Vail Pass Bike Path: A Rocky Mountain High

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Experience the Rockies on two wheels! A scenic paved path with breathtaking views for cyclists, hikers, and skaters between Vail and Copper Mountain.

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Vail Pass Bike Path

The Vail Pass Bike Path is a paved recreation trail that follows the old Highway 6 route over Vail Pass in central Colorado. Popular with cyclists, hikers, and skaters, it offers stunning views of the Gore and Tenmile Ranges as it traverses the pass between Vail and Copper Mountain.

A brief summary to Vail Pass Bike Path

Vail Pass, Colorado 80443, Frisco, CO, 80443, US

Local tips

Acclimatize to the altitude before tackling the Vail Pass Bike Path, as the elevation can be challenging.
Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your ride or hike.
Consider using a shuttle service to the top of Vail Pass for an easier, mostly downhill ride.
Be aware of other users on the path, especially cyclists descending at high speeds.

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Getting There

Driving

If driving from Frisco, take I-70 East towards Vail. Take Exit 190 for Vail Pass Rest Area. Parking is available at the rest area, which provides direct access to the Vail Pass Bike Path. Be aware that I-70 may experience closures or delays due to weather or construction, especially during winter months. Check current road conditions before you go. Parking at the Vail Pass Rest Area is free.
Shuttle

Several shuttle services operate from Frisco and Copper Mountain, providing transportation to the top of Vail Pass with bike rentals. These services typically drop you off at the Vail Pass Rest Area, allowing for a downhill ride back to your starting point. Prices vary depending on the company and services included, but expect to pay around $40-$60 for a one-way shuttle with bike rental.
Biking from Frisco

From Frisco, take the Ten Mile Canyon National Recreation Trail east towards Copper Mountain. This paved path parallels Highway 91 and then I-70. Continue past Copper Mountain, where the path becomes the Vail Pass Bike Path. The path gradually ascends to the Vail Pass Rest Area. Be prepared for a steady climb of approximately 1,600 feet over 13 miles. There are no tolls or fees for using the bike path.

Discover more about Vail Pass Bike Path

The Vail Pass Bike Path is a scenic paved trail that offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the Colorado Rockies. Following the route of the original Highway 6, the path runs parallel to Interstate 70, providing access to breathtaking views without the heavy traffic. The path stretches for 14.8 miles between Copper Mountain and Vail, reaching an elevation of 10,600 feet at the Vail Pass rest area. Historically, Vail Pass wasn't a primary route for early settlers. It wasn't until 1940, with the construction of US Route 6, that it became a crucial passage through the central Rocky Mountains. The construction of Interstate 70 in the 1970s further solidified its importance, with the bike path added to provide a recreational element. The path is known as the first separated bicycle path over a mountain pass in Colorado. The Vail Pass Bike Path offers a variety of experiences depending on the direction of travel. Many cyclists opt to take a shuttle to the top of Vail Pass and enjoy a mostly downhill ride to Copper Mountain or Frisco. Others use it for hill climb training, appreciating the steady ascent and high-altitude challenge. Along the way, you'll find alpine meadows, dense forests, and the beauty of Tenmile Canyon. The path passes by Black Lake 1 and 2, popular spots for fishing, and Gore Creek, offering tranquil spots to relax. The Vail Pass Rest Area at the summit provides restrooms, picnic tables, and visitor information. Whether you're looking for a leisurely downhill ride or a challenging uphill workout, the Vail Pass Bike Path offers something for everyone. With its stunning scenery and well-maintained path, it's a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Vail area.