Midland Railroad Trail

The old Colorado Midland Railroad crossed Trout Creek Pass at the southwestern edge of South Park, then dropped gently to the Arkansas River before turning north towards Leadville. Now, the section between Trout Creek Pass and Buena Vista has been converted to a trail well-suited for mountain biking.

From Buena Vista, access to the Midland trail is at the east end of town on East Main Street. Cross the bridge over the Arkansas River, follow the Barbara Whipple Trail (a moderately steep climb of not quite a mile) until you reach the old Midland Railroad bed and turn south.

The trail is really a packed gravel road for the first few miles, so watch for occasional auto traffic. The trail then narrows. Single track has been constructed to skirt the areas where trestles once stood.

Trip Planner

Route location: In Chaffee County, between Buena Vista and Trout Creek Pass to the southeast.

Surface: Combination of smooth railroad bed, and slightly technical single track.

Distance: 15.4 miles.

Ride time: Allow 2 - 3 hours for the round trip.

Difficulty: Moderate. The route gains about 800 feet on the outbound leg. The pedaling on the old railroad bed is easy, but the single-track sections are slightly more difficult.

Maps: Trails Illustrated: Buena Vista/Colligiate peaks.

From Denver: Drive southwest on U.S. 285 to Johnson Village, then north on U.S. 24 for two miles to Buena Vista. Go right at the light on East Main Street and continue to the river. Park in the lot near the bridge. Allow for 2 1/2 hours driving time.