The Firebox Park Loop begins at Wolverton Spring, on Hardscrabble Mountain, south of Eagle. From Wolverton Spring, ride up Hardscrabble Road 2.5 miles to the "Y" (junction of Road #413 and Sawmill Road #415). Stay to the right and travel another two miles to pick up the Firebox Park Trail. The first 4.5 miles of the trip consist of a steady uphill climb, with only one downhill slope. The rider will travel through groves of aspen and lodgepole pine. Shade is minimal directly on the road, but is available along most of the route just a short distance from the road. There are beautiful views along the way. Upon reaching Firebox Park Trailhead, the terrain changes significantly. This four mile segment consists of predominantly jeep trail. The road base is much softer and provides a greater challenge to the rider. The trail is downhill for the most part but has a few steep, relatively short climbs. Shade is ample as the rider passes through aspen stands and lodgepole pine forests and crosses intermittent streams. The last section of the trail opens into brush land and offers the greatest technical challenge as the bicyclist descends a hill with a 34% grade on a very loose road base. Considerations: Untreated water is available at Wolverton Spring; treatment is advised prior to consumption. Carry a sufficient water supply with you. Be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions. A windbreak and/or rain gear is recommended. You may want to bring a snack to enjoy en route. Cautions: Watch for logging trucks along the main road and logging activity, especially at the Firebox Park Trailhead. Avoid herding cattle. If necessary, walk your bike past herds, allowing them to move from the trail. Please secure gates after passing through. Use of a helmet and eye protection is highly recommended. The road base on Hardscrabble Road is very slippery when wet. Use extreme caution.
Directions from Eagle: Go southeast on Brush Creek Road 5 miles, to Hardscrabble Road. Turn right onto Hardscrabble Road, #413, and travel 6.8 miles to reach Wolverton Spring.
Directions from Beaver Creek: Travel west on I-70 to Eagle (exit #147). Turn left and drive into Eagle. Turn left on Capitol Street and follow to Brush Creek Road. Turn left and follow Brush Creek Road 5 miles, to Hardscrabble Road. Turn right onto Hardscrabble Road, #413, and travel 6.8 miles to reach Wolverton Spring.
Directions from Vail: Travel west on I-70 to Eagle (exit #147). Turn left and drive into Eagle. Turn left on Capitol Street and follow to Brush Creek Road. Turn left and follow Brush Creek Road 5 miles, to Hardscrabble Road. Turn right onto Hardscrabble Road, #413, and travel 6.8 miles to reach Wolverton Spring.
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Updated: 2001-06-26 14:39:00.0
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