Top 10 Destinations You Can Bike, Walk, or Roll to on the Eagle Valley Trail
The Eagle Valley Trail (EVT) is more than a way to get from point A to point B. This paved, non-motorized path stretches the entire length of Eagle County, connecting communities from Dotsero to Vail with a safe, car-free route for cyclists, walkers, runners, and anyone who wants to roll instead of drive. A spur trail also connects Minturn to the main trail.
With just five miles left to complete, the EVT is closing in on a full 63-mile continuous path from Glenwood Canyon to Vail Pass. In the meantime, it already links some of the best parks, playgrounds, markets, and recreation spots in the valley. Here are ten destinations worth the ride, one in each community along the trail.
Sunset views of Duck Ponds Open Space | Photo: Todd Winslow Pierce, www.eaglevalleywild.org
1. Dotsero: Duck Ponds Open Space
Where the EVT begins its journey east, with Glenwood Canyon just to the west, the Duck Ponds Open Space offers a peaceful fishing spot and easy walking paths around the water. It is a low-key destination that is easy to reach by bike and perfect for a picnic or an afternoon cast.
2. Gypsum: Vail/Eagle County Airport
Just outside of downtown Gypsum, the EVT passes right by the Vail/Eagle County Airport, where you can pull over and watch planes take off and land against the backdrop of the surrounding hills. It is a fun, unexpected stop for kids and aviation fans alike.
3. Eagle: Mountain Bike Trails
Eagle has built a reputation as one of Colorado's best mountain biking towns, with a growing network of singletrack that you can get to from the EVT. Whether you are looking for a mellow cruise or a flowy downhill, Eagle's trail system delivers options for every skill level.
4. Edwards: Edwards Field House and Skate Park
The Edwards Field House offers year-round indoor recreation, from climbing walls to an indoor turf field, while the adjacent skate park draws riders of all ages. Together, they make Edwards a great stop for families looking to burn energy in more ways than one.
Summer fun on Nottingham Lake | Photo: Discover Avon
5. Avon: Nottingham Lake
Nottingham Lake sits right in the heart of Avon, with a walking path around the water, paddleboard, kayak, and pedal boat rentals, a great playground, and open space for a picnic. It is one of the most scenic and central stops along the entire trail.
6. EagleVail: EagleVail Pool
On a warm summer day, the EagleVail Pool is a welcome reward at the end of a ride. The community pool is open to the public and offers lap lanes, open swim, and a shaded deck for cooling off before heading back out on the trail.
Saturday Minturn Market | Photo: Town of Minturn
7. Minturn: Saturday Minturn Market
Every Saturday during the summer, the small town of Minturn comes alive with local vendors, food, and live music at the Minturn Market. It is an easy pedal from the trail and one of the best ways to experience Minturn's small-town charm.
On your way to or from Minturn, take a break in Dowd Junction, where Gore Creek meets the Eagle River in a scenic, shaded stretch worth slowing down for.
8. West Vail: Donovan Park
Donovan Park is one of West Vail's most popular gathering spots, with open fields, a pavilion, and easy trail access. It is a great place to stretch out, grab a bite, or let the kids run before continuing toward Vail Village.
9. Lionshead: Gondola Ride to the Top of Vail Mountain
For a change of pace, park your bike (or bring it along) and hop on the gondola at Lionshead for a ride to the top of Vail Mountain. The views from the summit are worth the trip, and you can ride the mountain coasters or soar on the zip lines. Mountain bikers can even take their bikes up for a downhill ride back to the base.
10. Vail: Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Tucked into Ford Park, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is the highest botanical garden in North America, with pathways winding through thousands of alpine plants. It is a peaceful, scenic finish to a day on the trail and a favorite for visitors and locals alike.
Help Us Finish the EVT
From river confluences to parks to mountaintop views, the Eagle Valley Trail connects Eagle County's best destinations. Wherever you start, there is a reason to bike, walk, or roll to the next town over.
Help us close the final five miles. Donate today to bring our 63-mile trail to completion.