Cycling enthusiasts have a network of options for biking in Glenwood Springs. Whether you prefer paved or off-road riding, engage pedal power on trails from mild to wild!
Glenwood Springs is a growing haven for cycling of all types. The hot springs and adventure town, known for such attractions as Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, is on the fast track as a Colorado destination for mountain biking, as well as road biking.
Glenwood Springs Biking by the Numbers
300. Number of miles of high-quality mountain biking trails in the Roaring Fork Valley.- 42. Number of miles of paved surface on the Rio Grande Trail between Glenwood Springs and Aspen.
- 16. Number of miles of paved surface on the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path which follows the Colorado River and connects to four rest areas in Glenwood Canyon, including Hanging Lake.
- 5. Top-rated mountain biking trails in Glenwood Springs according to Trailforks.com—Grandstaff, Lightning Bug, Alder Park, Tramway Trail and East Colorow.
- 3. Besides the Rio Grande Trail and Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, these three trails rank among the most popular routes for road biking: Four Mile Road, Spring Valley Loop, Hardwick Bridge Loop.
- 1. The Roaring Fork Valley, including Glenwood Springs, was named a Gold Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Biking Association. The exceptional diversity and accessibility of area trails ensure recreational opportunities for everyone from beginners to elite riders. Check out this map compiled by Roaring Fork Mountain Biking Association (RFMB) for a comprehensive visual and a list of all dirt trails available in the valley.
Trails Improvements & Expansions
In part, the Roaring Fork Valley was chosen as a Gold Level Ride Center because of its dedication to developing new trails. In Glenwood Springs that has translated into a bevy of fresh terrain including:
- Red Mountain Trails. Grind your way to the summit of Red Mountain on the Jeanne Golay Trail; return to the base via the fast and flowy Grandstaff Trail.
- Wulfsohn Trails. Excellent for skill-building and quick training rides, Wulfsohn Trails connect with those on Red Mountain for easy add-on rides.
- South Canyon Trails. The newest in the region, South Canyon Trails are getting rave reviews. Future construction plans include extending the trail system all the way to New Castle!
Fast & Easy: Glenwood Springs E-bikes and Shuttles
Cycling isn’t just for weekend warriors or the super-fit though. The sport is ever-evolving, enabling more people of all ages and abilities to experience the joy of a carefree ride surrounded by the scenic beauty of Glenwood Springs. Visitors can rent e-bikes for touring paved trails or sign up for e-biking tours on backcountry trails at Sunlight Mountain Resort. Use the electric assist for a built-in power boost to glide along at a faster clip or fly up hills without breaking a sweat.
In addition to renting bikes, some cycling outfitters offer one-directional shuttles for rides in Glenwood Canyon. For a reasonable fee, they can rack your bike, drop you off at one of the canyon’s rest areas and leave you to ride back to town at your own pace. A great option for anyone on a tight schedule, shuttles allow you to enjoy riding the full-length of Glenwood Canyon but cut your cycling time in half.
When you want to ride your bicycle—for a slow cruise or a fast-paced descent—there’s no better place in Colorado than Glenwood Springs to go for a ride. Learn more and make plans to visit Glenwood Springs today!
