The Herring Park Loop is a very easy DS ride on USFS dirt roads from Salida to Herring Park in South Park and return via Aspen Ridge.
Herring Park Loop - 2/25/13 version
Click pictures to supersize.
The Herring Park Loop is a very easy DS ride on USFS dirt roads from Salida to Herring Park in South Park and return via Aspen Ridge.
The motorized routes are easy dirt roads. The total riding mileage is about 50 miles. I usually ride the loop in 1 hour and 50 minutes, give or take. There are several overlooks with nice views of the Arkansas River Valley.
You can extend this loop and riding time by riding CR 2 further east rather than turning left at the Herring Park sign. A ride out to CR 11 and then a return on CR 12 and then CR 2 back to the sign to continue on the initial loop will add about an hour to the ride time. Further extensions to Cotopaxi or a ride around Black Mtn could add several hours each. Almost all of the roads in this area are easy to very easy and make for a very laid back and enjoyable ride.
The map on the right ---> shows the start and finish on SH 291 just west of Salida city limits. Click the map to see a larger jpg version (print for reference).
Right-click HerringParkLoop.gpx and save to get a GPX track file of the loop.
DIRECTIONS: From Highway 291 just west of the Salida city limits, turn north onto CR 175. Follow the map or GPX track on your GPS receiver.
A video will be available later this spring.
See Dual Sport Riding in Central Colorado for information about other areas and rides.
Aspen Ridge road
9/11/11
Aspen Ridge road
9/11/11
View from old road
9/11/11
Quarry
9/11/11