Mountain Bike Over A Mountain Pass [HOW TO]

The majority of the monsoon season is over, the days will get shorter, but the high alpine singletrack is in prime condition to be explored.  The snow has melted, and the Wheeler trail is one classic trail that awaits for the adventurous soul.  I had my first introduction to this trail during the Breckenridge Crest Mountain Marathon in 1997.  And in that race, you travel south on the Burro Trail to connect with the Wheeler near Francie's Cabin, a part of the local hut system.   

The trail then traverses the Ten Mile Range, it's pass nestled between Peak 8 and 9.  It drops towards Copper Mountain, or you can sign up for another hill climb and connect with the Miner's Creek trail that will bring you to connect with the Peaks trail that you can exit to Frisco, or complete the big loop used in the marathon and bring the Peaks trail all the way back to Breck.  No matter which route you choose, it's a long day.  But, oh so worth it.

This trail is an advanced ride, hike, power walk, however you attempt it, just know that it will be a long haul to get up to the ridge.  However, once you're up there it has the best view in Breckenridge hands down,  as you now have an amazing 360 degree view of mountains everywhere.  This is why they call it Summit County.  

Take a moment to look along the spine of the Ten Mile range north to the Gore Range, west to Holy Cross and the Maroon Bells area, and east to Mountain Baldy and the Continental Divide.  It does put you in exposed terrain for quite some time, so be sure to plan ahead, pack enough food and water, bring a map and know where you are at all times, and let someone know where you're going and when you'll be back.  We all want adventure, but no one wants an epic.  "Boring" rides are best.  

If you would like to schedule a custom alpine photo shoot with a local photographer, rent bikes, or arrange for transportation, please contact us to arrange all the details!  We are going above and beyond the normal Breckenridge wedding planner by sharing our local knowledge and expertise in every aspect available, and that includes which trails to explore!  Let us know if you have a real mountain adventure with your bridal party or family, so that we can share your trip details, tips and advice for future travelers to our area for their destination wedding in the Rockies.  Happy Trails!

>>  Photos courtesy of Carl Scofield.  Please visit his website by clicking here.  And his Facebook page by clicking here.