The best cycling routes around El Jebel
5.0
(5)
235
riders
15
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: October 24, 2026
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.
30
riders
60.9km
04:00
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
16
riders
41.0km
03:03
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
38
riders
32.1km
01:57
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
34.7km
02:25
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful section of the Rio Grande Trail that runs next to Roaring Fork River through Newberry Park and Rio Grande Park. The parks have restrooms, picnic benches, and parking.
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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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The Rio Grande Trail navigates along the Roaring Fork River with sections of shade, mountain views, and a host of places to stop and swim in the river.
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Carbondale is a picturesque town located at the base of Mt. Sopris and confluence of the Crystal and Roaring Fork Rivers. National Geographic Adventure Magazine has ranked it as one of "The Top 10 Adventure Towns in the U.S.", so there is no shortage of outdoor activities. It is also a "Certified Colorado Creative District", so it has a vibrant art scene as well.
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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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