Jack‘s Trail

Get ready for a difficult mountain biking adventure on The Hartman Rocks Big loop, spanning 22.4 miles (36.1 km) with a significant 2289 feet (698 metres) of elevation gain. This route takes you through diverse high-desert terrain, featuring extensive singletrack and slickrock sections. You will navigate rolling hills dotted with sagebrush and encounter striking granite rock formations, including technical features like rock rollers and drops. Expect to spend around 5 hours and 36 minutes on this challenging ride, with expansive vistas from viewpoints like the Top of the World Trail. You can see the Gunnison Basin to the north and the majestic San Juan Mountains, West Elks, and Sawatch Range to the south.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area is easily accessible from Gunnison. You will find ample parking available at various trailheads. Because of its high desert ecosystem, the trails here tend to dry out earlier than those at higher elevations, making it an excellent choice for spring and extended fall riding. Remember that these are multi-use trails, so you will be sharing them with dirt bikers, hikers, and trail runners.

This comprehensive loop offers a truly rewarding experience for skilled riders looking to explore the unique high desert ecosystem of the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area. The striking granite rock formations and diverse trail surfaces, from singletrack to slickrock, make it a standout destination. It is a place where you can push your limits while enjoying the rugged beauty of the landscape and the far-reaching views from its highest points.