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SCOUT TRAIL

Considered by mountain biking aficionados to be one of the best rides in town, Scout Trail, used first by the Ute Native Americans, is a roller coaster ride that drops cyclists into the heart of Glenwood Springs. A Western Slope classic, this ride begins with a moderate 3-mile climb up Red Canyon Road followed by 3 miles of moderately steep, but technically easy doubletrack/ATV road.

The singletrack of Forest Hollow trail begins just a few hundred yards on the left after the climb peaks. The Forest Hollow section is a smooth and flowing trail that meanders through the lush forest of the southern Glenwood Canyon Rim.

Climbing efforts are rewarded by spectacular views high on the rim of Glenwood Canyon. Looking down from the Forest Hollow trail, riders can see the sliver of the Colorado River and the steep cliff edges below. The forest here is thick with vegetation, wildflowers, and buttery smooth singletrack. Once on the Scout portion of the trail, the tempo changes to a rip-roaring descent that is fast, steep, and technical. Switchbacks and sandy sections make for some hairy but fun moments. Exposure is common on this section so be careful. Remember to keep speed in check, as this is a popular spot for hiking as well as biking. The trail ends in a quaint neighborhood, close to downtown Glenwood Springs. Cold beers and good places to eat are the just rewards for all the hard work.

Trail Details

• Uses: Mountain biking, hiking
• Length: Entire loop is 17 miles
• Ability Rating: Moderate
• Usage: Moderate
• Dogs permitted, with a leash

Parking

Riders can choose to do the entire loop by taking Red Canyon Road south of town to Spring Valley and connecting to Lookout Mountain Road, or they can drive to the parking area on Lookout Mountain Road and take off on Scout Trail from there. Maps are crucial on this ride, as the trail splits in several places.

MORE MOUNTAIN BIKING TRAILS

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Visit Glenwood Springs

Hanging Lake winter hiking reservations are  available through April 30, 2024. The US Forest Service has scheduled a rebuild of the Hanging Lake Trail that is set to begin this spring and last throughout the summer months. Reservations will be available at the discretion of the US Forest Service, continue to check this page for updates. Visit the Hanging Lake page HERE for more information and the booking portal.