Eagle

The Eagle Valley Trail offers a fantastic road cycling experience, winding through Colorado's picturesque Eagle River Valley. You'll enjoy diverse scenery, from open spaces and golf courses to charming residential neighborhoods, all set against a backdrop of stunning mountain and river vistas. The trail often runs right alongside the Eagle River, providing constant views, and the section near Vail is particularly scenic, evoking a 'mini-Switzerland' feel at the base of the ski resort. It's a predominantly paved route, perfect for a long, engaging ride.

Planning your ride on this route is straightforward, as it connects several towns along the I-70 corridor, including Vail, Eagle, and Dotsero, offering multiple access points. While the trail is generally easy to moderate, covering 63.4 miles (102.0 km) with 2331 feet (710 metres) of elevation gain over about 4 hours and 53 minutes, be prepared for some gradual uphill climbs, especially when heading eastward. The trail can get busy, so stay alert for other users, particularly around blind corners.

This multi-use, non-motorized path is a significant regional asset, designed for all ages and connecting to other local trail networks. Its close proximity to the Eagle River is a defining characteristic, and the long-term vision is to create a continuous 63-mile route from Vail Pass to Glenwood Canyon. The trail allows you to explore local businesses and recreation centers in the towns it passes through, making it more than just a ride but an exploration of the valley.

The Eagle Valley Trail offers a truly diverse road cycling experience, winding alongside the scenic Eagle River and through riparian areas, golf courses, and residential neighborhoods. You'll be treated to continuous views of the surrounding mountains and canyons, with the section near Vail often described as a “mini-Switzerland.” The trail is primarily paved, though some older parts might have cracks, and you'll encounter a mix of dedicated paths and widened shoulders.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail connects several communities like Eagle and Gypsum, providing numerous access points and parking options within these towns. While much of the route is considered easy, be ready for some gradual uphill climbs, particularly towards Vail, contributing to its moderate difficulty. The best time to cycle is often in the fall when the vibrant foliage adds an extra layer of beauty to the journey.

This impressive 58.6-mile (94.4 km) route, with 1999 feet (609 metres) of elevation gain, is a key part of an ongoing project to create a continuous 63-mile paved trail from Vail Pass to Glenwood Canyon. It's a significant non-motorized corridor, offering convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and amenities in the towns it traverses. Expect to spend around 4 hours and 26 minutes on this ride, making it a substantial outing for road cyclists.

Tackle the difficult 33.3-mile Eagle to Hardscrabble Mountain Road, gaining 3791 feet with big mountain views and diverse terrain.