In the heart of Vail Valley, Arrowhead provides central access to some of the most beautiful views of the Rocky Mountain Range accessible through road and mountain biking. Below you can find an overview of the biking trails Arrowhead has to offer as well as a biking etiquette guide:
The trail system in Arrowhead consists of several multi-use trails that facilitate both hiking and mountain biking. For mountain bikers, these trails were professionally built as single-track and maintained as such. It is important to note the mountain bikers must always yield to hikers, and downhill riders must yield to uphill riders.
The mountain biking trails present some technical challenges to mountain bikers in the form of steady and sometimes steep climbs, as well as banked hairpin curves on the switchbacks. The trails are otherwise not extremely technical, as tree roots, stumps and boulders have largely been cleared from the single-track. Riding these trails requires a certain level of cardio fitness due to vertical differences between top and bottom. The trails should be considered to be Intermediate-level trails, and should only be ridden using mountain bikes with functional suspensions and tires. Beginners can certainly enjoy riding the trails, but because of the climbs and the sharp turns, most beginners may find themselves walking their bikes on certain stretches.
Ute Trail-Apache Trail
Distance (Round Trip): 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1000 feet
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
The Ute Trail can be found on the Eastern side of the Arrowbahn Base and acts as a two-way (uphill and downhill) trail only from the top down to the intersection with the Apache Trail, and one way going up from the base to the Apache Trail. This is for the safety of both hikers and bikers but also to ensure access to the beautiful views the trail has to offer via bike or by foot!
Mud Springs Trail
Distance (Round Trip): 7 mile loop
Elevation Gain: 5000 feet
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
The trail is closed annually for Elk calving from May 1 – June 30.
Depending on the time of year, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the unique beauties the Rockies have to offer. In the Summertime, the wild flowers abound, the Aspens are getting their signature golden in the Fall, and the Winter offers lovely views of snow-covered mountain tops and a true Colorado Winter wonderland. To access the trail, bike up Cresta Road to Cabin Creek Lane and follow the road to the Mud Springs trail head. The trail climbs gradually until reaching an intersection at a meadow. Look for the remains of the farmer’s cabin on the west side of the trail near the intersection. Note the sign for Arrowhead Mountain Trail and follow the trail going east [left]. At about 2.5 miles a marker indicates the Arrowhead Mountain Trail to the Yurt and the Village to Village Trail. Follow the Arrowhead Mountain Trail for 1 mile. After several switchbacks, you will reach the Yurt. In Winter, if you have reservations, stop in for lunch before heading back down the trail. In summer, relax, have a snack, and enjoy the view from the deck. Return from the Yurt on Arrowhead Mountain Trail, joining the Village to Village Trail after 1 mile. Take the Village to Village Trail going West. After approximately 0.5 miles at the intersection, take the trail downhill to the left continuing on the trail as it meanders its way down the face of the mountain. Look for the Piece of Cake ski run sign and follow that trail to the Arrowhead Base.
Note: Parking for Arrowhead residents is available at the Mud Springs Trail Head. If you choose to park there you will need to return via the Mud Springs Trail to retrieve the car.
