Things to Do
Explore Snowmass’s stunning mountain scenery with paved winding roads, challenging climbs, and exhilarating descents with breathtaking views at every turn
From the paved network of trails in Snowmass, families can take a leisurely pedal down to the Woody Creek Tavern for lunch or up into Aspen on the Rio Grande trail without ever having to ride on a road. The Rio Grande Trail, which follows the region's historic old rail line, extends over 40 miles between Aspen and Glenwood Springs. Roaring Fork Transit Authority Buses (RFTA) can shuttle you home from towns up and down the route.
For the more serious road rider, the scenic Owl Creek Road rises between Snowmass and Aspen airport. Riders can then bike into downtown Aspen or pedal up into McLain Flats with its spectacular Snowmass views and frequent elk sightings.
From Aspen's roundabout, two popular road rides include Maroon Creek Road, which takes riders up to the famous Maroon Bells (home to North America’s most photographed peaks), or Castle Creek Road, which winds up to the historic ghost town of Ashcroft and to the Pine Creek Cookhouse. For the very ambitious rider, the Independence Pass climb tops out on the Continental Divide with some of the best mountain vistas in Colorado.
All three roads are narrow with road traffic and should be ridden with care. Plenty of additional road rides are available in the Aspen, Basalt, and Carbondale areas of the Roaring Fork Valley.
Need to rent gear or want a guide to show you the region? Check out the outfitters and gear shops below.
