We just rode this route again from it's original posting in 2020, and it was just as delightful as we remembered!
We camped and biked from the Rustic Creek Ranch Hipcamp site, which we would recommend (mainly because they have Alpaca and baby goats!!!)*. Because of the camp location, we started in the middle of the loop and rode it in the opposite direction this time.
*Keep in mind, if you don't stay at the Ranch, it is considered private property, so unfortunately, no baby goats for you.
The first and last 6 miles of this Buffalo Creek route are a real treat! The road/double-track trail is closed to motor vehicles and it feels like a hiking trail that goes through Ponderosa Pine trees, shade and alongside the creek.
Trail conditions were pristine after a little rain the night before: perfectly tacky and only the tiniest bit of thick sand at a trail intersection (at about mile 4).
On memorial day weekend, a few pretty wild flowers could already be seen along the trail.
On the way out it is an easy and gradual uphill, and on the way back you barely have to peddle to return to the parking lot.
A 100% gravel route always scores bonus points. (To be truthful, the map indicates all dirt roads, but there is a small section of the loop that was more like low-budget pavement near the lake.)
Lake Wellington is a lovely, mid-way stop to hang or swim. Day Use is open from Sun-up to Sun-down , however, you must register prior to 4:30 pm of your arrival date and it costs $14 per adult.
We saw a regal Great Blue Heron perched on a dock of a little pond near the Lake!
There are some unavoidable brain-rattling washboards on Wellington Lake Road/County Road 68!
Lake Wellington did not have drinking water available. Plan to take all the water you might need or pack a filter.
Do this ride if you are wanting a 100% gravel, short, non-technical ride with a few punchy hills on forested, low traffic trails/roads.
This is a beginner/intermediate route because it has short mileage and there is nothing technical but there are some steep grades (8%-13%) in miles 5-9 to be aware of.
There are no services along this route except at Wellington Lake. However, that mainly just consists of bathrooms. Both times we have visited, drinking water was not available. Pack all the nutrition and hydration you will need for all 23 miles.
We parked at the Buffalo Creek Mountain Bike Parking Lot which is just off South Buffalo Creek Road. It took us about an hour to drive from Denver. There is plenty of free parking and a public vault toilet at this location.
Laura & Rose
Laura Karpinski and Rose Barcklow are the creators of Gravel Bike Adventures. Click on the About page to learn more about them.
