The Roaring Fork Valley is a mecca for year-round outdoor pursuits, and while we’re best known for our ski touring and singletrack, don’t sleep on the miles of pristine tarmac and gravel winding through our backyard. Whether you’re looking to build early-season fitness, push for your longest day in the saddle, or just want to spin the legs between powder days, we’ve rounded up our favorite routes from Aspen to Glenwood Springs and everything in between.
Here’s your guide to getting the most out of road and gravel riding in the Roaring Fork Valley.
Riding the Rio Grande Trail from Glenwood Springs to Aspen.
Rio Grande Trail (Aspen to Glenwood Springs) – Paved + Packed Gravel
This 42-mile, gradual rail trail follows the former Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad line all the way from Aspen to Glenwood Springs. This is one of the most scenic bike paths in the country with only a handful of road crossings for such a large stretch. It has one small section of packed gravel just outside of Aspen and is paved the rest of the way—perfect for either a road or gravel bike. Don’t be fooled by its flat appearance though, the trail climbs (or descends) over 2,500 vertical feet. When you are headed upvalley, expect to go 5-10 miles per hour slower than when you are headed down.
Local Tip: Grab a coffee in Basalt and turn around at Carbondale for a mellow 30–35 mile ride with minimal climbing.
Castle Creek Road (Aspen) – Road
A true Aspen classic. This 24-mile out-and-back ride takes you from the edge of town all the way to the ghost town of Ashcroft. You’ll gain steady elevation alongside Castle Creek, surrounded by towering peaks and golden aspens in the fall.
Ride Stats: ~24 miles out and back / 2,200 ft of climbing
Why We Love It: Low traffic, stunning views, and a punchy climb that feels rewarding without crushing your soul.
Maroon Creek Road (Aspen) – Road (seasonal)
To keep traffic down on the road to Maroon Bells, Maroon Creek Road is open only to bikes and buses and becomes one of the most surreal places to ride a road bike. Ride up from town or park at the T-Lazy-7 Ranch for a short but unforgettable climb to Maroon Lake, framed by the iconic Maroon Bells.
Pro Tip: Hit it early in the season before the summer buses start running, and you’ll have one of Colorado’s most scenic roads nearly to yourself.
Missouri Heights Loops (Basalt/Carbondale) – Gravel + Road
Welcome to rolling gravel paradise. From downtown Carbondale or Basalt, you can link together a mix of pavement and smooth dirt roads up into Missouri Heights. The views span from Mount Sopris to Capitol Peak, and traffic is usually sparse. Keep in mind, there is often a 1,000 vertical foot climb to access the rolling sections up top.
Route Ideas:
- El Jebel–Catherine Store Loop: Moderate 20-mile loop with mixed terrain.
- Cattle Creek –Catherine Store Loop: Moderate 21-mile loop on paved road with 1,200 feet of climbing and stunning views.
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Missouri Heights Figure 8: Build a 40+ mile route and include the Upper Cattle Creek climb for a challenge.
Gear Tip: A 38–42mm tire hits the sweet spot for comfort and speed on these well-graded gravel roads, but it is also manageable on your standard road slick.
Dinkle Lake (Carbondale) – Advanced Gravel
For those looking to test their lungs and love chunky gravel, the climb to Dinkle Lake and up toward Mount Sopris offers one of the most rewarding high-elevation gravel rides in the area.
Ride Stats: ~2,000–3,000 feet of climbing depending on route.
What to Expect: Washboard sections, beautiful alpine meadows, and serious solitude.
McClure Pass and Beyond (Marble/Redstone) – Mixed
This one is for the climbers. Starting in Carbondale or Redstone, make your way up the paved switchbacks of McClure Pass and drop into some of the most remote and raw gravel in the region. Continue down to Marble or even link into Kebler Pass if you’re going big.
What You’ll Need: Wide gearing, good tires, and snacks. Lots of snacks.
Why Ride Here?
What makes the Roaring Fork Valley special isn’t just the variety of terrain—it’s the access. You can roll out from your front door in Carbondale or Basalt and hit 30–100 mile routes with almost no traffic lights, no crowds, and world-class views at every turn. Add in a thriving cycling community, great coffee shops, and post-ride rivers to cool off in, and it’s no wonder more of us are taking long breaks from our mountain bikes.
Need help choosing the right gravel setup or tire combo for these routes? Come by the shop—we’re always down to chat about bikes, routes, and get your ride dialed.
Just visiting? We've got you covered. All our locations offer high-end gravel and road bike rentals, so you can show up and ride without the hassle of traveling with your own gear. Our fleet is tuned and ready to roll—whether you’re tackling mellow trails or going big into the high country, we’ll set you up with the perfect ride and local route recommendations to match.
