The best cycling routes around El Jebel
5.0
(9)
277
riders
12
rides
Touring cycling routes around El Jebel offer diverse terrain in the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Roaring Fork River, providing flat sections ideal for cycling, alongside more challenging ascents into surrounding hills. Routes often feature views of the Elk Mountains and the valley's agricultural landscapes. The region's geography supports a variety of touring cycling experiences, from riverside paths to elevated loops.
Best touring cycling routes around El Jebel
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 11, 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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around El Jebel?
There are over a dozen touring cycling routes around El Jebel listed on komoot, offering various distances and difficulty levels. In total, there are 14 routes to explore.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in El Jebel?
Yes, El Jebel offers several easy touring cycling routes. There are 3 routes specifically categorized as easy, often featuring flatter sections along the Roaring Fork River. These are ideal for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.
What is the typical length of touring cycling routes in El Jebel?
Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter routes, such as the Rio Grande Trail – Carbondale loop from Basalt at 23.8 miles (38.3 km), or more extensive options like the Rio Grande Trail – Rio Grande Trail loop from Mulford, which spans 57.6 miles (92.6 km).
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in El Jebel?
Parking is available at various trailheads in the area. For example, the Sutey Ranch Trailhead is a known parking location that can serve as a starting point for exploring nearby routes.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in El Jebel for experienced riders?
Absolutely. El Jebel is home to 7 difficult touring cycling routes. These often include significant elevation gains and longer distances, such as the Missouri Heights loop with over 500 meters of ascent, providing a good test for experienced cyclists.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes around El Jebel?
The routes in El Jebel offer diverse scenery, characterized by the Roaring Fork Valley. You'll experience riverside paths, views of the Elk Mountains, and agricultural landscapes. Elevated loops provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding high-desert terrain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available in El Jebel?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in El Jebel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Missouri Heights loop and the Rio Grande Trail – Prince Creek Trailhead loop from Hooks Lane Trailhead.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in El Jebel?
The touring cycling routes in El Jebel are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from 9 reviews. Over 260 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain and scenic beauty.
What interesting places can I see along the touring cycling routes near El Jebel?
While cycling, you can encounter several points of interest. Notable attractions include the unique Mushroom Rock, the charming towns of Carbondale and Basalt, and the historic Satank Bridge.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes in El Jebel?
Yes, El Jebel offers 4 moderate touring cycling routes. These routes provide a balanced challenge, suitable for cyclists with some experience. An example is the Rio Grande Trail – Basalt loop from El Jebel, which covers 36.6 miles (376m elevation).
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