East Rim Trail

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

This trail is used by hikers looping the top of Aspen Mt. from the top of the Gondola and the Sundeck, but it's also a great way to start a descent of the mountain after climbing up Aspen Mt. Summer Road, Midnight Mine Road, or Little Annie Road.

The trail makes its way across the top of Walsh's, and Kristi's ski runs, popping in and out of dark timber forests and grassy high mountain meadows. You'll find brief views of North Star Preserve and neighborhoods near downtown Aspen, nearly 3,000 feet below. Assuming you're using the trail as a descent, big views back towards Independence Pass can be found if you stop for a moment to look over your right shoulder. While often steep, the trail does have plenty of flowy sections where you can open up your speed before the next tight turn.

From the lower (northern) end of this trail, continue down the mountain all the way to town via Scotty's Trail or stay on Aspen Mt. Summer Road for an easier, but still often steep, doubletrack descent.

Signage is not great or just plain non-existent on this trail, refer to this MTB Project map to ensure you don't lose the route at minor intersections or at the one road crossing with Aspen Mt. Summer Road.