Lower Sunset

Lower Sunset is a mountain biking route in Franklin Mountains State Park in Texas, managed by State Park and Recreation. The ride is an out-and-back of about 14 miles, with a total elevation gain of about 2,050 feet. The route starts at roughly 4,688 feet and climbs to a high point of about 4,892 feet before descending back to the starting elevation. The climb is steady, and the steepest stretch comes at about 3.8 miles in, where the grade reaches about 17%. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to ride. Typical averages from a nearby weather station show October highs around 78°F with lows near 54°F, and April is similar at about 79°F by day and 51°F at night. That station sits roughly 1,000 feet below the route, so temperatures on the climb run cooler. The route sits close to several other trails and climbing areas. Beginner's Loop and Tom Mays Trail are both within a third of a mile, and Sneed's Cory and the Nature Trail are about 0.7 miles away.