Gravel biking in Aspen offers the perfect blend of adventure and scenery, with routes that wind through alpine meadows or mountain passes. Riders of all levels can explore a mix of smooth dirt roads and challenging climbs, with views around every corner. It’s a unique way to experience Aspen’s wild beauty beyond the pavement.
Gravel Biking
Gravel Biking Routes
Woody Creek
Distance: 49 miles one way
Elevation: 6,902 ft.
DIFFICULT
Start and end at the Brush Creek park and ride and earn every inch of the marg at the Woody creek tavern afterwards. Use your gravel bike to climb to the top of the world and loop Larkspur mountain above Lenado, descend back to town and hit the single track to Four Corners above Hunter Creek, descend into Aspen and refill your bottles for the last two climbs (hardly bumps after what you’ve done) of Owl creek and Juniper hill. If you want to wimp out, take the single track over airline to viewline to return quicker.
Watson Divide
Distance: 34.6 miles
Elevation: 2,800 ft.
DIFFICULT
This scenic 34-mile loop, perfect for gravel bikes, offers a mix of pavement and well-maintained gravel. Start anywhere along the route and enjoy a gentle descent on the Rio Grande Trail, followed by a steady climb over Watson Divide with expansive mountain views. The ride drops into Snowmass Village—great for a quick refuel—before looping back to Aspen. With varied terrain and big alpine scenery, it’s an ideal half-day ride for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Outside of Aspen
For additional gravel adventures, discover more of the the Roaring Fork Valley for great routes around Old Snowmass, Basalt, and Carbondale. Apps like Strava and Komoot are excellent tools for finding rides that match your style and skill level. You can also check out routes recommendations from Beespoke Cycling based in Basalt, Colorado as well as find information about their clinics and guided rides.
Aspen on Two Wheels
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