoughts

This guided mountain bike ride on the Salt Lick Trails in Silverthorne offers a well-rounded outdoor adventure. It combines beautiful forest scenery, manageable terrain, and the convenience of shuttle laps to maximize your riding time. The addition of a brewery stop adds a social, relaxed element to the day, rounding out a fantastic half-day experience.

Whether you’re visiting Colorado for a few days or a local looking for a scenic ride close to town, this tour delivers an enjoyable, scenic, and safe mountain biking experience. It’s ideal for intermediate riders who appreciate a good blend of challenge, comfort, and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the skill level required for this tour?
It’s suitable for intermediate riders who are comfortable on mountain bikes and can handle moderate terrain, including some climbs.

Can I bring my own bike?
Yes, if you have your own bike, you can meet at the Colorado Adventure Guides office. Otherwise, the guide will assist you in fitting a rental bike from a local shop.

How many laps can I expect to do?
The itinerary includes multiple laps, depending on your pace and preference, as the shuttle helps you avoid climbing back up each time.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided tour, shuttle transportation, and safety support. The brewery stop is part of the post-ride experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, but the activity is geared towards those comfortable with moderate cycling terrain.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
While primarily for intermediate riders, beginners with some mountain biking experience might enjoy it, but complete novices should consider starting with easier trails.

How long does the ride last?
The total experience lasts about 4 hours, from meeting at the shop to returning after riding and the brewery stop.

What should I bring?
Bring your mountain biking gear, water, sun protection, and perhaps a snack. The guides provide safety equipment and assistance.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, the guides have over 20 years of experience leading outdoor adventures and are dedicated to safety and fun.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Colorado’s mountain bike season generally runs from late spring through early fall, when trails are dry and weather is favorable.

In summary, if you’re looking for a scenic, well-supported mountain biking day in Colorado that balances adventure with relaxation, the Salt Lick Trails tour offers excellent value. With knowledgeable guides, shuttle laps, and a brewery finish, it’s a memorable way to experience Silverthorne’s natural beauty without the hassle of route planning or strenuous climbs.

You can check if your dates are available here: