July in Colorado has a tradition of being extremely hot. This year is no different and in many ways worse. With lack of rain and a string of days reaching 90 degrees or hotter, July has been punishing mountain bikers in our state. When choosing Trail of the Month we wanted to ride a trail that had plenty of shade. That meant we needed to find a trail with thick tree cover. We also wanted a challenging singletrack that we could ride the entire way. Although we enjoy a good hike-a-bike like we featured last month, we also like to feel challenged with out feeling like we have to dismount. Sourdough trail near Ward gave us just what we were looking for.

We started Sourdough trail near the University of Colorado Research Station. Don't expect much of a warm up at the beginning of the trail. As soon as you start the trail you encounter rocky singeltrack with a mild but consistent elevation gain. If you need the warm up I would recommend riding up and down the dirt road that gives you trail access. Once you are sufficiently warmed up jump on and then you can really enjoy the trail right from the start. It is apparent that this trail gets a lot of use. There is an obvious track that appears on many sections of the trail where the loose rock has been pushed to the left and right of the track which leaves clear riding down the middle. That means you can work on your bike handling skills by staying on the ribbon thin clear track. Don't be afraid to jump off into the loose rock when you feel comfortable, this will only help your handling skills as well as your riding balance.

If your looking for views of the surrounding mountain peaks you will not get them. This is a thick forest you are riding through so you know what that means... shade! You may not be treated to spectacular views on the horizon but you are treated to a cool ride even while riding in mid July. The forest offers a great canopy while you take on this couple hour ride and you may even notice there is green in the pictures. Even with the extreme drought, there have been a few areas along the trail that have remained green.

The wildfire near Estes Park has caused a definite smell of smoke in the air. The smoke could cause some eye and throat problems along the ride to those that are sensitive to it. If you are able to adjust to the smoke you will really enjoy this trail. It is one of the locals favorites because of the narrow singletrack and the loose rocks that challenge you along the ride. This is a more challenging ride and don't forget that you will be riding at a higher altitude. Be sure to rest when you need rest as well as bring plenty of fluids. Between the smoke and the altitude your body will go through a lot of water.