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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
519 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
18.0 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-3h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Expert (Double Diamond)
Suitable only for experts looking for a challenging adventure.
Physical DIFF
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

South Sourdough Trail

South Sourdough MTB trail near Boulder, Colorado
Measurement:

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Table of contents

South Sourdough Trail is a ride at altitude! Starting at 9200ft with a climb right out of the gates this is one to be acclimated for, but don’t let that put you off. This is one of our favourite treed mountain rides, travelling through the Roosevelt National Forest - it’s a beautiful, peaceful challenge.

Route Description for South Sourdough Trail

Sourdough Trail is a straightforward out-and-back trail that travels through the beautiful Roosevelt National Forest. From the trailhead, the trail steadily climbs and gains elevation from its starting point of 9200ft. After a brief level section of the route at a clearing in the trees, the trail will soon have you digging deep and gasping for breath as you continue to climb. After about 1600ft of climbing, the trail levels off and starts to trend downhill. The end of the trail puts you at the gate for the Brainard Lake Recreation Area within the Indian Peak Wilderness. The way back is to follow your tracks back down to the trailhead.

Insider Hints for South Sourdough Trail

  • Sourdough Trail can be extended at the gates for Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Cross the road and continue on North Sourdough Trail and ride until you have had enough. Eventually, North Sourdough Trail ends at Peaceful Valley.

Getting to the South Sourdough Trail Trailhead

From Boulder take CO-119/Boulder Canyon Dr. to the town of Nederland. At the traffic circle, take the 2nd exit onto W 2nd St. Continue onto CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway towards Estes Park for 6.8mi. There will be a Camping & Hiking sign indicating a left turn towards Rainbow Lakes onto Co Rd. 116. Trailhead parking is on the left side approximately half a mile down the dirt road.

Route Information

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

South Sourdough Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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