This rails-to-trails project connects Glenwood Springs to Aspen, Colorado, with a gentle grade and one 42-mile continuum in the Roaring Fork River Valley. Basalt is roughly in the middle of the trail. It’s mostly paved and free from vehicular traffic, except at intersections. Part of the Rio Grande Trail is closed in winter to provide important wildlife habitat.
Difficulty: Easy
From Basalt to the Trailhead: From downtown Basalt, go south/west on Midland Ave. Take a left onto Emma Rd. and then the first exit at the roundabout. Head straight through the stoplight intersection, and then right onto Fiou Ln. Then, a left onto Southside Dr. toward Basalt High School. From the parking lot, if you are facing the school, left goes south to Aspen, and right heads to Glenwood Springs.