moderate
4–6 hours
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to handle sustained pedaling and moderate climbs.
Ride through the Arkansas Hills with Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center, where guided mountain biking trips offer everything from family-friendly routes to challenging single-track. Discover varied trails, stunning geology, and top-notch gear all included in a full-day trip near Buena Vista, Colorado.
Buena Vista, Colorado, offers a singular mountain biking playground set against the rugged backdrop of the Arkansas Hills. Here, the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center invites riders of all levels to tackle distinctive trails that weave through pine forests, aspen groves, and open meadows. This area sits near Mt. Princeton Wilderness and the Collegiate Peaks, where granite spires punctuate the skyline and wildflower-filled valleys unfold beneath. The company stands out by providing guided mountain biking trips catering to a range of riding abilities — from families seeking a gentle putt along Aspen Ridge to adrenaline junkies looking to challenge themselves on the Cottonwood/Backbone trails.
The guided trips include all necessary equipment — durable bikes built for trail conditions and properly fitted helmets — plus a hearty lunch, making for a fully immersive day on the trail without any logistical headaches. Buffalo Peaks trail offers stunning panoramic views, capitalizing on the region’s unique geology shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Riders might spot mule deer or occasionally hear the distant call of a red-tailed hawk.
Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center’s approach combines local knowledge with careful trail selection, ensuring every participant enjoys the terrain suited to their skill, safety, and desire for adventure. The mountain biking routes blend technical single-track, flowing bermed corners, and sections of smooth fire roads, introducing new riders to the rhythm of Western Colorado trails while maintaining excitement for seasoned riders.
Buena Vista’s location—roughly 45 minutes west of Colorado Springs—makes it an accessible hub for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to step off the beaten path and experience the Rocky Mountains’ quieter side. The company’s guided services support sustainable trail use and local stewardship, keeping this pristine environment welcoming for future visitors. If your idea of a Colorado mountain bike day includes diverse landscapes, manageable logistics, and expert guidance, Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center delivers on all fronts.
Select a route that fits your skill level, from the gentle Aspen Ridge to the technical Cottonwood/Backbone.
Bring plenty of water, even though lunch is provided, as mountain biking demands constant hydration.
Ensure your bike and helmet fit properly and are functioning well to avoid mechanical issues on the trail.
Afternoon storms can roll in quickly in Colorado; plan rides earlier in the day when possible.
The Arkansas Hills trails traverse lands historically used by Ute tribes and later miners during Colorado’s 19th-century gold rush.
Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center emphasizes sustainable trail use to minimize environmental impact and preserve local habitats.
Protects your head from impacts on varied terrain.
Ensures you stay hydrated throughout the ride.
Improves comfort on the bike over longer distances.
spring|summer|fall specific
Allows adaptation to rapidly changing mountain weather.
fall|spring|summer specific