The Roaring Fork Valley was named a gold-level ride center by the International Mountain Bike Association in January 2020, making it the first destination in Colorado to earn the designation. The valley’s extensive trail system includes more than 300 miles of terrain and spans from Glenwood Springs through Carbondale and Basalt to Snowmass and Aspen. And it offers routes for all mountain bikers—beginners to the most advanced. With so many routes to explore, we’ve come up with the top cross- country trails for bikers at all levels.
Beginner Trails
Hunter Creek Valley
As one of Aspen’s most popular hiking and biking areas, the Hunter Creek Valley offers out-and-back routes through the valley that stretch several miles. Experience the tree-lined hillsides with historic mining cabins along the trail. For the less experienced riders, upper Hunter Creek can be accessed via Red Mountain Road.
Rim Trail
Located just across from Snowmass Base Village on Divide Drive, Rim Trail not only pushes beginners to test their cross-country trail skills, but it also provides sweeping views of the Snowmass area, including Snowmass Mountain and Mount Daly. Riders will experience quick, easy climbs and easy-to-handle descents.
Intermediate Trails
Tom Blake
Beginning at Owl Creek Road in Snowmass, this dirt, single-track trail is little more than 3 miles. It gradually climbs through aspen trees, crosses the wildflower-filled ski slopes and finishes at Snowmass Village Mall. A nice warmup for longer rides.
Sky Mountain Park
The newly completed Sky Mountain Park offers 8 miles of two-way biking trails. Riders can access these trails via three access points. The interconnected trails are perfect for intermediate riders looking to practice their skills and comfortably challenge themselves. This area also offers beautiful 360-degree views of Snowmass and the Roaring Fork Valley.
Advanced Trail
Government This 6.6-mile trail begins in Snowmass and takes riders all the way to Aspen. As one of Aspen’s most challenging and well-known trails, it offers both cardio intensive uphill sections as well as technical rocky areas. As riders make their way to Aspen, they will experience rides through beautiful aspen groves, across streams, alongside meadows and to fantastic overlooks.
Photography by: By Tim Foster/Unsplash
