A Guide to E-Biking Around Aspen Snowmass

While e-bikes have become increasingly popular, the rules around them can still be confusing. In general, e-bikes are not allowed on singletrack mountain bike trails in or around Aspen Snowmass, but they are permitted on paved service roads and the Rio Grande Trail, which stretches from Aspen all the way down the valley to Glenwood Springs. Below are five of the best e-bike routes in the area, each with its own character, scenery, and stops worth making.

1. Owl Creek Trail

Distance: 5.8 miles (round trip: 11.6 miles) | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Elevation gain: Minimal | Surface: Paved

Starting from Snowmass Village or Buttermilk, this scenic rural trail wraps around Sky Mountain Park and boasts pretty views of Mt. Daley, plus beautiful herds of elk and horses grazing in open meadows. It's one of the most accessible rides in the valley and perfect for families or anyone looking for a relaxed pace.

Where to stop: Pack a picnic or grab food from Snowmass Village restaurants before heading out. The trail loops back to your starting point, making it easy to return to town for lunch or dinner.

2. East of Aspen Trail to the North Star Nature Preserve

Distance: 4 miles round trip (2 miles each way) | Difficulty: Easy | Elevation gain: Minimal | Surface: Paved trail

Take the East of Aspen Trail heading east of town toward Independence Pass about two miles and discover the peaceful North Star Nature Preserve—where the Roaring Fork River meanders gently and wildlife abounds. This is one of the quietest, most serene rides in the valley, perfect for bird-watching and nature lovers.

Dining: This is a quick, close-to-town ride, so grab coffee or breakfast before heading out and return for a more substantial meal afterward.

Pro Tip: Early morning is the best time for this ride for both wildlife viewing and solitude.

3. Up Maroon Creek to the Bells

Distance: 8.6 miles one-way from Aspen Highlands (11.5 miles from downtown Aspen) | Difficulty: Moderate | Elevation gain: 600–800 feet | Surface: Paved road with light traffic

For an unforgettable way to experience the Maroon Bells —Colorado's most photographed mountains—rent an e-bike and ride up Maroon Creek Road. The route winds through a dense forest of aspen and pine trees, with the creek babbling alongside you for most of the journey. As you climb, the trees open up, and suddenly the iconic peaks come into view.

Dining & rest stops: There's a picnic area near the Maroon Bells parking lot where you can rest, refuel, and take in the views. Pack snacks or grab food before heading out from town. Stop frequently for photos and to catch your breath.

Return trip: The descent is faster and easier. Enjoy the downhill coast back to town as a reward for the climb.

Pro tip: Start early (before 10 AM) to avoid crowds at the trailhead and secure parking.

4. Rio Grande Trail to Woody Creek Tavern

Distance: 7.8 miles one-way (15.6 miles round trip) | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Elevation gain: Minimal (mostly flat) | Surface: Paved multi-use path

Take the iconic Rio Grande Trail (the valley's most popular recreational pathway) 7.8 miles from Four Mountain Sports in Aspen to the legendary Woody Creek Tavern, the famous hangout of gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson. This is an iconic Aspen ride: flat, scenic, and ending with a cold drink and good stories.

The destination: Woody Creek Tavern is a genuine piece of Aspen lore. It’s small, quirky, and full of local energy. Grab a beer, chat with the bartender, and soak in the authentic mountain tavern vibe. This is where the Aspen story lives.

Pro tip: This is a one-way ride, making it perfect for one-way rentals between Four Mountain Sports locations. Ride out in the morning, spend a few hours at the tavern and exploring, then return to town.

Note on speed: Class 1 e-bikes have a 20-mile-per-hour speed limit on the Rio Grande Trail. Keep it at a cruise.

5. Up Castle Creek Road to Ashcroft

Distance: 12 miles one-way (24 miles round trip) | Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging | Elevation gain: 1,200+ feet | Surface: Paved road

Take a 12-mile scenic ride from Aspen's roundabout up Castle Creek Road to Ashcroft, a sleepy old mining town home to several historic ruins and homesteads in an authentic western setting. This is a longer ride with more elevation gain, but the reward is stepping back in time.

Difficulty note: This ride requires more fitness and e-bike battery power than the others. Consider your battery level and fitness before committing. The uphill slog is real, but the downhill return is glorious.

Dining: Pack snacks and water. There are no services in Ashcroft. Return to town for a proper meal after this ride.

Pro tip: This is best attempted mid-morning so you have daylight for the return trip.

E-bikes are powerful, and with that comes responsibility. Follow these rules to keep yourself, other riders, and pedestrians safe.

On the Road & Paved Paths

• Walk your bikes in pedestrian malls.
• Ride with traffic (stay to the right side of the road) unless you're turning left or passing someone.
• Ride single-file, as close to the white line/shoulder as safely possible, when other traffic is present.
• Always bring a light when riding at night. A white light up front and reflector behind is best.
• Signal your intentions. Let everyone know you're turning or stopping by signaling with your left or right arm. When stopping, signal with your left arm downward.
• Stop at stop signs and obey traffic lights.
• Always wear a helmet. No exceptions.

On Multi-Use Paths (Rio Grande Trail, etc.)

• Ride on the right side of the path.
• Give audible warnings when passing (a simple "passing on your left" works great).
• You can ride side-by-side as long as you're not impeding traffic, but move to single-file when appropriate so others can pass.
• E-bikes are prohibited on singletrack trails. Respect trail closures and designations.
• Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on the Rio Grande Trail, where there's a 20-mile-per-hour speed limit. Keep it chill.

The Golden Rule

Treat every trail, path, and road with respect. Smile, wave, let faster riders pass, and help others enjoy the valley as much as you do. This place is special because everyone takes care of it