Road Running in Aspen, CO

Castle Creek Road provides road runners access to a long, stunning valley with views of soaring peaks, groves of aspen and spruce, and ultimately, to the famous ghost town of Ashcroft. The run is considered difficult, as there is a decent amount of climbing, more than 12 miles one way or 24 miles roundtrip.

Thanks to Aspen's extensive paved bike path system, it's possible to run from Aspen to Snowmass without the interference or distraction of passing cars. Starting from the bike route on Hopkins Avenue in downtown Aspen, runners can easily navigate their way to Snowmass and enjoy views of the gorgeous Roaring Fork Valley, Aspen Golf Course, Maroon and Castle Creeks, the Aspen Airport and the spectacular meadows along Owl Creek Road.

This relatively flat 42-mile trail runs from Aspen U.S. Post Office to Glenwood Springs adjacent to the mighty Roaring Fork River. The trail cuts through riverside aspen groves and open sage bush-dotted meadows that provide snow-capped Rocky Mountain views. You can expect to see waterfalls, fishermen and wildlife.

Runners looking for a moderate road climb and spectacular views will truly enjoy a run up Maroon Creek Road. After ascending for nearly eight miles from Aspen's roundabout, runners round a bend and are rewarded with one of North America's best views: the 14,000-foot Maroon Bells. In September, the run is especially spectacular thanks to the brilliant aspen leaves and snow-capped peaks.

This is not your typical road run, in fact it's a dirt road that climbs up the side of Aspen's Smuggler Mountain. Early in the morning, around lunchtime and in the afternoons you'll find local Aspenites running and hiking up Smuggler Mountain. Located on the outskirts of downtown Aspen, Smuggler Mountain is convenient for a quick run.