Sidewinder Trail

About

The Sidewinder Trail is a technical, multi-use route in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area near Delta, Colorado. It consists of approximately 20 miles of desert singletrack and slickrock, paralleling the Gunnison River. The trail is managed by the BLM and was constructed in 2010. It is popular for mountain biking and hiking, though it sees motorbikes and horses as well. The route is generally considered difficult due to steep inclines, uneven terrain, and technical moves around rocks and cliff edges. The trail is mostly exposed to the sun and dries out quickly, making it warm, often about 10 degrees warmer than Delta or Montrose. Hikers should bring plenty of water and avoid the trail if rain is likely, as mud can make it impassable. Fall and spring are the preferred seasons, but it is often rideable in winter and open from January through November. Parking is available at the trailhead off H75 road. The trail can be ridden or hiked in either direction, but flowing from south to north is recommended for the whole route. Access roads allow users to tackle segments of the trail rather than the full length.