The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail
Slow down, enjoy seeing sights you will only see along the bike trail!
The Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail is 16 miles long and follows the Colorado River.
From the bike shop, follow the trail east along the Colorado River. You will ride uphill on your way out into the canyon. Then get the downhill on the return ride!
We also have a shuttle option, we will take you and your bike to the Dotsero (east) end of the Canyon, and you will ride the 16 miles back to town downhill (almost) all the way.
See our Canyon Shuttle for more information about this option.
Trail Highlights
Along the trail you will find 4 rest areas with restrooms, fresh drinking water, telephones and picnic facilities. You will see towering canyon walls, the roaring rapids of the Colorado River, limestone and granite cliffs, natural hot springs, colorful freight and passenger trains, local flora & fauna, quaint riverside picnic areas, and more.
As you ride, you will see people enjoying all types of activities: fishing, dog walking, photography, swimming & tubing, hiking, rafting, and of course biking. There are three beautiful hiking trails: Hanging Lake Trail, Grizzly Creek Trail, and the Jess Weaver Trail. The most popular being the Hanging Lake Trail. Ask at the bike shop for more details about these amazing hikes.
Glenwood Canyon is Colorado nature, at its finest! If you have never done this bicycle ride, you should. These are views that you simply cannot see anywhere else. You will not be disappointed!
Recommended Options
Rent your bike by the hour and leave from the bike shop.
You can go out as far, or as long, as you like. You can even add a short hike along Jess Weaver, Grizzly Creek or Hanging Lake trails. We include free locks, helmets and handlebar packs with every bike rental.
If you have more time, we recommend the Canyon Shuttle.
This is by far our most popular option. Spend the day in the canyon, by taking the shuttle and a picnic and include a hike to Hanging Lake. This option makes the bike ride downhill (almost) all the way, and makes it easier for all members of the family to enjoy.
The shuttle, bike ride and hike option typically takes 4+ hours to complete. You won’t be disappointed!
No matter which option you choose, you will certainly love the views and scenery of the spectacular Glenwood Canyon. Riding a bike through the canyon gives you perspectives that you will not be able to see from the interstate. The relaxing pace of riding a bike is good for the soul! If 16 miles sounds like a long ride, no worries. Anyone taking the shuttle service can call for a pick up from any rest area and be brought back to the office at no charge.