Access the trail in Fraser or Winter Park. Parking is available along nearby side streets.
If you can find the 8" blue signs where the trail starts in Winter park, the first 2 miles are blacktop and really pretty traveling through a forested area with views of the creek and occasional benches to rest. The trail then becomes sidewalk through the busy touristy spots with nice food and beverage options, and LOTS of sidewalk traffic. Again, if you can see the tiny 8" blue sign, you can cross hwy 40 and continue on a blacktop trail for the remaining few miles. There is a great park along the way and this could be a nice stroll for a traveling family.
Absolutely beautiful and easy ride. About half asphalt and half dirt.
We dragged around 4 children between 3 and 7 years old. The trail was very easy to walk and had minimal elevation changes. There are plenty of access points to the River to allow the kids to play on the shores.
From the North end of the newly smooth surface trail at N39.92767 W105.78871 elev 8745’, to Mid-town Winter Park N39.91753 W105.78435 elev 8800’, the trail parallels US 40 and provides unobstructed 360 degree views. It joins a Dirt Trail on the opposite side of the river, to complete a round trip. I did not ride the trail that proceeds south from mid Winter Park. By Noel Keller 5 Aug 08
"July 8, 2005: Started at South trailhead (Winter Park ski area, not downtown) and rode to Fraser. From the ski area through downtown Winter Park it was terrific - Tree covered, curvy, steep downhill and reasonably wide. You use the sidewalk through town but they are wide and the tourists and natives are friendly and courteous. From Winter Park to Fraser there is a slight incline and no shade. Trail has many, many ruts that made the ride very uncomfortable with the constant thump, thump, bang, bang. A short portion is under construction but should be completed soon. Loved the Winter Park section."
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