Silverthorne offers strong climbing singletrack above the valley plus easy rec-path riding along the Blue River.
Mountain biking in Silverthorne at a glance
| Signature trails | Ptarmigan Trail, Angler Mountain, Blue River rec path |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy paved path to strenuous climbing singletrack |
| Trailhead notes | Ptarmigan and Angler Mountain trailheads near town |
| Best season | May–October; high sections clear by summer |
Best rides in and around Silverthorne
- Ptarmigan Trail — a big, rewarding climb to wildflower meadows and sweeping views over the valley.
- Angler Mountain Ranch trails — a local network of flowy climbing singletrack.
- Blue River rec path — paved and easy, linking Silverthorne toward Dillon and the outlets.
- North Pond loops — mellow options close to town.
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
Lower trails and the rec path open in spring; the upper Ptarmigan clears by early summer. Important: the adjacent Eagles Nest Wilderness is closed to bikes by law, so stay on the designated non-wilderness trails. Silverthorne’s value lodging and I-70 access make it an easy base. Prefer hiking? See hiking in Silverthorne.
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 SilverthorneValue base with I-70 accessCheck availability →Base yourself close to the trailheads — see our Summit County lodging guide, or compare rooms and rentals in Silverthorne.
Mountain biking in Silverthorne FAQ
Where can you mountain bike in Silverthorne?
Silverthorne’s best-known rides are the Ptarmigan Trail, a strenuous climb to wildflower meadows and views, and the Angler Mountain Ranch trail network, plus the paved Blue River rec path for easy family riding.
Is the Ptarmigan Trail good for mountain biking?
Yes, for fit riders. The Ptarmigan Trail is a long, steady climb that rewards you with wildflower meadows and expansive valley views, but it is strenuous and high, so bring water, layers, and plenty of time.
Can you mountain bike in Eagles Nest Wilderness?
No. Like all designated wilderness areas, the Eagles Nest Wilderness near Silverthorne prohibits bicycles. Stick to the non-wilderness trails such as Ptarmigan's lower sections and Angler Mountain, and check trail signage.