Heil Valley Ranch

This was my first time out at Heil since the flooding last year and I knew the trail would be different but nothing could have prepared me for what I found. 

The Wapiti trail had some work done before the flood but the finished product makes this first climb so much easier and with much fewer obstacles.  The climb past the service road just past a mile into the ride saw a good deal of work to smooth out the ride.  Before the facelift this section started out quite rocky and tough to pass without the proper skills but now it will only take a little determination and is suitable for all skill levels.  This trail is near perfect all the way to the split with Ponderosa Loop but nothing compared to the Wild Turkey Loop. 

Catch Wild Turkey via Ponderosa to the right at the split.  Ponderosa splits with Wild Turkey again at 2.9 miles and this day I took the route to the right and a route I highly recommend.  Wild Turkey in this direction is almost unrecognizable.  So many man hours had to go into this trail and we should all be thankful to all the volunteers and Boulder Parks and Rec for all the amazing work, kudos!  It's all downhill in this direction and with the additional features and so many twists and turns, this well groomed trail is sure to bring a smile to any fat tire enthusiast. 

I did the Picture Rock trail down and back and work is still ongoing but seems much smoother than I last remember.  The rollercoaster ride down low is still as thrilling as ever and a can't miss.  I finished off the Wild Turkey Loop then met up with the Ponderosa Loop again before heading back down Wapiti.

There are so many cool photo opps out here, like the homestead ruins on Wapiti, the abandoned car on Picture Rock and the scenic overlook on the north side of Wild Turkey that make this ride so unique.  If you're new to Boulder County, Heil Valley Ranch is a fantastic introduction to Boulder mountain biking and well worth the time and effort.

My time was hampered by a flat in the last 4 miles or so and my speed was seriously affected.  The ride down on a squirrely flat tire made for one heck of a ride and I don't recommend riding this on a flat.  Click here for the trail profile; thanks for clicking in and I hope to see you on the trail.

Dirt Life