Basics
- Location:
- Aspen
- Length:
- 20+ miles
- Aerobic Difficulty:
- Moderate
- Time To Allow:
- 4 - 5 hours
- Elevation Change:
- 3900 feet
- Season:
- July-September
Description
The Sunnyside Trail is a key part of the Hunter Valley trail complex just outside Aspen. Hunter Valley features scenic riding on both fire road and singletrack through the famous aspen forests of the area.
To access Sunnyside, a long and strenuous climb is required up the Smuggler Mountain Road. Once at the top, riders can choose from a variety of downhill options, including Sunnyside Trail, which spur from and rejoin with Sunnyside during the descent.
The Hunter Valley trails traverse Red Mountain and offer great views of the surrounding peaks including Pyramid Mountain and the Maroon Bells. In addition, riders on Sunnyside will pass several decrepit mining houses and an old ghost town area along the way.
Details
Location:
Length:
Several options for downhill of differing lengths.
Difficulty:
Aerobic Difficulty:
Time To Allow:
Can choose from several downhill sections. Some are shorter.
Trailhead Elevation:
Elevation Change:
Season:
Additional Details:
The Sunnyside Trail-Hunter Valley trail complex is multi-use so riders may encounter hikers, trail runners and other users and should follow right of way protocol when meeting other groups. Due to the complexity and variety of trails in the area, bringing a trail map is suggested. The Sunnyside Trail is high elevation and can experience sudden weather shifts, so riders should bring appropriate warm layers in anticipation of this. In addition, riders should be prepared with a stocked repair kit and first aid kit.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From Aspen take Highway 82 to Cemetery Lane. Turn north on Cemetery Lane and cross the Roaring Fork River. Park on the left. Get on the paved pathway, the Rio Grande Trail, heading east and peddle to the foot of Smuggler Mountain. Look for trailhead. At the end of the trail, return to parking via the Rio Grande Trail.
