Silverthorne, Colorado, is a bike lover’s paradise. Its diverse terrain offers everything from mellow trails to challenging singletrack, with stunning mountain scenery around every corner.
We especially like the Salt Lick Trails tour, which combines scenic riding with a little social fun—think hot laps via shuttle and a refreshing brewery stop. It’s a solid choice whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider looking for a quick adrenaline boost.
If you’re up for a full-day adventure with skill-building, the Colorado: Guided Mountain Bike Ride offers an immersive experience on Colorado’s iconic trails.
Below, you’ll find two of the best options for mountain biking in Silverthorne, each with its own flavor, so you can pick the one that best matches your adventure style.
1. Colorado: Guided Mountain Bike Ride
This full-day tour is perfect if you’re eager to really learn about Colorado’s mountain biking scene. It includes a choice of iconic trails, mellow discovery routes, or classic singletrack loops. The tour starts with meeting your guide at the CAG office or a designated rendezvous point and gearing up for a day of riding and instruction.
What sets this experience apart is the focus on technique and skill honing—you’ll spend part of the day in field instruction, making it ideal for riders looking to improve their mountain biking abilities.
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, but many opt for the full day, giving plenty of time to explore multiple trail types. The routes are carefully selected to match your skill level, whether you’re a beginner wanting a gentle introduction or an experienced rider craving a challenge.
The scenery is unmistakably Colorado—think rugged peaks, pine forests, and remote trail vistas. Riders have praised the knowledgeable guides and the flexible options to suit different skill levels.
Value-wise, at $176 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that balances instruction, trail time, and stunning surroundings.
It’s best suited for travelers who want more than just a ride—they’re looking to learn, improve, and soak in Colorado’s mountain biking culture. The only potential downside is that it’s a full-day commitment, which might be too much if you’re pressed for time.
Bottom Line: If you’re serious about developing your mountain biking skills and want a guided tour through Colorado’s most famous trails, this is a top choice.
2. Silverthorne: Mountain Bike Ride Salt Lick Trails
For around $193 per person, this 4-hour tour delivers a more social and scenic mountain biking experience. The Salt Lick Trail system offers intermediate-level terrain with enough variety to keep things interesting, including some challenging sections and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
Guides prioritize safety and fun, making it a solid option for both beginners looking to improve and experienced riders wanting a quick, enjoyable ride.
The tour includes hot laps via shuttle, which means less pedaling and more riding—and more fun. After riding, there’s a recommended brewery stop, perfect for relaxing and swapping stories about the ride. Riders often comment on the beautiful scenery and the sense of camaraderie that develops during the trip.
The shuttle service helps maximize riding time and minimizes fatigue, especially helpful for those not looking to spend hours in the saddle.
This tour is especially good if you want an active half-day with the bonus of a social aspect and some local flavor. The guides’ emphasis on safety and enjoyment makes it accessible for a wide range of riders, from novices to more experienced mountain bikers. The main drawback could be that it’s somewhat limited for those seeking a longer, more intense ride.
Bottom Line: For a shorter, engaging ride with scenic views and a brewery break, the Salt Lick Trails tour offers excellent value and fun for bikers at most skill levels.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two options, consider your time availability, skill level, and interest in instruction or social riding. If you’re looking to improve your skills and spend a full day exploring Colorado’s famed trails, the Guided Mountain Bike Ride is worth the investment. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience that combines instruction with adventure.
On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed outing with a social vibe and scenic riding through intermediate terrain, the Salt Lick Trails tour provides good value for a half-day of fun. It’s perfect for those who want a quick thrill and a chance to unwind at a brewery afterward.
Consider your fitness level and what kind of experience you want—do you want to learn and challenge yourself, or simply enjoy a scenic ride with friends? Planning ahead and booking early is always wise, especially in summer months when bikes and guides are in high demand.
Final Thoughts
Silverthorne offers a fantastic range of mountain biking options, from full-day skill-building adventures to scenic half-day rides. The Colorado Guided Mountain Bike Ride is perfect if you’re serious about improving your technique and exploring iconic Colorado trails. For a more social and quick-paced experience, the Salt Lick Trails ride provides a fun, scenic option with a lively atmosphere.
No matter what you choose, these tours deliver memorable rides amid Colorado’s majestic scenery. If you’re visiting Silverthorne and want to ride some of the best trails around, book early to secure your spot. With the right tour, you’ll leave with new skills, great stories, and a healthy dose of Colorado mountain air.