GLENWOOD CANYON RECREATION PATH

Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path opens seasonally, however it may close based on current weather and trail conditions. Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road by visiting COtrip.org. For questions about Glenwood Canyon or the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, please call CDOT Region 3, Monday – Friday at 1-970-243-2368 Ext. 9.

The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path provides easy access to Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado River, making these natural wonders ideal for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. Spanning the entire length of Glenwood Canyon and connecting Interstate 70 rest areas, this route provides endless opportunities to explore on bike or by foot.

The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path is accessible from Glenwood Springs and a perfect place to view wildlife, fish the riverbanks, enjoy a family picnic, watch the Amtrak trains roll through the canyon and cycle for miles on end. Local businesses rent bikes and provide drop-off services so riders only have to ride in one direction.

Learn More

Thanks to engineering magic, the interstate highway through Glenwood Canyon becomes an unobtrusive part of the landscape. While the engineering feats in Glenwood Canyon are nothing short of spectacular, so are the natural wonders. Colorado Department of Transportation designers made sure drivers, cyclists, hikers and boaters all had an opportunity to enjoy the surroundings. Three rest areas, Bair Ranch, Grizzly Creek and No Name, invite visitors to stop and explore different sections of the canyon. Each rest area features parking areas, restrooms, interpretive displays, picnic grounds, water fountains, trash receptacles and access to hiking trails.

Trail Details

• Uses: Cycling of all varieties, walking, hiking and in-line skating
• Length: 16.3 miles one way from Glenwood Springs
• Ability Rating: Moderate
• Usage: Heavy use
• Dogs permitted, with leash

Explore all the things to do in Glenwood Springs; there is something for everyone and a new adventure to be had every day!

Parking

While many choose to bike this path, there is parking available at the various rest areas along the way. The trail head is just past the entrance to Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves. On street parking may or may not be available close to trail head.

Contact Info & Directions

The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail can be accessed from various points including just east of the Yampah Vapor Caves and at the designated interstate rest areas in Glenwood Canyon: No Name, Grizzly Creek and Bair Ranch. It terminates at the east end of Glenwood Canyon at Dotsero. Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) closes the path in late fall and reopens it in the spring.

For questions about Glenwood Canyon or the Glenwoood Canyon Recreation Trail, please call CDOT Region 3 at 970-243-2368.