An IMBA Gold Level Ride Center, Aspen and the surrounding area provide spectacular and sometimes quite challenging terrain for mountain bikers.
Mountain Biking
IMBA Gold Level Ride Center
In 2020 Aspen Snowmass Roaring Fork Valley was awarded Gold Level Ride Center Status by International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA). Check out our Valley Partnership with Roaring Fork Mountain Bike Association and the Aspen Snowmass Epic Loop.
Everything you need to know about Aspen's IMBA Gold Level Ride Center status.
Below is a list of trails from easy to difficult rides. Some things to remember: mechanized vehicles are not allowed within the wilderness boundaries and this includes mountain bikes - keep in mind, three-fourths of the Aspen district is comprised of wilderness area - so use this list below for available rides. For additional information, please call the local Forest Service office at 970-925-3445 or visit the National Forest website.
A map of hiking and biking trails, historic sites, fishing easements, parks, and more in Pitkin County is now available online and via a free mobile app. Check out the site here or download the app: Pitkin Outside.
Aspen Trail Finder is a great resource for trails, maps, and current conditions, including pictures.
Mountain Bike Trails
Smuggler Mountain Road
Smuggler Mountain Road - Follow Neal Street to King Street to Park Street to Smuggler Mountain Road where the trip begins. At the fork in the road (approximately 1 ½ miles), take a left. This road travels uphill for one and a half miles to the Smuggler Observation Deck. Going left will connect you with an entire network of trails: Smuggler Mountain Road to Hunter Creek Trail and Smuggler Mountain Road to Lenado Trail.
Rio Grande Trail
Rio Grande Trail - This trail begins behind the Post Office on Puppy Smith Street. The first two miles are paved. The trail then crosses Cemetery Lane becoming a dirt trail at that point. The trail proceeds northwest to Woody Creek (EASY). With only 24 hours in Aspen, we recommend biking to Woody Creek Tavern for lunch.
Sunnyside Trail
Sunnyside Trail - The trail begins on Cemetery Lane. Follow Cemetery Lane from Hwy 82 where the road crosses the Roaring Fork River. Approximately ¼ mile beyond this point, you will see the trail beginning on the right.
Brush Creek/Government Trail
Brush Creek/Government Trail - The trail begins behind the tennis courts on Maroon Creek Road. It crosses Buttermilk Mountain and finishes in Snowmass. As this trail crosses private property, it is VERY important that bikers stay on the trail only. Failure to do so could jeopardize future use of this trail.
Sky Mountain Park
Sky Mountain Park - A 2,500 acre area made up of the Droste Parcel and Brush Creek Ranch which connects Aspen and Snowmass Village. There are 3 main access points: Buttermilk Ski Area, Brush Creek Intercept Lot and Snowmass Village Town Park. Check out our 360 tour on this awesome trail system.
Summer Road
Summer Road - The road that runs up the face of Aspen Mountain. Biking is allowed on the road only.
Snowmass Village Trails
Aspen's neighboring town Snowmass Village has a variety of mountain bike trails to offer, some of our favorites include the Rim Trail, Tom Blake Trail, and the Government Trail. Click here
Snowmass Bike Park
With 25 miles of chairlift access purpose-built trails and almost 3,000 vertical feet, the Snowmass Bike Park has rides for all skill levels.
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Wildlife Safety Tips
Aspen is defined by its natural beauty and incredible access to the outdoors. While humans enjoy exploring the area, Aspen is home to a range of residents. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains or taking a stroll through town, it’s not uncommon to encounter wildlife, especially during the summer months. Before your next outing, be sure to remember these safety tips that will keep both you and wildlife safe.
Everything You Need to Know About Independence Pass
Independence Pass, part of Colorado State Highway 82, passes over the Continental Divide between Leadville and Aspen, Colorado. The summit at the Continental Divide is 12,095 feet above sea level. It is about 32 miles long and takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour-and-a-half with stops along the way to enjoy the scenic views. It winds around stunning groves of aspen as the Roaring Fork River rushes nearby. The road is steep, narrow, and twisty with only a few guardrails. While it's safe, drivers must follow the speed limit and drive with caution.
5 Alpine Lake Hikes Near Aspen
Aspen, Colorado is home to hundreds of miles of trails, traveling along rushing streams, colorful meadows, dense forests, and sometimes ending up at pristine alpine lakes. From easy to moderate climbs to rewarding treks, explore 5 alpine lake hikes to enjoy this summer:
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