Gunnison

Overview

The Gunnison Area includes the very popular Hartman Rocks recreation use area just a few miles SW of Gunnison. It consists of 160 acres at the "Base Area" managed by the City and County of Gunnison as well as an adjacent 8,000 acres of federal land managed by the BLM. It’s a paradise of desert mountain biking, hiking, motorcycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, trail running, and Nordic skiing. With miles of trails and roads maintained by the BLM and local Gunnison recreation groups, Hartman’s is one of western Colorado’s best kept secrets. With 40 miles of singletrack trails and 33 miles of road open to biking, beginning to advanced riders can find great trails to learn on. Newly added adaptive hand cycling trails and some wider single track trails provide great opportunities for hand cyclists who want to challenge themselves with fun berms and rollers. Hikers and trail runners can enjoy these same trails or branch out onto other trails. Named Hartman Rocks for the granite ridge that dominates the area, climbing routes and sites abound. Bolting is allowed, but climbers are encouraged to practice clean climbing whenever possible. Motor sports enthusiasts will enjoy motorcycling on 39 miles of trails and 33 miles of roads, and 4 wheel drive vehicles/ATVs can explore the roads. Trail maps are available. During the winter, Nordic skiers take advantage of 16 miles of trails maintained by Gunnison Nordic Club. Both classic and skate skiing options exist. When there is enough snow, snowmobiling on groomed trails and roads can be a great way to experience Hartman Rocks. Local groups are working to establish similar options for fat bikers. Now it’s mostly trails that are packed down and ridden in by snow shoes and more experienced fat bikers. The local bike shops can give you tips on where to ride.