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5.3 miles
Distance
1,052 ft
Climb
-1,051 ft
Descent
2 miles
High Point
3 ft
Altitude change
8,189 ft
Altitude min
8,192 ft
Altitude start
8,196 ft
Altitude end
-37.1%
Grade max
46.8%
Grade min
3 miles
Distance climb
2 miles
Distance down
935 ft
Distance flat
Want the fastest way to the goods? The intermediate-advanced bike-only downhill-only rowdy, bermy, jumpy Hard Money? Well, here you go
From the Historic Gilpin Tramway, make the first right onto Millsite Trail. This 2 mile singletrack through the pines is one of the nicest ways to climb nearly 700 ft. The tread is very accommodating and there are few technical challenges, but it is designated as an intermediate trail. While it is only an average grade of 6.4%, there are some punchy sections and climbing corners that will add to your workout. If the altitude is hurting you, there's a great overlook at 1.6 miles in to catch your breath. The top of Millsite hooks up with Easy Money. Take the left fork on Easy Money to continue the climb, then cross the service road and keep going. Keep heading up Easy Money, up and up and up. You'll have the option of 2 addition switchbacks if you want to see the summit of Maryland Mountain, otherwise take the left onto Hard Money.
Now here are the good. Hang onto your saddle for 2 miles of you-won't-stop-grinning downhill fun. At the bottom, take a left on Historic Gilpin Tramway for another lap or to get back to the trailhead.
Detailed Description
Hard Money Loop is a 5 mile popular expert route located near Black Hawk Colorado. This mountain bike primary route can be used one direction and has a moderate overall physical rating. This route includes 2 trails. This route climbs 1,052 ft with a max elevation of 9,176 ft then descends -1,051 ft.
Route Supporters
City of Black Hawk
Black Diamond Trail DesignsBuilder
Colorado Mountain Bike AssociationMaintainer
Boulder Mountainbike AllianceMaintainer
Local Trail Association
Please consider joining or donating to the local riding association to support trail development & maintenance.
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Stats
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Distance5 miles
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Avg time1 hr 7 min
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Altitude min8,189 ft
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Altitude start8,192 ft
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Altitude end8,196 ft
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Climb1,052 ft
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Descent-1,051 ft
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Grade max-37.1%
-
Grade min46.8%
-
Distance climb3 miles
-
Distance down2 miles
-
Distance flat935 ft
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Trails in Route
| 2 miles | |||||
| 2 miles |
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Riding area
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Primary ActivityMountain Bike
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- E-Bike
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Difficulty ratingBlack Diamond
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Route TypeLoop
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eBike Allowed
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Bike typeAM, XC
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DirectionOne Direction
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Physical ratingModerate
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Recent Trail Reports Along Route
| status | trail | date | condition | description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sep 20, 2026 @ 11:16am (America/Denver) Sep 20, 2026 | The colors are poppin'! | |||
Sep 20, 2026 @ 11:16am (America/Denver) Sep 20, 2026 | The colors are poppin'! |
- By WendyBMA
BMA & contributors - #28920 - 7,030 views
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