East of Aspen and Ajax Trail Loop

This loop offers a varied experience. The East of Aspen Trail section is generally easy, featuring wide paths, paved sections, and soft-surface dirt, making it accessible for many riders. The Ajax Trail, however, is a 1.5-mile dirt singletrack on Aspen Mountain. While rated easy to moderate, it can be more challenging for mountain biking due to steeper, twisty switchbacks and sections with loose rock. Overall, the loop is rated as easy, but be prepared for some more technical sections on Ajax.

You'll encounter a mix of terrain. The East of Aspen Trail features paved sections, smooth dirt paths, and wood plank bridges. It's a wide, multi-use trail. The Ajax Trail transitions to a dirt singletrack with packed dirt, some loose rock, and switchbacks. Riding the Ajax Trail east to west typically involves a gradual climb followed by a flowing, rocky, and steeper descent with tight turns.

The East of Aspen Trail parallels the scenic Roaring Fork River, offering picturesque views and an interpretive wildlife-viewing stand at the North Star Nature Preserve. If you visit in autumn, you'll enjoy beautiful fall colors. The Ajax Trail provides great views of Aspen as you climb and descend Aspen Mountain.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride parts of the Rio Grande Trail, the East of Aspen Trail, the Ajax Trail, and the Mascotte 99 Trail. Other trails like Aspen Mountain Road, Scotties, Snyder Park Trail, Little Nell Trail, Ute Avenue Trail, and Mollie Gibson Trail are also part of the overall network in the area.

Yes, the East of Aspen Trail is multi-use and generally dog-friendly, but dogs should always be kept on a leash. For the Ajax Trail and other sections, always check local regulations and signage, as rules can vary. It's good practice to always keep your dog under control and pack out any waste.

The best time to ride this loop is typically from late spring through early fall. The East of Aspen Trail is particularly beautiful in autumn with vibrant fall colors. Always check current trail conditions, especially in spring when snowmelt can affect paths, or after heavy rains.

No specific permits or entrance fees are generally required to ride this loop, which is located in the White River National Forest. However, always respect forest regulations, practice Leave No Trace principles, and be aware of any temporary closures or restrictions.

Since this loop combines trails, parking options can vary. For the East of Aspen Trail, you can often find parking near the North Star Nature Preserve or other access points southeast of Aspen. For the Ajax Trail, it's very accessible from downtown Aspen, so public parking garages or street parking (with attention to restrictions) in Aspen would be options. Consider starting from a central point in Aspen to easily connect to both trail sections.

This loop is a custom combination rather than a single, officially designated trail. You'll connect the easier, scenic riverside path of the East of Aspen Trail with the more technical singletrack of the Ajax Trail. This typically involves riding through downtown Aspen or using local bike paths to link the two distinct sections. Be prepared for some in-town navigation to complete the loop.

Along the East of Aspen Trail, which parallels the Roaring Fork River, you might spot various bird species and smaller mammals. There's even an interpretive wildlife-viewing stand at the North Star Nature Preserve. In the more forested and mountainous sections, keep an eye out for deer, elk, and other common Rocky Mountain wildlife. Always observe from a distance and do not disturb animals.