Red Butte Trail Running

Review

Intro

Located just 2.5 miles from downtown Aspen, the Red Butte Trail offers trail runners a quick .6-mile jaunt. The Red Butte Trail climbs along Red Butte mountain, the red-hued mound that rises out of the western edges of Aspen. The trail switchbacks quickly from the trailhead on Cemetery Lane and then follows the mound's ridge-line. As the trail ascends, the terrain becomes rocky and loose and should be executed carefully. 

What Makes It Great

From the summit, runners can enjoy a breather and spectacular views of the downtown Aspen to the east, the Aspen Golf Course directly below and of course, the surrounding mountains, especially the 14,000-foot Pyramid Peak and Mount Sopris. The Red Butte Trail is the perfect option for a quick run or for a longer run if connected with the Rio Grande Trail, which is a couple minutes' walk down the hill from the Red Butte. Those running from downtown Aspen will hop on the Rio Grande trail from the U.S. Post Office and run the two miles.

Who is Going to Love It

Adventurous runners who like adding on fun ascents and taking in spectacular views during their runs.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

From downtown Aspen, drive west on Highway 82. Cross over the Castle Creek Bridge and make a right onto Cemetery Lane. Drive down the hill and over the Stein Park Bridge and park in the Stein Park lot. From the lot, walk over the bridge along the pedestrian walk-way and up the hill for a couple minutes until you reach the Red Butte trailhead on the right. It will be shortly after Mountain View Drive.