Reviewed by: Joeboater ,  Cross Country Rider

Summary:
This is a great loop. The climb from the bottom of Spiro to the ridge is about 3000'and, except for the 1/4 mile steep climb off of the shadow lake loop section, is a moderate climb. The MoFo section to the ridge is really steep, also. Most of the rest is rolling climbs and descents and downhill. From Red Pine back to Spiro is almost 15 miles on a very slight uphill on the midmountain trail aka the 8000' trail. Riding time is 3 to 3.5 hours...add an hour for taking in the sights. On the ridge you'll have opportunities to take short hikes to overlook the runs at Park City and The Canyons.

Reviewed by: Chicksdigsize ,  Racer

Summary:
Awesome ride. Pretty long but do-able. Crest is fairly smooth, but the mid-mountain trail will make you work; you're always pushing the pedals, no coasting downhills on Mid-mountain; but you're never anaerobic on the climbs. Spiro can be busy, be careful descending it.

Starting from Park City is definitely the best way to do the Crest Trail. You avoid shuttling which is a big pain in the ass, avoid all the road riding of the Big Cottonwood Climb option, and also avoid the Big Water trail access with the even-odd day access for bikers and the crowds there.

Take water and food. Some cytomax as well. Be prepared for at least a six hour ride. Red pine lodge sells some Gatorade's, great place to stop, eat, use restroom, etc.

My wife broke her derailleur and had to single speed the end of this ride. Good thing it happened at the end!!!!

Recommended Route:
Same as above.

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Tour de Suds, TG1, TG2, Deer valley stuff; Park city is definitely a mountain bike mecca that's close to home.

Reviewed by: Cedar Hills Terry ,  Cross Country Rider , from Cedar Hills, UT

Summary:
This route combines two of the Wasatch ranges best trails into one major epic loop.

This ride will test the mettle of even the most skilled riders.

There is tons of climbing to start, followed by great rides on the Crest, Connector and Mid-Mountain Trails.

Bring Lots of water (I downed 100oz water and 32oz Gatorade and still came home 6 lbs lighter than when I left).

Recommended Route:
See Trail Listing

Other recommended trails in the same area:
Solamere Loop & Tour Des Suds