The best cycling routes around Basalt
5.0
(4)
132
riders
12
rides
Touring cycling routes around Basalt, Colorado, navigate a landscape characterized by the Roaring Fork River valley, surrounding hills, and distant mountain views. The region offers a mix of paved paths and quieter roads, providing access to scenic river corridors and elevated plateaus. Basalt's terrain includes gradual ascents and descents, typical of a high-desert mountain environment.
Best touring cycling routes around Basalt
- The most popular touring cycling route is Missouri Heights loop, a 21.3 miles (34.3 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
1
riders
34.3km
02:25
510m
510m
Cycle the difficult Missouri Heights loop, a 21.3-mile route with 1684 feet of gain and panoramic mountain views near Carbondale.
5.0
(2)
29
riders
92.6km
05:57
710m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
riders
42.0km
03:07
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
30
riders
37.8km
02:18
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
35.6km
02:26
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Rio Grande Trail is 42 miles between Glenwood Springs and Aspen. The trail is fully paved and traffic-free, except for crossings at intersections. This is a beautiful section that takes you into Carbondale.
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The road up to the top of Watson Divide is a well-maintained dirt road. The climb is challenging, but it is worth it for the view at the top.
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Here, Sunnyside Trail branches off the Rio Grande Trail and continues up towards Red Mountain. Sunnyside Trail is a popular trail in the area for hikers and runners, so expect to see others on the way up. In total, this trail runs about 10 miles, but there are some very nice overlooks a couple of miles in before reaching the aspen grove that make a good turn around spot if you are looking to make a shorter trip.
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Prince Creek Trailhead provides access to great mountain bike, trail running and hiking trails. The trails range from a quick afternoon loop to an all-day 20+ mile loop. There are also several dispersed campsites along Prince Creek Road leading up to the trailhead.
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Aspen, Colorado, the world-famous ski resort town, is a great place to kick off or end your ride by exploring the historic downtown area. Cruise through the streets with Victorian architecture, checking out local shops and art galleries, grab a quick coffee at one of the nearby cafes, or stop by one of the diverse restaurants in town for a meal, before hitting the road again.
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Brush Creek Trail is a paved trail that runs through Wilton Jaffee Sr. Park and offers views of the Roaring Fork River. This trail extends a bit further south and connects to other paths in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Basalt?
Basalt offers over 10 touring cycling routes, providing a variety of options for exploring the region's river valleys, open ranchlands, and mountain views.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Basalt?
Yes, Basalt has several easy touring cycling routes. For example, the Rio Grande Trail – Carbondale loop from Basalt is a moderate option that follows the scenic Rio Grande River corridor, offering a less strenuous ride.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Basalt?
The best time for touring cycling in Basalt is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and the trails are clear of snow, offering ideal conditions to enjoy the scenic landscapes.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes around Basalt?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Rio Grande Trail – Rio Grande Trail loop from Mulford is a challenging 57.5-mile (92.6 km) path. This route follows the Rio Grande River corridor, featuring varied terrain and expansive views over a significant distance.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling options in Basalt?
Many sections of the Rio Grande Trail are suitable for families, offering paved and relatively flat surfaces away from vehicle traffic. These paths provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages to experience the river scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Basalt?
Basalt's touring cycling routes feature a mix of paved paths and quieter roads. You'll encounter terrain typical of a high-desert mountain environment, including gradual ascents and descents, river valleys, and open landscapes with views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available in Basalt?
Yes, Basalt offers several circular routes. A popular option is the Missouri Heights loop, which provides panoramic views from elevated terrain. Another is the Rio Grande Trail – Prince Creek Trailhead loop from Hooks Lane Trailhead, leading through river valleys and open landscapes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Basalt?
The touring cycling routes in Basalt are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the scenic river corridors, the variety of terrain, and the expansive views of the Rocky Mountains.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Many routes in Basalt offer scenic viewpoints, particularly those that gain elevation. The Missouri Heights loop is known for its panoramic views from elevated terrain, showcasing the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the touring cycling routes?
The Rio Grande Trail, which many touring routes utilize, connects several towns including Basalt, Carbondale, and Aspen. You'll find various cafes, restaurants, and shops in these towns where you can stop for refreshments and breaks.
What are some advanced touring cycling routes for experienced riders in Basalt?
Experienced riders looking for a challenge can consider routes like the Rio Grande Trail – Rio Grande Trail loop from Mulford, which is a difficult 57.5-mile (92.6 km) path with significant elevation changes. The Missouri Heights loop also offers a challenging ride with substantial elevation gain.
Are there any touring cycling routes that are less known or considered 'hidden gems'?
While the Rio Grande Trail is well-known, exploring its various segments and connecting paths can reveal quieter sections. For instance, the Rio Grande Trail – Basalt loop from El Jebel offers a moderate ride that might be less frequented than the main trail sections closer to Basalt's center, providing a more serene experience.
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