Penitente Canyon ⛰️ loop from Tin Can Camp
Penitente Canyon ⛰️ loop from Tin Can Camp
3.3
(7)
84
riders
Penitente Canyon ⛰️ loop from Tin Can Camp
02:41
23.8km
320m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Alpine Hut
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4.33 km
Penitente Canyon ⛰️
Highlight • Canyon
Tip by
23.8 km
End point
Alpine Hut
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.40 km
7.85 km
3.85 km
3.71 km
Surfaces
15.5 km
6.07 km
2.22 km
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Elevation
Highest point (2,600 m)
Lowest point (2,380 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 26 August
28°C
11°C
59 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging and visually striking mountain biking adventure in Colorado, the Penitente Canyon ⛰️ loop from Tin Can Camp delivers. This difficult 14.8-mile (23.8 km) route, with 1057 feet (322 metres) of elevation gain, will take you around 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced riders seeking technical terrain and unique geological features.
What to expect on Penitente Canyon ⛰️ loop from Tin Can Camp
This route plunges you into a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions, where you'll navigate technical terrain featuring rock ledges, quick turns, and slickrock. The trail winds through twisty rock canyons, offering glimpses of towering rock formations and historic pictographs, including a notable faded blue Madonna painting. Expect sections with boulders, humped sandstone, and even some deep sand, demanding skill both uphill and downhill. The effort is significant, but the reward is a truly one-of-a-kind riding experience, best suited for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers.
Planning your visit
Penitente Canyon is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and is a renowned destination for both mountain biking and rock climbing. While some trails connect climbing areas, not all are suitable for biking. The area offers a network of trails, so be sure to check a map to ensure you're on the appropriate route for your skill level. Parking is available, and arriving early is always a good idea, especially on weekends, to secure a spot and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Trail details
- Distance: 14.8 miles (23.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 1057 feet (322 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 41 minutes
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