Apex - Mountain Biking

Review

Intro

Apex is a famous mountain biking area for both Denverites and Boulderites - although it truly lies between Morrison and Golden, Colorado. The name alone is enough to strike intimidation into would-be visitors and first timers. With so much to explore in the Golden, CO area, Apex is really just one of many above-average options at medium altitude for out-of-town mountain bikers as well as locals.

What Makes It Great

You’re likely to have perfectly dry weather here, so the need for rain gear is rare, except during monsoon season, which even then is predictable and not day-ending. It’s pretty much Colorado at its finest. Once you check this trail system out, you’ll have a good feel for the geography, geology, and trail conditions of this Front Range area.

Look for the Apex trail head sign and head west up what they call Apex Gulch. About a mile up, Pick n’ Sledge trail breaks off to meet the Grubstake Loop. (Going right winds around the hill where you can take the Sluicebox Trail back to Apex. Making a right back up the gulch takes you to the Enchanted Forest, the bottom of a two-way loop. This is why you’ll have more fun the second, third, fourth, fifth, six and seventh times you do this ride. You get the point.

Who is Going to Love It

It’s easy to find, easy to access, and easy to park in, but it's not quite as easy to ride. Though moderate by Colorado standards, trails here stretch all the way to the top of the steep and iconic Lookout Mountain, and the downhills can be pretty speedy.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Park in the far north corner of the Heritage Square Center of County Road 93 between US Highway 40/Colfax Avenue and I-70. You’ll see cars full of bikers and hikers alike, as well as some porta-potties.