Eagle Valley Trail–Avon, Colorado Vacation

The Eagle Valley Trail is a paved bike trail that connects Avon to Edwards and well, probably more. The weather was not cooperating with us, and I remembered seeing the Eagle River from US 6 on the way down to Edwards and thought it would be a great way to get some fall color in. Being unfamiliar with the area we kind of went back and forth looking for access to the trail. I finally found Nottingham Park and after checking out the reservoir we found access to the trail system.

Quick Details:

Length: At least 4 miles, but we did about 1.
Difficulty: It is a paved bike path super easy. I say DR3.
Elevation Gain: Negligible.
Restroom: I did not find one nearby.
Dogs? Yes. There are a few waste pick up stations along the way.

To get here take exit 167 from i70 in Avon. Go through 1 roundabout, take a right at the second roundabout. Take a left at Lake St. and find a parking spot near Nottingham Park. Walk south past the police station and across the train tracks. There is a trail down the hill towards the bike path. I am sure there is a better way, but we couldn’t find it. The main trail heads didn’t appear to have parking lots. This was the only public parking area we found.

Crossing the railroad tracks, and looking towards Beaver Creek.

,

The trail proper.

Eagle River. I found a little trail that went down to the it.

Looking downstream.

A little further down the trail.

There is still some color, just not a lot.

Pretty flowers.

More of the river.

It would appear there used to be a bridge here.

I found an old water structure. Looks like an old mining dealy. Or it could have been a line to a water wheel. No idea, but neat.

From a bridge.

I took a lot of pictures of the river.

Here is what the trail look like. Paved, easy peasy. Between the paved bike path that is next to a river this really reminds me of the Ogden River Trail a bit closer to home. But this is a little better.

Well we went down about a mile and decided to head on back.

More of the river.

Old building.

Water measuring station. They check the depth and flow here. The river was at about 2 or 3 feet if I remember right, and the ruler goes up to 10.

I really like the river.

Another shot of the path, with some bare aspens.

Looking up towards Beaver Creek.

Train tracks.

Nottingham Park.

Well that was fun. The river is lovely, but it is a bike path. With all the plans we had for this week it was a little bit of a let down. However, I will say considering the weather we got, I am really just happy I got some nature in. It is super easy and pretty but you know you are still in the city. Going with 7 squirrels.

As for difficulty, it is paved and very little ups and downs. Going with a DR3.

Dogs are allowed! Please clean up after your furry friend!