Arkansas Valley Mining Loop

Other route on E Main St, Buena Vista, Chaffee County, Colorado

"A solid three-day bikepacking loop starting in Buena Vista to Salida, Sargents, Pitkin, St. Elmo and back to BV. Camping at established campgrounds at O'Haver and Pitkin CGs. Several sites of Colorado mining history along the way with epic views of the southern end of the Collegiate Peaks. Marshall Pass and Alpine Tunnel are only rideable from early June to early October, depending on snowfall at that altitude. The eastern half of the loop can be ridden April through October for the most part. Resupply in Salida, Sargents, Pitkin general store, St. Elmo general store (seasonal check website) and Princeton Hot Springs store. Very little to zero water between BV and Salida. Some water between Sargents and Princeton Hot Springs. Aspen Ridge between BV and Salida is a bit rocky in spots. The climb from Pitkin to Alpine Tunnel is the highlight of this loop. A bit of hike-a-bike over the closed tunnel to the Colorado Trail, which is pretty rough in spots. Managed to get by with 40mm tires without any issues."