Bonsai Loop

About

Bonsai Loop is a moderate mountain biking trail in Rifle, Colorado, located near the Rifle water plant and overlooking Interstate 70. The trail is a directional loop that begins with a left turn at the initial fork, leading to a hillside traverse. Riders pass a distinctive tree growing from a crack in a boulder, which gives the trail its name. The route ascends to an eastern ridge offering views in all directions, including telescopic vistas to the east and west. The descent involves a quick rollercoaster section before climbing again underneath a sandstone overhang. The trail features a tight squeeze of large boulders and an intermediate rock roll before reconnecting to the start. The trail was created in the fall of 2019. It is accessible from a parking area, is pet friendly, and is open from April through October. The elevation is listed as 5,347 feet in database records, though existing descriptions cite 1,683 feet.