Vail Pass Bike Path
Vail Pass Bike Path: A Rocky Mountain High
Vail Pass Bike Path: A Scenic Mountain Escape
Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating descents on the Vail Pass Bike Path, a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts in the Colorado Rockies.
The Vail Pass Bike Path is a paved recreation trail that follows the old Highway 6 route over Vail Pass in Colorado. Popular with cyclists, hikers, and skaters, the path offers stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, forests, and the Gore Creek valley. It's a challenging but rewarding climb to the summit, followed by an exhilarating descent.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Vail Pass Bike Path
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Vail Pass, Colorado 80443, Frisco, CO, 80443, US
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Getting There
Driving
From Frisco, take I-70 East towards Vail. Take Exit 201 for Frisco Main Street. Turn left onto Main Street, and then turn right onto CO-9 S. Continue onto I-70 E. Take exit 190 for Vail Pass Rest Area. Parking is available at the rest area. Be aware of potential traffic holds due to construction on I-70, particularly during the summer months. Parking is free at the Vail Pass Rest Area. During peak season, the parking can fill up quickly.
Biking
From Frisco, access the paved recreation path on the west end of town. Follow the path through Tenmile Canyon towards Copper Mountain. Continue along Copper Road to the west end of the resort, where the paved path picks up again on the right. Proceed for 4.5 miles through the valley between I-70's east and west bound lanes to the rest area at the summit. The bike path is free to use. Some local bike shops offer shuttle services to the top of Vail Pass from Frisco.
Public Transport
From Frisco, take the Summit Stage bus to Copper Mountain. From Copper Mountain, follow Copper Road for 2 miles to the west end of the resort. Pick up the paved path on the right and continue for 4.5 miles to the Vail Pass Rest Area. The Summit Stage is free to use. Check the Summit Stage website for schedules and routes.
Local tips
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Acclimatize to the high elevation before attempting the full climb to Vail Pass.
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Dress in layers, as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly.
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Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
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Do a brake check before descending, as some sections can be steep.
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Be aware of other users on the path, especially cyclists, and stay to the right.
Discover more about Vail Pass Bike Path
The Vail Pass Bike Path, also known as the Vail Pass National Recreation Trail, is a popular paved path that traverses the scenic Vail Pass in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. The path provides recreational opportunities for cyclists, hikers, and inline skaters.
Constructed in the 1970s, the path follows the route of the original Highway 6, offering a glimpse into the area's transportation history. The path is the only mountain pass in Colorado with a separated bike path on both sides of the highway. The pass was named for Charles D. “Charley” Vail, one of Colorado's most influential highway engineers.
The Vail Pass Bike Path stretches for 14.8 miles between Copper Mountain and near Vail, gaining approximately 1,831 feet in elevation. The path offers stunning views of the Gore and Tenmile Ranges, Copper Mountain Ski Resort, and the surrounding alpine environment. Along the way, travelers can enjoy the beauty of Black Gore Creek and the serene Gore Creek. The path passes by the Vail Pass Rest Area near the summit, offering restrooms, picnic areas, and visitor information.
The Vail Pass Bike Path is a popular destination for those seeking outdoor recreation and stunning mountain scenery. Whether you're looking for a challenging bike ride, a scenic hike, or a leisurely skate, the Vail Pass Bike Path offers an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Vail Pass Bike Path
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