Mountain Biking

Steamboat Springs' rolling mountains, endless aspen glades, mellow valleys, and miles and miles of Jeep trails and single-track make for great mountain biking. In summer, when Front Range trails are baking in the harsh summer sun and cluttered with mountain bikers, horse riders, and hikers, you can pedal some of the cool backcountry trails in Steamboat without passing a single cyclist.

Gore Pass Loop. The 27½-mile Gore Pass Loop takes you through aspen and pine forests, with gradual hill climbs and long, sweet descents. Hwy. 134 and Forest Rd. 185, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80483.

Orange Peel Bicycle Service. This bike shop offers a sweet line of demos that cost about double the regular rental rates, which start at $60 for a half day. It's a good deal if you're in the market for a new bike. 1136 Yampa St., Steamboat Springs, Colorado, 80477. 970/879–2957; www.orangepeelbikes.com.