The Beecher Loop begins at Wolverton Spring, on Hardscrabble Mountain, south of Eagle. From Wolverton Spring, ride up Hardscrabble Road (Forest Road 413) 9.4 miles to the upper end of the Beecher Road, (Forest Road 441), near the crest of Hardscrabble Mountain. Turn left onto Beecher Road (441), and travel .3 miles to the first gate. Ride around the gate and follow the main trail for 3.8 miles to the second gate. The area between these gates is closed for wildlife protection so travel is restricted to the designated trail. Ride around the second gate and follow the dirt road 2.3 miles, back to the Hardscrabble Road. Veer right, following the Hardscrabble Road past the junction with Forest Road 451 and through several switch backs, 3.1 miles back down to Wolverton Spring. An abundance of wildlife, beautiful views and wildflowers make this loop particularly enjoyable. Aspen groves and lodgepole pine forests provide plenty of shade either on the trail or nearby. Considerations: Due to snowdrifts near the top, this loop may not be fully ride able until late June. 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 and logging activity all along this loop. Portions of the trail may be closed periodically due to logging activity. Call the Eagle Ranger District for more information: (970-328-6388) Avoid herding cattle. If necessary, walk your bike past herds, allowing them to move from the trail. Use of a helmet and eye protection is highly recommended. Watch for vehicle traffic on the main road.
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 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.
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.
|
Updated: 2001-06-26 14:38:00.0
Add your own trip Report!
