Rio Grande Trail

The Rio Grande Trail is predominantly paved with asphalt or concrete, making it ideal for road bikes. There is a short, approximately 2-mile section between Woody Creek and Stein Park in Aspen that is unpaved, but it consists of well-maintained, hard-packed gravel that is generally manageable for road bikes. The paved surface is typically 8 to 10 feet wide.

This trail is generally considered "Easy" to "Moderate" and is suitable for most skill levels. As a former railroad corridor, it has a very gentle incline. If you ride from Aspen towards Glenwood Springs, the experience is largely a downhill glide, making for a particularly pleasant ride.

The trail is accessible from numerous points along its route, connecting communities like Aspen, Snowmass Village, Basalt, Carbondale, and Glenwood Springs. Parking is available at various trailheads in these towns. For example, in Glenwood Springs, you can find parking near the trail's end at Two Rivers Park or the Glenwood Springs Community Center.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users and to protect local wildlife. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

The best time to cycle the Rio Grande Trail is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the trail is free of snow and ice. Summer offers lush scenery, while fall brings vibrant autumn colors to the Roaring Fork Valley.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to cycle on the Rio Grande Trail. It is a publicly accessible multi-use pathway.

You'll be treated to diverse and breathtaking scenery as the trail winds through the Roaring Fork Valley. Expect stunning mountain views, the picturesque Roaring Fork River, sagebrush, scrub oaks, ponderosa and spruce forests, and ranchlands. Keep an eye out for landmarks like Mount Sopris and the John Denver Sanctuary near Aspen. Wildlife sightings, including bald eagles and elk, are also common.

There is only one potable water source directly on the trail, located at the Basalt trailhead. It is highly recommended that cyclists plan ahead and carry sufficient water for their entire ride, especially on longer sections.

Yes, the Rio Grande Trail serves as a vital multi-use pathway connecting several communities. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) provides bus service equipped with bike racks, allowing cyclists to ride sections of the trail and use the bus for return trips, which is particularly popular for those riding downhill from Aspen.

While generally easy, the 2-mile unpaved section between Woody Creek and Stein Park in Aspen offers a slightly different surface. For a largely downhill experience, start your ride in Aspen and head towards Glenwood Springs. The entire trail is a "rails-to-trails" conversion, offering a unique historical perspective.

Popular cycling routes often involve riding between the towns it connects, such as Aspen to Basalt, Basalt to Carbondale, or Carbondale to Glenwood Springs. The full 42-mile stretch from Aspen to Glenwood Springs is a classic, especially when ridden downhill. Many cyclists also enjoy the loop options around Carbondale, as featured in this tour.