The best road cycling routes in Pitkin County

Pitkin County offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from gentle riverside paths to challenging alpine climbs. You'll find over 50 miles of paved bike trails and scenic county highways. Options include routes through extensive aspen groves, along the Roaring Fork River Valley, and up to high mountain passes in the Rocky Mountains.

Yes, Pitkin County has several routes suitable for beginners and families. The Rio Grande Trail is a 42-mile paved, multi-use path connecting Aspen to Glenwood Springs, offering a gentle incline and a car-free environment for much of its length. It's ideal for all ages and skill levels.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the ascent to Independence Pass via Hwy 82 is a demanding climb to over 12,000 feet on the Continental Divide. Another challenging option is the Rio Grande and Ruedi Reservoir Loop, which covers over 65 miles with significant elevation gain through diverse landscapes.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and pass through scenic aspen groves. You can cycle to the iconic Maroon Lake via Maroon Creek Road, or explore the historic Ashcroft Ghost Town by riding along Castle Creek Road. The Rio Grande Trail also provides access to the Roaring Fork River and overlooks like Slaughterhouse Falls.

The best time for road cycling in Pitkin County is generally from late spring through early fall. Independence Pass, for example, is particularly rewarding in late spring before it fully opens to vehicle traffic, offering a unique experience. Summer provides ideal conditions for most routes, with stunning mountain views and pleasant weather.

Yes, Pitkin County offers several excellent loop routes. The Rio Grande and Brush Creek Trail Loop is a popular option, as is the Queens Gulch loop in Aspen. For a longer, more challenging ride, consider the Rio Grande and Ruedi Reservoir Loop.

You can connect Aspen to Snowmass Base Village via routes like the Owl Creek and Brush Creek Loop. Additionally, the Rio Grande Trail offers a popular downhill cruise from Aspen to the Woody Creek Tavern, and connects to other towns like Basalt and Glenwood Springs.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning Rocky Mountain scenery, the well-maintained paved trails, and the variety of routes catering to different skill levels, from gentle valley rides to demanding alpine climbs.

During peak hours (8 am to 5 pm) in summer, Maroon Creek Road, which leads to the Maroon Bells, has bus-only access for vehicles. This makes it a cyclist's paradise with light traffic. However, it's advisable to check current access regulations and potential permit requirements, especially during peak season. You can find more information at visitmaroonbells.com.

Pitkin County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 45 routes documented on komoot. These include 6 easy, 29 moderate, and 12 difficult options, ensuring there's a route for every skill level.

While popular routes like Maroon Creek Road can see significant traffic, especially during peak season, exploring routes like McLain Flats Road offers gentle rolling terrain with scenic views of the Aspen/Snowmass Valley and Mount Daly, and can be a good option for a less crowded experience. Early mornings or weekdays can also help avoid crowds on more popular trails.