Lame Horse

 

I lived near the mouth of American Fork Canyon for two years and never rode there.  Don’t make the same mistake that I did: go ride Lame Horse.

Where:

Park at the Mt. Timpanogos trail head above Aspen Grove, just below the ranger station (here).  Head northeast up a rocky and loose wide-ish trail until you get to a bridge, then continue

What:

7 miles, 1,200 ft elevation

The Lame Horse trail is easily one of the most beautiful and adventurous rides that I’ve been on.  The lower section of trail is filled with rock washes and steep switchbacks that make it difficult even for experienced riders.  When the loose rocks let up about .5 miles in, you’ll find that although the trail is well-worn and provides ample traction, it is in no way lacking in its technical demands.  The roots and large rocks pock-marking the trail will make you choose your battles.  Save your energy for the technical sections, and you should be fine.  Even if you choose to hike-a-bike for a while, you’ll find that most of the time you will only do so for a minute or so before the trail is rideable again.

The trail gets easier as it progresses toward the summit.  The switchbacks disappear around mile 2 and you’re left with a decently smooth trail that keeps going up.  From the summit you can access a variety of other trails; see this for details.

When:

Rideable from May through the first snowfall.  Deadfall is typically removed by early June.

This is a great trail to hit after work during the middle of summer when the sun will bake you off of west-facing trails.  The elevation keeps the air cooler, and since nearly the entire trail is shaded it’s a great ride even when the temps are in the 90s.

How:

This is great as an out-and-back starting at the Aspen Grove side, or as a shuttle from the summit parking lot.  If you’re not a strong technical uphill rider, try riding up the road to the summit and take the trail back to the car.

Why:

Because you love adventure, and even though your local flow trail is great, sometimes you just need to ride on a mountain.  A REAL mountain, not those foothills that you’ve grown so fond of.  And because it’s beautiful.  I mean, look at this:

You get views…..

And meadows…..

And plenty of shade…..

Go ride that sucker!