Sidewinder Loop

About

The Sidewinder Loop is a 38.5-mile mountain biking route near Delta, Colorado, designed for experienced riders seeking technical singletrack and high-desert scenery. The trail spans 22 miles of dedicated singletrack with an additional 16.5 miles on connecting county roads to form the loop. Located at approximately 4,957 feet in elevation, the route traverses dry washes and rocky slopes dotted with piñon pine and juniper trees. The terrain is characterized by relentless technical sections, slickrock, ledges, and narrow canyon chutes that test bike handling skills. The loop offers views of the Uncompahgre Plateau and the Sneffels Range. The ride typically takes about 13 hours to complete. Riders generally start at the Eagle Valley Trail trailhead, ride west on Peach Valley Road for 14.5 miles, and then take a right onto paved 2200 Road before turning right onto dirt H75. This leads to the north Sidewinder Trailhead, where 19 miles of technical singletrack begin. The trail flows best when ridden from north to south, though the return leg involves climbing nearly 3,000 feet and descending about 2,000 feet. The trail was completed in 2010 through a collaboration between the Bureau of Land Management, Bicycle Colorado, and local groups. It is open from April through October, with parking available at the trailhead. The route allows pets and requires riders to stay on legal roads, avoiding trespass across private land between H75 and Ute Road. While primarily for advanced riders, intermediates can navigate easier sections between access points.