Today’s Faces of Boulder spotlight features the mountain bikers who head into the foothills to ride the fast, flowing singletrack of Betasso Preserve. It’s one of the area’s most reliable go-to loops — close to town, easy to reach, and always delivering that perfect mix of movement, forest, and fresh air. If you ride here, you know exactly why Betasso is a favorite for so many Boulder locals.

Why Riders Love Betasso

Betasso Preserve is all about smooth, fun riding. The main Canyon Loop offers gentle climbs, rolling turns, shaded forest sections, and canyon overlooks that give you quick hits of scenery without a punishing effort. It’s the ultimate “after-work reset ride,” loved by students, longtime locals, and weekend visitors alike.

For riders wanting a bit more challenge, the Benjamin Loop adds extra mileage and a little more climbing while keeping that same fast, flowy feel. Together, the loops create a ride that feels refreshing, not overwhelming — the kind you finish smiling instead of exhausted.

One-way single track at Betasso Preserve, Boulder, CO

How to Get There

Getting to Betasso from Boulder is quick and simple:

– Head west up Boulder Canyon Drive (CO-119)
– Turn right onto Sugarloaf Road
– After two wide turns, the Canyon Loop Trailhead appears on your left

There’s also an upper access point via Betasso Road, but most riders use the main Sugarloaf entrance because it connects directly to both loops.

Important reminder for mountain bikers: No bikes are allowed on Wednesdays and Saturdays until 3 p.m. This alternating-use schedule helps balance trail traffic and ensures a better experience for everyone.

Fun Facts About Betasso Preserve

– The land was originally a ranch run by the Betasso family, early pioneers in the Boulder Canyon area
– Boulder County purchased the property in the 1970s, making it one of the region’s first major open-space success stories
– The preserve spans over 1,100 acres of forested ridges, meadows, and canyon overlooks
– Trail direction switches periodically, giving regular riders a fresh experience each time
– Wildlife sightings — deer, foxes, hawks, and the occasional bear — are part of the charm

Why It Deserves a Faces of Boulder Feature

Betasso Preserve captures the heart of Boulder’s outdoor culture. Riders show up here for the same reasons people fall in love with this town: freedom, movement, community, and the chance to escape into nature without ever going far. Every rider on these loops — from beginners finding their flow to experienced locals chasing quick laps — represents another face of Boulder’s adventurous spirit.

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