Riding through Glenwood Canyon is a great visual experience (done it hundreds of times when I lived up in that valley.) If it's not available though, you can go from the south side of Gypsum, over Cottonwood Pass road, which spits you out in Carbondale. This route from Gypsum to Carbondale has about 20 miles of remote riding with little to no services but is a low traffic option. This route would be shorter than going through GS if you are heading over McClure, but I like "the Springs".
Vail to Gypsum all bike path/route 6. Usually windy, either in your face or at your back depending on the day and what time of day. Route 6 has a good bit of traffic on it but it is a bike route. If you're in Eagle for lunch, just off of 6 and Broadway is a great sandwich shop (Red Canyon Cafe).
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Ron - Tucson, AZ