Exploring Glenwood Springs to Basalt, CO
Located on the corridor between Interstate 70 and Aspen, this is the last stop we added when we deviated away from the Gold Mountain fire near Ouray, Colorado. There are several rivers to explore and numerous trails along them. Whether you’re hiking, biking, driving, or just relaxing on the river this area has a lot to offer.
Gateway RV Park
Also known as Town of Carbondale Campground, the Gateway RV Park sits on a slice of land between Highway 82 and the Roaring Fork River adjacent to the Rio Grande Multi-use trail.
As we approach the RV park, I spot a large nest across the river and after we finish setting up, I decide to take a walk down the road to stretch my legs and get a better look at it. Along the way, I get a good view of the sun shining on Mount Sopris, highlighting the white top.
The nest turns out to be an Osprey with a few chicks in it and the other parent is keeping watch close by.
In the evening we take a short walk down the river and this becomes an almost nightly ritual providing multiple pictures over the 6 nights we’re here.
Rio Grande Trail bridge & Mount Sopris in the background
Lorax Trail Short Loop
After a good night’s sleep, we head southwest into the hills to do the Lorax Trail short loop. The trail has constant elevation changes and travels through both Ponderosa pine and Aspen groves. In short, it’s a beautiful hike providing great exercise.
Trail views
Overlook
At the top of the trail, we find a space where the trees thin out giving a fantastic view of the valley below.
Atkinson Canal Trail
Today’s forecast is full of rain and we only have a small window this morning to get outside. So, we head to the Atkinson Canal Trail which is one of the paved riverside pathways in the area. This one runs along the Roaring Fork River and was once part of an irrigation ditch built in 1884.
As we begin the trail, we quickly come upon fresh bear scat and proceed cautiously. Fortunately, we don’t run across any bears but unfortunately, we don’t really see any wildlife at all. Other than the red canyon walls, we saw some fisherman, a few common birds, and a squirrel.
The rest of the day is spent relaxing in the camper with the hope that today’s storms will make tomorrow beautiful.
Glenwood Canyon Scenic Float Trip with Defiance Rafting
Our hope has been realized! The weather is gorgeous today for our planned float trip down the Colorado River. And checking in with the tour operator, we realize we’re the only ones signed up for the scenic float. Lucky us, we get a private tour.
Photos of us on the river
The tour operator has a photographer on the bike path along the river and as we pass by, they get several shots of us in different sections of the canyon.
Views from the River
We also have many opportunities to take photos during our 2 1/2-hour tour. At one point we even get out to experience some hot springs along the side of the river.
What a wonderful experience! The tour ran flawlessly and our tour guide Lily was fantastic.
Downtown Glenwood Springs
After our float, we head into Glenwood Springs for lunch and a walk around downtown.
Rio Grande Trail – Carbondale to Basalt
Today’s weather appears to be a repeat of yesterday, so we decide to explore the Rio Grande Trail from the campground to the town of Basalt.
Unexpected Trail Maintenance
After passing through the town of Carbondale, we come across a very unusual sign which very shortly becomes clear…
Goats are being used to clear the vegetation from the roadside along the trail. They’re trucked in, and temporary solar powered electric fences are set up to keep them safe and focused on each section.
Trail Views
Basalt, CO
For our lunch break we decide to head into downtown Basalt to see the old buildings and patronize one of the local eateries. We choose the highly rated Two Rivers Cafe and we aren’t disappointed. The food is fantastic, the service is quick, and the price is reasonable. Afterwards we snap a few shots of main street.
On the way home we can’t resist taking a picture of this lush, green field in front of the regions Maroon Formation Sandstone.
What an absolutely incredible trail! So peaceful and it is very easy to get into and around Basalt via well posted side trails.
Fryingpan Valley & Ruedi Reservoir Scenic Drive
On our last day in the area, we choose to go for a scenic drive. The trail starts just past Basalt and goes 45 miles east all the way to Hagerman Pass. Along the way, there are highlighted points of interest that are outlined in a brochure we picked up at the campground. We stop at almost all of them along with a few additional pullouts.
Ivanhoe Lake
Once we reach the Hagerman Pass Trailhead, we decided not to try going up the road. The map shows a gate may be blocking the road and it’s a 4×4 trail that would have required airing down the tires. Given how late in the day it is, we decide to go to Ivanhoe Lake instead before turning around and heading home.
I’m really glad we were able to spend time here even though we have to backtrack a little to resume our original schedule. It would have been shame if we’d only driven through this area vs having the time to explore.
Next stop… State Parks of Rifle Colorado & Beyond
