401 Trail

High-Alpine Singletrack Riding

Narrow trails wind through wildflower-filled valleys with smooth and technical sections, offering a classic MTB experience at over…

Trail Running in Wildflower Meadows

Runners access moderate physical-rated paths with 1,152 feet of climb and panoramic views, blooming vibrantly in summer.[2][3] The…

Hiking Remote Peaks

The loop covers 28.9 miles with 3,132 feet of elevation gain, traversing dense forests and alpine tundra for solitude and scenery.…

The 401 Trail delivers one of Colorado's most iconic descents, with 8 miles of fast singletrack dropping 2,033 feet through tacky dirt, roots, rocks, and meadows.[2][3][4] Riders praise its flow, remoteness, and big-mountain thrill at elevations up to 11,400 feet.[1][4]

Narrow trails wind through wildflower-filled valleys with smooth and technical sections, offering a classic MTB experience at over 10,000 feet.[3][4] The descent from Schofield Pass provides non-stop action and stunning vistas.[1][2]

Runners access moderate physical-rated paths with 1,152 feet of climb and panoramic views, blooming vibrantly in summer.[2][3] The Gothic network adds mileage for endurance challenges.[3]

The loop covers 28.9 miles with 3,132 feet of elevation gain, traversing dense forests and alpine tundra for solitude and scenery.[1][3] High-altitude remoteness enhances the adventure.[4]

Meadows explode with color in peak season, framed by Gothic's peaks and valleys ideal for capturing alpine blooms.[2][3] Stream crossings and varied terrain add dynamic shots.[4]

The initial 1.3-mile grind through trees tests legs with consistent steepness before rewarding with descent.[1][4] Blue-rated climb suits strong XC and AM riders.[3]

Summit views at 11,400 feet overlook Crested Butte's ranges, with big-mountain panoramas unmatched in the Rockies.[2][4][5] Every switchback reveals new angles.[1]

Combine biking, running, or hiking in the 22.9-28.9 mile loops with 1,700-3,100 feet gain for full-day epics.[1][3] Gothic network extends options.[3]

Experience crisp air, stream crossings, and wildlife amid 9,600-11,400 foot elevations for pure backcountry feel.[3][4] Remoteness ensures quiet escapes.[1]

Fast, berm-free singletrack with -35.9% max grade flows through meadows, ideal for gravity enthusiasts.[3][4] Tacky dirt grips even in variable conditions.[3]

Aspen turns gold in autumn, contrasting evergreen climbs and descents for colorful high-country rides.[3] Shorter days add crisp adventure.[1]

Leashed dogs join on all trails, romping through open meadows and streams in this pet-welcoming USFS area.[3] Family outings thrive here.[3]

Roots, rocks, and rough patches challenge skills on the 5-mile downhill, blending smooth flow with tech features.[3][4]

Early starts from Schofield Pass yield golden-hour views over Gothic Valley at dawn.[1][4] Moderate effort rewards solitude.[3]

Multiple creek fords add splashy fun to descents, with tacky banks preventing slips.[4][3] Rain-rideable dirt enhances play.[3]

Trail serves as access to dispersed USFS sites near Gothic, with day rides building stamina for overnights.[3][1]

9,690-11,349 foot range hones high-altitude fitness for bigger objectives like 14ers.[3][4] Gradual gains suit progression.[1]

Flowing descents and views star in helmet cams, as seen in pro edits of this hype trail.[5][6] Varied terrain fuels content.[2]

Low-traffic singletrack at Schofield Pass offers true isolation amid vast wilderness.[1][4] Cell service sparse for unplugging.[3]

Shuttle-accessible from Crested Butte, the trail unites crews for shared climbs and whoops on descent.[2][1]

Late fall or early spring scouting reveals snow lines for future groomed rides nearby.[3] Variable conditions build adaptability.[3]

USFS-managed path invites volunteers for maintenance, preserving tacky singletrack for generations.[3][1]

Alpine species flock to wildflower zones and streams during migrations.[2][3] Quiet trails enhance spotting.[4]

Track 1:32 average descent or 2:32 uphill times to gauge progress on this benchmark trail.[3] Stats motivate repeats.[1]

401 links to town rides, ski areas, and more, positioning it as a hub for multi-day Colorado itineraries.[2][3]

Details the 401 Trail Loop's 28.9-mile length, 3,132 feet of climbing, and tough tree-lined ascent from Schofield Pass. https://www.mtbproject.com/trail/338027/401-trail-loop[1]

Reviews the trail's hype with mountain views, wildflowers, and iconic Crested Butte descent as a must-ride. https://www.twowheeledwanderer.com/posts/401-trail-crested-butt