E-bikes on Rio Grande Trail
Mountains & Western Slope, Colorado · Garfield, Eagle, Pitkin · Managed by Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA); Pitkin County Open Space & Trails (Basalt-Aspen)
🟢 Class 1 & 2 allowed — no Class 3
Last checked:
Which classes: Class 1 and 2 from Glenwood Springs to Emma Road (Basalt); Class 1 only from Emma Road to Aspen; Class 3 not listed
The rules
Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed from Two Rivers Park in Glenwood Springs to Emma Road in Basalt. From Emma Road up to Aspen only Class 1 is allowed. Follow posted speed limits, and note seasonal wildlife closures on some sections.
What the official source says:
Two Rivers Park (Glenwood Springs) to Emma Road (Basalt): Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are permitted
Source: Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA); Pitkin County Open Space & Trails (Basalt-Aspen)
📞 Call ahead: 970-384-4881 (rules and closures change)
34 miles · mostly asphalt, some concrete and compacted gravel
Gear for this ride
- Thule EasyFold XT 2 hitch rackFolding 2-bike hitch rack rated for 65 lb per bike — enough for most e-bikes. Check your bike's weight first.
- Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini U-lockKryptonite's top-rated U-lock, Sold Secure Gold, for trailheads and town stops.
- Topeak Mini Morph pumpFrame-mounted mini pump that fits both Presta and Schrader valves.
- Cygolite Metro Plus 800 headlight800-lumen USB-rechargeable headlight for dusk rides and tunnels.
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Colorado's e-bike classes
Colorado has three e-bike classes: Class 1 (pedal-assist to 20 mph), Class 2 (motor helps with or without pedaling, cuts out at 20 mph) and Class 3 (pedal-assist to 28 mph, with a speedometer). Colorado e-bike laws →
Not sure which class you have? E-bike classes explained →
Did this rule change, or is something here wrong? Tell us and we'll re-check it against the official source.
Nearby trails
- White River National Forest trails (Vail, Aspen, Summit County, Glenwood) 🟡 Motorized routes onlyUSDA Forest Service - White River National Forest
- Colorado Trail 🟡 Motorized routes onlyUSDA Forest Service (multiple national forests) with the Colorado Trail Foundation
- 18 Road Trails / North Fruita Desert (BLM) ❔ Call firstBureau of Land Management - Grand Junction Field Office