Exploring Aspen Snowmass on Two Wheels: Mountain Bike Trails for Every Level

Photo: Sam Ferguson

Aspen Snowmass isn’t just a winter sports haven—it’s also a mountain biking paradise with trails to match every skill level, from wide-eyed beginners to seasoned experts. Whether you’re introducing your little ones to the joy of biking or chasing technical descents with stunning views, our valley delivers. Here's your guide to some of the best trails around Aspen and Snowmass, broken down by experience level:

Beginner Trails: Build Confidence and Have Fun

• Butterline Trail (Buttermilk to behind the airport)
  A great intro to cross-country mountain biking, this trail features small climbs, manageable rocks, and gentle turns. It’s a perfect place to warm up before hitting more challenging terrain.

• Verde Trail (Snowmass Bike Park)
  Once you’ve mastered Butterline, head over to the Snowmass Bike Park and try Verde. Ride the Elk Camp Gondola up to enjoy this green-rated downhill trail.  It is ideal for beginners looking for a fun, flowy downhill ride in a bike park setting.

• Moore Open Space Trail (Entrance to Aspen)
  If you're biking with young children or true beginners, this mellow trail in town is perfect. It’s flat, open, and safe for practicing those first pedals.

Intermediate Trails: Take it Up a Notch

• Sky Mountain Park (Airline, Cozyline, Viewline, Deadline)
  These trails are known for being smooth with a few short, punchy climbs, the occasional rock garden, and ledges to keep things interesting. They’re perfect for intermediate riders gaining confidence on varied terrain.

• Airline & Deadline
  Airline is a fun one-way uphill and on-way downhill on the Aspen side of Skyline Park with great views and gentle grades.  On the Snowmass side Deadline offers a thrilling downhill-only ride—perfect for those looking to add some speed and flow to their ride.

• Campground Connector (Snowmass Mountain)
  Shaded and scenic, this trail offers a gradual climb after some initial switchbacks and is a favorite for a cool mid-day ride. This ride connects with Verde on Snowmass Mountain.  

• Tom Blake Trail
  A local classic, Tom Blake weaves through aspen groves and offers a great mix of climbs and descents—challenging enough to keep you engaged without being overwhelming.

Advanced Trails: Challenge Yourself

• Snowmass Mountain Bike Park – Advanced Zone
  Technical trails, steep descents, and expert features await advanced riders here. From drops and jumps to rugged terrain, this is where seasoned bikers can really test their skills.

• Buttermilk to Government Trail
  A long climb up Buttermilk rewards you with a thrilling single-track descent that intersects with the iconic Government Trail—a must-ride for any experienced mountain biker.

• Smuggler Mountain & Hunter Creek Valley
  These interconnected trail systems are a playground for advanced bikers. Steep climbs, narrow single-track, and rocky descents wind through lush terrain and offer a true backcountry feel.

• Hummingbird Trail
  The newest addition to the area, Hummingbird offers breathtaking views of the entire valley and beyond, along with a rewarding and technical ride.

Ready to Ride?

Aspen Snowmass offers some of the most scenic and well-maintained mountain biking in Colorado. Whether you're cruising mellow terrain with your kids or diving into high-alpine singletrack, there's a trail waiting for you. Grab your bike, helmet, and sense of adventure—and hit the dirt!