Reviewed by: Top Cat , from Arvada

Summary:
The climb at the start of the loop as described is much like any Front Range climb - maybe 2000 ft by the time you top out. The scenery definitely enhances the climb as you follow the creek for most of it. Go early in the season while the creek is flowing and the temps aren't too hot. We went in May and it was already nearly uncomfortably warm. The Rainbow Trail singletrack is decent, but was very loose, dry and dusty - I suspect from the motorcycle use that this trail sees as well. We encountered maybe 5 motorcyclists total on the 6 miles of singletrack - not bad, but always a bummer if you're a dedicated non-motorized recreator like me. Not the best ride in the Arkansas River Valley, but worth doing nonetheless, especially since you can end the ride by coasting into Salida where excellent microbrews await you at Amica's.

Recommended Route:
As described at the top. The other direction would make for a hellacious loose climb.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Monarch Crest