Pearl Pass to Schofield Pass Bikepack

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Allowed

Features Commonly Bikepacked · Hike-a-bike · Technical · Views

This loop has it all. Scenery, mountain passes, Jeep roads, iconic roads and signs, tough technical climbs, some hike-a-bike and descents, singletrack, dirt and paved roads and trails, waterfalls, hot springs, glamping and camping spots, ghost towns, animals, many water sources and refueling opportunities, and a visit to a few of Colorado's most iconic mountain towns.

After a nice warm-up through Crested Butte onto Brush Creek, battle your way up to 12,700' at Pearl Pass and marvel at the Elk Mountain Range. Maintain vigilance as you bounce down Castle Creek to eventually cruise along the peaceful paved road to Aspen where you can refuel before heading to the long and gentle Rio Grande Trail.

The Rio Grande Trail, a 42 mile path designated for non-motorized use, is cruiser dirt then pavement along the Roaring Fork River where you can stop and soak in many swimming holes as you pass through Basalt and end in Carbondale. This is a good half-way point. Refuel and glamp here or head six miles south on CO-133 to the Carbondale Crystal River KOA.

On CO-133 at mile 6.5 is Penny Hot Springs. Take a dip here before heading to the town of Marble. Ride by the iconic Crystal Mill and onto Schofield Pass Road. On this steep Jeep road you'll see Devil's Punch Bowl, the Crystal River waterfall and pass West Maroon trailhead to eventually get to the most iconic sign for many Crested Butte rides at the top of the 10,000-foot pass.

Cruise on down back to your car and celebrate. Crested Butte has many good food options.

This ride would be fun in either direction, and you can also choose to start and end anywhere in the Roaring Fork Valley. There are also endless opportunities to add Jeep road and singletrack mileage to your ride. Examples include: riding East Brush Creek Trail/Star Pass/Taylor Pass/Richmond Ridge Road from Crested Butte to Aspen, connecting singletrack from Aspen to Carbondale almost entirely, and descending 401 Trail from Schofield Pass to Gothic on your way back down to Crested Butte. Consult the MTB Project mobile app if you choose any of these add-ons.