Red Canyon Trail #1933

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Enjoy this trail as a 3+ mile scenic out-and-back ride along the lower slopes of Triangle Peak on your way to the mouth of Red Canyon. Don't expect to bike any further up the canyon, but consider heading up the canyon for a steep hike on a primitive trail through often overgrown vegetation.

The trail passes through some impressive scree field zones as well as pinion, juniper, and sage fields. You'll probably see some small cacti as well, even though Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands ski areas are visible in the distance. The singletrack was built three to four feet wide with sustainable grades.

The fun factor increases further up towards the canyon where the turns and grade reversals feel much more bike optimized. Expect to encounter cantaloupe sized loose rocks on the trail in the lower scree slope sections. If you have some time, lend a hand and clear the trail of this rockfall so you can enjoy your way back a bit more!

This trail was mostly built in 2015 as a result of a settlement agreement between Pitkin County and Aspen Valley Ranch to provide high quality permanent public access to Red Canyon (which starts as BLM land, but soon becomes WRNF land). The trail replaces historic road access now considered private.

Thanks to Pitkin County Open Space for overseeing and making this project happen, AVR for funding the really nice trail (bridges and all!), and Tony Boone Trails & Timberline Landscaping for getting 'er done.