Dillon offers a bit of everything — a world-class paved lake loop plus quiet singletrack on the hills above the reservoir.
Mountain biking in Dillon at a glance
| Signature trails | Dillon Reservoir rec-path loop, Oro Grande, Tenderfoot Mountain |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy paved loop to intermediate singletrack |
| Trailhead notes | Rec-path access near the Dillon Dam and marina |
| Best season | May–October; the paved loop opens earliest |
Best rides in and around Dillon
- Dillon Reservoir loop — the iconic ~18-mile paved rec-path circuit around the lake, doable by almost anyone.
- Oro Grande Trail — flowy singletrack connecting Dillon toward Keystone.
- Tenderfoot Mountain — a network of climbing singletrack with big reservoir views.
- Salt Lick / Soda Creek — mellow local singletrack options.
Conditions change fast at altitude — check current trail status, closures, and parking before you head out, and carry water, layers, and a basic repair kit.
Planning your ride
The paved reservoir loop is rideable from spring through fall and is a must-do for any ability — you can start from Dillon, Frisco, or Farmers Korner and link the towns. For dirt, Tenderfoot and Oro Grande dry out by early summer. Want to walk the shoreline instead? See hiking in Dillon.
Before you go
Colorado afternoons build thunderstorms fast, so start early and be off high, exposed terrain by early afternoon. Ride within your limits at altitude, yield to hikers and uphill traffic, and pack the essentials — water, layers, tube/pump, and snacks. New to the elevation? Read up on the altitude first, and see the full Colorado mountain biking guide, and gear up with our mountain bike gear guide.
Where to stay near the trails
Where to stayFind hotels in DillonStay by the reservoir and rec pathCheck availability →Base yourself close to the trailheads — see our Summit County lodging guide, or compare rooms and rentals in Dillon.
Mountain biking in Dillon FAQ
Can you bike around Dillon Reservoir?
Yes. A paved recreation-path loop circles Dillon Reservoir for roughly 18 miles, linking Dillon, Frisco, and Farmers Korner with continuous lake and mountain views. It is one of the most popular family-friendly rides in Summit County.
How long is the Dillon Reservoir loop?
The full paved loop around Dillon Reservoir is roughly 18 miles, with some rolling hills but no technical riding, making it accessible to most fit riders on any type of bike.
Where is the singletrack near Dillon?
For dirt riding near Dillon, head to Tenderfoot Mountain for climbing singletrack with reservoir views, or the Oro Grande Trail, which links Dillon toward Keystone with flowy intermediate terrain.