Skull & Crossbones Downhill

About

Skull & Crossbones Downhill is a 1.9-mile mountain biking trail in Montrose, Colorado, rated difficult with an elevation of approximately 5,807 feet. The route typically takes about one hour to complete and is accessible from April through October. Riders access the trailhead via Kurt's Trail at the top, following signs for Skull & Crossbones. The descent begins on a fast section along an adobe ridge before transitioning through juniper trees and becoming steeper with loose rocks. Further down, the trail features additional adobe ridges where riders can increase speed. The trail terminates at Elephant Skin Road. Parking is available near the start, and pets are permitted. A key practical consideration for this trail is its surface composition; the adobe clay becomes sticky and difficult to ride when wet, so dry conditions are recommended. Riders seeking to extend their loop can turn left (west) at the end of the trail near Elephant Skin Road to access the Z-Ditch connector.