Vail Pass to Vail Bike Path

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Of the myriad bike paths in Summit and Eagle counties (connecting Beaver Creek to Breckenridge and Keystone!), this is one of the more popular stretches, but not really the best. It is, however, extremely popular with locals looking for hill climb training, and for tourists, who get dropped off at the pass and cruise downhill to Vail. (Also good to start at the same place but go to Copper or Frisco, which is equally popular, and a better ride).

From the North end of the massive parking lot, follow the paved road that parallels the freeway on the West side. Pass two reservoirs (Black Lake 1 and Black Lake 2, popular with fishermen). The road becomes paved path at this point and is set apart from the highway. It is quite pleasant at this point with good views of Black Gore Creek.

The next stretch is immediately adjacent to the highway and is much less pleasant. Oncoming trucks are noisy and a little scary (there's not even a guardrail here). Soon enough, you swing around, go down steeply, then make a sharp right turn and go under the freeway. Accidents occur here regularly - go slow!

Past the freeway, go slightly uphill and into the forest. Cross over Polk Creek, then a little further until you meet the Old Vail Pass Road. This road was abandoned long ago and is now just a nice wide, newly-paved bike path. Scream on down until the path ends at Bighorn Road and a parking area.

To continue to Vail, follow Bighorn Road for a mile or two until you find the Gore Creek Valley Trail (east) turning off to the left. It is right near the East Vail highway exit.