Brush Creek Trail to Rim Trail loop

The loop offers a varied experience. The initial section on the paved Brush Creek Trail is generally considered beginner to easy, with some steep sections. However, the Rim Trail portion is more challenging, rated as advanced due to significant aerobic demands and steep climbs, including an initial 700-foot vertical climb and another 400-foot climb. It's well-built for bikes with smooth dirt and widely-rounded switchbacks.

The entire loop, covering approximately 18 kilometers (11.2 miles) with over 550 meters (1,800 feet) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours to complete by mountain bike, depending on your pace and stops.

You can typically find parking near the Brush Creek Trailhead in Snowmass Village. The Brush Creek Trail is a main artery of the village's paved trail system, making it accessible from various points within Snowmass.

The Rim Trail is renowned for its remarkable 360-degree views from high points, showcasing the Old Snowmass Valley, a lake, and New Snowmass. A notable landmark is the 'Yin Yang' marble cement slab, also known as Spiral Point. The trail also passes through varied landscapes, including forests with aspens and sage meadows.

The trail is best enjoyed during warmer months. Be aware that the North Rim Trail has a seasonal wildlife closure from December 1st to May 16th. Additionally, certain sections of the Brush Creek Trail are subject to winter closures for wildlife migration. The Rim Trail can be quite exposed to the southern sun, making it hot on warm days, so plan accordingly.

While specific rules for this exact loop aren't detailed, many trails in the Snowmass Village area allow dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash. It's always best to check local signage at the trailhead for the most current regulations regarding dogs on the Brush Creek Trail and Rim Trail sections.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride the Brush Creek Trail to Rim Trail loop or to access Sky Mountain Park. However, always respect trail regulations and seasonal closures, especially those related to wildlife.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of the Brush Creek Trail, Rim Trail North, and Rim Trail South. It also briefly touches upon other paths like Upper North Mesa Equestrian Trail, Hawk Ridge, Mountain View Trail, Mayfly Edu, and Spiral Point.

It is generally recommended to ride the Rim Trail in a clockwise direction, particularly the South to North section. This direction is often preferred for its flow and to manage the significant climbs more effectively.

The loop starts on the paved Brush Creek Trail, offering a smooth, albeit sometimes steep, ascent. Once you transition to the Rim Trail, the terrain changes to a well-built singletrack with a very smooth dirt surface. You'll encounter widely-rounded switchbacks and significant climbs, but minimal technical obstacles.

The paved Brush Creek Trail section is generally suitable for families and beginners. However, the Rim Trail portion is rated as advanced due to its steep climbs and aerobic demands, making the full loop less suitable for young children or beginner mountain bikers. Families might consider riding only the easier sections of the Brush Creek Trail.