Trail Overview
The Extended Aspen Loop combines the Aspen Loop with the 17.5 River Run, creating a longer route that eventually brings you back to the Wapiti Dunes Trailhead. Overall, the trail is on the easier side and should be manageable for most riders, but several short technical, muddy, and wet sections briefly increase the difficulty. Less experienced riders, particularly on dirt bikes or heavier ADV bikes, may need some assistance from a more experienced rider to get through a few of these obstacles. The trail surface is primarily sand, with sections of gravel and mud mixed throughout. There are also several swampy areas with log bridges used to cross the wetter sections. These can be challenging on a motorcycle, especially when wet, but are manageable if approached carefully. Once the route reaches the river, riders should expect at least one water crossing, depending on the time of year and current water levels. In late August 2026, the main crossing was a little over 3 feet deep, so conditions should be assessed carefully before attempting it. Water depth and current can change significantly throughout the season. Plan for roughly 2–3 hours to complete the loop, with the longer end being more realistic if stopping for breaks or helping riders through the more technical sections. The final approximately 5 km follows logging roads back to the Wapiti Dunes Trailhead. This loop is only a small portion of the larger Wapiti riding area. The surrounding trail system is massive, with hundreds of kilometers of connecting trails and alternate routes accessible from this loop, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the area.
