Fourth of July | Some Summer

Looking for a good off-road workout up in the mountains but you aren’t in the mood for obstacles then I’ve got the ride for you; Fourth of July in old town Eldora.  Fourth of July is actually a Dirt road (County Road 111) that leads up to the Fourth of July trailhead and the Buckingham Campground.  The road is quite popular on weekends and parking at the base and at the top is very limited.  If you’re out for a hike you can catch the shuttle at Nederland High School to the Hessie trailhead and Fourth of July road.  I chose to start the timer at Nederland High School.

From Nederland High School it’s almost 4 miles west to CR 111 road and the Hessie trailhead.  The climb is steady all the way to Fourth of July trailhead with nothing bigger than softball sized rocks to contend with, perfect for a hardtail but may be a bit bumpy on the way down.  The views are amazing as you travel deeper into the Indian Peaks wilderness.  On the way you’ll pass some unbelievable stream shots which are only surpassed by the scented mountain air and if you’re lucky you might even get a little rain.

Once at the top (approx. 10,100 feet) if you have any energy left you can hike up the Arapahoe Pass 904 trail to the Continental Divide (11,900 feet) or if you’re feeling even more adventurous try some backcountry camping for that true mountain experience.  The ride down can get a little bumpy at times and fast if you lay off the brakes, just be careful because the rocks are loose and the shade can hide some endo-makers.

I’d like to pay special thanks to Mark and Pat of Illinois for the pleasant conversation and Big Fallacy stout; drive safe and maybe we’ll see you next year.

After a long ride in or around Nederland Colorado don’t forget to make your way to the Backcountry Pizza and Subs for a slice of heaven then to the Very Nice Brewing Co. for some fine craft brew.  Summer is Colorado’s best kept secret so dust off that mountain or road bike and head for the hills.  Click here for the ride profile.

Thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail - Dirt Life