THE RIO GRANDE TRAIL
This rails-to-trails paved path follows the Roaring Fork River from Glenwood Springs to Aspen, and is ideal for people of all ages and skill levels. Enjoy it in sections or ride the entire length in a day.
Completed in 2008, it follows the Roaring Fork River and links Glenwood Springs with Aspen, Colorado. This rails-to-trails project gains roughly 2,100 feet over 42 miles, a gentle incline that makes for a pleasant ride. Many cyclists do portions of the trail, from Glenwood Springs to Carbondale, for example.
There’s plenty to see on this ride too! Look for historic old ranch buildings, bald eagles soaring above the river, herds of elk passing the hours in the wide open meadows, and the majestic landmark Mount Sopris in the distance.
For bikers who want to ride the entire distance between Glenwood Springs and Aspen, the Roaring Fork Transit Authority’s (RFTA) Bike Bus is the way to go. The seasonal, weekend-only bus is outfitted to carry up to 14 bikes. From stops in Glenwood Springs, visitors can ride up the valley and disembark at Ruby Park in Aspen where they can connect to the Rio Grande trailhead for miles of breathtaking downhill cruising. See www.rfta.com/ for rates and schedules.
• Uses: Hiking, road biking, mountain biking, walking, jogging and in-line skating
• Length: 42 miles one way from Glenwood Springs to Aspen
• Ability Rating: Easy to Moderate
• Usage: Heavy
• Dogs permitted, with a leash
Because visitors can access the Rio Grande travel at locations throughout Glenwood Springs and the Roaring Fork Valley, parking is variable. Stop by the Glenwood Springs Visitor Center at 802 Grand Avenue for maps and advice.
This trail runs along side the Roaring Fork River with several access points between Glenwood Springs and Aspen.
MORE MOUNTAIN BIKING TRAILS
Doc Holliday Trail
Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path
Grizzly Creek Trail
Red Mountain Trails
Things To Do
Hanging Lake
Storm King Memorial Trail
Atkinson Canal Trail
No Name Trail (Jess Weaver Trail)
Babbish Gulch
Horseshoe Bend
Scout Trail
Mitchell Creek
Hadley Gulch
East Elk Creek/Centennial Trail
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