Rio Grande Trail – Marolt Open Space loop from Aspen
Rio Grande Trail – Marolt Open Space loop from Aspen
2.5
(9)
35
riders
Rio Grande Trail – Marolt Open Space loop from Aspen
03:11
64.4km
660m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Tips
The surface along some of this route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 1.12 km for 180 m
After 63.2 km for 615 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
1.20 km
Moore Open Space
Highlight • Trail
Notable features include the Moore Trail singletrack connecting Maroon Creek Road, the Aspen Recreation Center, and the Tiehack Bridge bike/pedestrian crossing, as well as a winter nordic loop with access to the Aspen Golf Course nordic trails. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed and kept on designated trails.
Tip by
3.83 km
Rio Grande Trail from Henry Stein Park
Highlight • Trail
8.26 km
Roaring Fork River
Lake
16.0 km
Rio Grande Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
31.3 km
Basalt
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
63.2 km
Marolt Open Space
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
63.5 km
Marolt Open Space
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
64.4 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
37.2 km
21.3 km
3.50 km
1.46 km
631 m
239 m
105 m
Surfaces
41.6 km
21.8 km
817 m
156 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,420 m)
Lowest point (2,010 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 17 July
27°C
11°C
69 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a rewarding road cycling experience near Aspen, the Rio Grande Trail – Marolt Open Space loop delivers. This moderate 40.1-mile (64.6 km) route, with 2173 feet (662 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 3 hours and 12 minutes, making it an excellent choice for cyclists with good fitness seeking diverse scenery and a substantial ride.
What to expect on Rio Grande Trail – Marolt Open Space loop from Aspen
This route offers a journey through varied terrain, primarily on asphalt, but be prepared for some sections of concrete and compacted gravel, including a few unpaved stretches that might challenge a pure road bike. As you pedal, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Roaring Fork River, often separated from Highway 82 for a more peaceful ride. Keep an eye out for historic old ranch buildings and potential wildlife sightings like bald eagles or deer, especially as you pass through the Marolt Open Space, often called Aspen's "crown jewel." The ride demands good fitness, particularly if you encounter the unpaved segments, but the changing landscapes and continuous multi-use path make the effort worthwhile.
Planning your visit
The Rio Grande Trail is highly accessible from multiple points, and you can even use RFTA bus service, which accommodates bikes, to reach various trailheads. While specific parking details for the Marolt Open Space trailhead aren't provided, the trail generally offers amenities like benches and picnic tables along the way. Consider riding in the fall for peak colors, though the trail is enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Always carry enough water, especially on longer rides, and be aware that some sections may require more robust tires than a typical road bike offers.
Trail details
- Distance: 40.1 miles (64.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 2173 feet (662 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 12 minutes
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