A‑Basin Summit Session
Justin AlberJuly 24, 2025
Tuesday morning at Arapahoe Basin delivered a true high-alpine mountain bike experience—one of those rides that remind you why you ride. With a group of GLDN MTN riders, we pedaled hard to summit at 12,500 ft, then soaked up long descents through wildflowers and above timberline.
The Climb: Earn Your Turns & Earn Your Views
We powered up Argentine North Fork, connected to the new “Up at Arapahoe” trail leading directly to the summit climb—about ¾ mile of high alpine riding on rocky service road terrain. The trail was amazing, the air was crispy and the climb worth every second.
Summit Vistas & Wildflower Ribbons
Hitting the top, we dropped in near 12,456 ft and glided across ridgelines rimmed in vibrant blooms. The scene was classic Basin: Crystalline views of Loveland Pass, multiple 14ers, and an endless horizon of alpine meadows—Colorado riding at its finest.
The Descent: Pure Beavers Loop & Wheels Up Fun
The downhill combined flow and technical challenge: ripping through Beavers Loop and carving the Wheels Up trail. These segments are purpose‑built to reward effort with fast, scenic, and thrilling singletrack through open bowls and mixed alpine terrain.
Why We Ride It
- Earn every pedal stroke: no lifts, no shortcuts. You climb, you earn your turns. The payoff? Long descents with immense views and elevation gain.
- Trail craftsmanship: The A‑Basin trail crew delivered a seamless route to the summit—rare in high-alpine MTB routes. It feels built for fun and flow, not just endurance.
- Vacation from the valley: When the Front Range feels like summer heat, the Basin breeze and wildflower slopes at 12k feet are the antidote.
Takeaways
- Know what to expect: The ride starts with serious climbing, so be ready for long climbs and high‑elevation efforts.
- Bring layers: Weather changes fast above tree line—sun, wind, hail can all arrive before you finish lunch.
- Leave no trace: A‑Basin sits on USFS land. Stay on trails, pack out your gear (including dog waste), and respect alpine ecosystems.
Date
July 22, 2025
Location
Arapahoe Basin, Colorado
Ride Summary
A‑Basin’s Summit Session with GLDN MTN is a ride that rewards grit with alpine bliss. Climb above timberline via Argentine North Fork and Up at Arapahoe—even if your lungs burn. Descend on Beavers Loop and Wheels Up under wildflowers and thin air. A ride that fits the ethos: earn your turns, earn your vistas, ride it like you own it.
Check the full video above for ride edits, camaraderie, and scenery that will make you want to load up your pack and roll.
Ride Details
| Detail | Info |
| Trail | Argentine North Fork > Up at Arapahoe > Beavers Loop > Wheels Up |
| Distance | 10.27 miles |
| Elevation Gain | 2,155 ft |
| Ride Time | 1h 31m |
| When | 9:26 am |
| Bike | Spot Mayhem 130 2021 Red |
| Conditions |
Cloudy, 53°F. Feels like 49°F. Humidity 51% Wind 5.5 mi/h from W |
| Dirt |
Dry and loose |
| Gear |
Smith Helmet, Smith Sunglasses, Giro Gloves, GLDN APEX Jersey & North Table Mountain Jersey, GLDN Shorts |
GLDN Gear
Wore the APEX Jersey & North Table Mountain Jersey and it performed excellent throughout the entire ride through the high alpine.
Reminder
All our trails around here and throughout Colorado can be busy. Ring that bell, smile at hikers and yield to the climbers.
Vibe Check
Like the vibe? Follow along and drop a comment on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Strava
Join the GLDN Collective for more rides, new gear drops and giveaways.
