We are so excited to have you on Colorado’s Ride. This ride is designed to be more relaxing, more engaging with the community, and offers more time to fall in love with some of the most beautiful parts of Colorado!
We know this is your vacation and we appreciate your trust in us to provide you with an unforgettable, safe, and fun experience.
This booklet will hopefully answer many of your questions on how our day-to-day logistics will work and of details of the tour
Never hesitate to contact us with questions, concerns, or anything else.
Grab some of our exclusive gear at check in. Sales are first-come, first-serve with limited availability! Preview below
High-quality Helix Primal jerseys in men and womens’ sizes and cuts. $79.00 We also have some super soft high quality Primal hoodies. $55.00 .
In this video, Andrew Phillips of The Cyclist Lawyer (a sponsor) did the tour last year and interviewed Bill Plock, the ride director, to discuss what has changed for 2024 about his experience last year.
These mountains will be on your right heading towards Silverton
Colorado’s Ride Overview …………………………………….……6
Mandatory/Critical Information.……………………………………..7
Check in/Rider Mandatory Meeting ………………………………10
Route Overview …………………………………………………….11
Logistics Overview and daily procedures………………………..13
Riding Rules ……………………………………………………..…15
Route Support………………………………………………………16
Massage-Recovery Information……………………………… 17-18
Entertainment Non Ride Activities…………………..………..17-20
Camping Amenities………………………………………….……..21
Long-term Parking, RV’s Durango.……………………………….22
Pagosa Springs Map, Camping, RV………………………..……23
Durango Area Map……………………………………………..….24
Pagosa Area Map………………………………………………….25
Mechanical Support………………………………………………. 27
Day-to-day Route Info. Aid stations, Cut-off times, Support…..28
Day 1, Durango to Silverton Description…………………………29
Silverton Finish Map………………………………………………..30
Day 1 Route Map……………………………………………………31
Day 2, Durango Loop Description……………………………..….32
Day 2 Route Map……………………………………………………33
Day 3 Durango to Pagosa Springs Description………………….34
Day 3 Route Map……………………………………………………35
Day 4 Pagosa–Wolf Creek Pass Description………………….…36
Day 4 Route Map……………………………………………………37
Day 5 Pagosa to Durango Description……………………………39
Day 5 Route Map……………………………………………………40 What to Bring………………………………………………………..42
Altitude Awareness…………………………………………….,,43-45
Hydration by Tailwind…………………………………………….…46
Electrolytes by Boulder Salt……………………………………..…47
Public Transportation…………………………………………….…49
Sponsors………………………………………………………….50-51
Molas lake at summit of Molas Pass
Colorado Ride Overview
Colorado’s Ride showcases one of the most scenic areas of Colorado through the lens of two amazing overnight towns, Durango and Pagosa Springs. Add in visits to Silverton, the beautiful country in La Plata, Archuleta and Mineral counties, and amazing views from Wolf Creek Pass you will experience some of the best of the San Juan region.
By minimizing transfers and maximizing community engagement with local attractions, residents, and businesses, you will have more time to relax and spend less time packing, unpacking, and hurrying to the next ride.
You will enjoy five days of weekday cycling that hopefully offers quieter roads and provides a safer experience. You may want non-cycling friends and family to join you on the weekend before or after and extend your visit. We will lower the impact on the local community and utilize facilities and hotels at less demanding times. Riders will have three nights in Durango and two in Pagosa Springs.
Campers at the Durango Fairgrounds will have access to the Durango Recreation Center. In Pagosa Springs campers will stay on the Hot Springs property and have 24-hour access to the hot springs with full shower facilities and other spa amenities.
Massages will be available every day (for an extra fee) as well as other recovery options such as IV treatments, leg compression and trigger point guns.
The daily rides are designed to be challenging and fun, but not consume an entire day.
Having a small impact on the environment is very important to us. Maintaining a low carbon footprint and creating an atmosphere to minimally impact town activities and the normal lives of residents and other tourists.
All cyclists will access the train back to Durango. Day bag services will be available to riders for a change of clothes. Bikes will be transported back to Durango via Summit Cycle Solutions.
Click on the map for a link to a video learn many details about the ride.
Mandatory/Critical Info
Riding Rules:
• Rules of the Road apply 100% of the time unless directed by a law enforcement officer or staff marshall to proceed differently.
• Day 1: On Highway 550 north of the Purgatory aid station, riders must ride single file unless safely passing a cyclist per Colorado State Police permit. Failure to do so may result in pulling you off the route.
• Also, we will have mandatory pull-off spots if traffic becomes congested. These are found on the Ride With GPS file.
• We will enforce cut-off times on routes. See the daily schedule for those times, they correspond with aid station closing times.
• Our permits require a mass start, times are listed in daily schedules.
Bike Lights:
At a minimum rear flashing lights are required. Colorado’s Ride has a limited supply of rear flashing lights at no charge, thanks to the Pro’s Closet. But if you have one please bring it.
Identification:
Each rider will be given a custom “license plate” to put on their bike and it must be visible for the entire ride
Rider Check-In Sunday August 19th
Address to check-in:
La Plata County Fairgrounds
2500 Main Ave Durango, CO 81301
SKA beer and non-alcoholic drinks will be served. Food trucks will be on-site (bbq and one other)
You get everything on this five-day tour. Three big alpine passes, high desert, rolling hills, and big views of the San Juan Mountains. The roads are open to traffic and this is a Rules of the Road tour. Be prepared with clothing for all types of weather.
Total Mileage: 309.1 or 368.3 miles. Elevation Gain: 22,966 or 25,931 feet
Day 1- 50.7 miles, 6,124 elevation gain or the option of returning from Molas Pass for a total of 90 miles and 7,743 gain. We start at the La Plata Fairgrounds and take beautiful county roads to Hwy 550 15 miles north of Durango. Then its North to Silverton after climbing Coal Bank and Molas passes. The climb to Purgatory is more substantial than you might think so plan accordingly! Once in Silverton, explore this historic town and grab lunch before the train ride home. We will take your bikes back to Durango. Trains depart at 2:00 and 2:45 pm.
Day 2 - 44.8 miles, 2,724 elevation, or 64.7 and 4,070 of gain option. Durango’s favorite loop features scenic views riding south and west with a gorgeous descent through Wildcat Canyon into Durango and on the optional loop to Hesperus Pass. You will have plenty of time to hang out before our party at SKA Brewing at 4 pm.
Day 3 - 87.1 miles, 5,267 elevation gain. Ride to Pagosa Springs passing through Bayfield with a “brunch stop” at the town of Ignacio. The Ute Reservation surrounds Ignacio. Food will be available for purchase and all proceeds go to the ELHI center, home to many small local non-profits. You will ride towards Navajo Reservoir and then north with majestic views of the revered Chimney Rock before riding east into Pagosa Springs.
Day 4 - 46.9 miles, 4,421 elevation gain. This fairly short route but packs a punch as we ride up legendary Wolf Creek Pass and back. The views of the San Juan River Valley as you descend are some of the best in America. Take your time, enjoy the view and you will return to town with time to relax, shop, and enjoy some fine dining.
Day 5 - 79.6 miles, 4,430 elevation gain. Start with one underrated climb out of Pagosa Springs (so don’t over-dress) . We then return to Ignacio (another fund raising lunch stop) and then past the airport and back to Durango and the Fairgrounds.
Logistics, Daily Procedure Overview
Communications:
Daily updates will be sent via text the night before. In case of emergency due to weather or other reasons, instructions will be sent. In the areas where cell phones don’t work, people on the course will be giving you instructions. Use your best judgment with weather to shelter in place if you don’t feel safe.
Daily Start: We will have a mass start, arrive early, get settled, and ready to ride by the start time listed below. This is important for our permits. We ask that you selfseed in the start line in a “fast, medium, slow” order that will make it safer for traffic control. You will be escorted by a lead car that is not passable. All rides leave at 7am, EXCEPT day 5 we leave at 6:30am
Durango Fairgrounds, 7:00 am Pagosa Hot Springs. 7:00 am Thur Aug 22nd, 6:30 am Fri. Aug 23
Daily Parking:
Riders not camping are encouraged to ride to the start venue and NOT park there unless absolutely necessary.
Luggage:
Campers, a designated luggage drop will be at each site and bags need to arrive at least 15 minutes before the ride start
Hotel Guest, luggage will be picked up from your hotel as long as you purchased luggage services.
Day Bag (Day 1 only) We will take a duffle or small backpack for you to Silverton and a changing area will be provided. There are no showers in Silverton but there is a nice new bathroom facility to clean up, include a towel.
Cut-off times:
Each day will include cut-off times which are the closing times for aid stations listed on the daily schedule starting on page 30. Riders on course not making the time will be advanced to the next aid station or end depending on circumstances
Aid Stations/food:
Will include a variety of snacks, hydration (water and electrolyte drink) fruit, sunscreen, and bathroom/portos.
Day 3 and Day 5 in Ignacio at aid station 2, there will be cooked food available for purchase from local vendors benefitting local charities
Oh the San Juan’s!!
Riding Rules
Though we go to great lengths to make the tour as safe as possible, you are only as safe as you ride. Always remember that your safety is paramount. Please follow these rules of the road:
• Always ride as far to the right as possible
• Only ride two abreast when the shoulder is wide enough
• Obey all traffic laws, signs, and signals. Failure to do so may result in traffic violation tickets
• All participants MUST wear a helmet
• Bicycle trailers and child seats are not permitted
• All bikes must have rear flashing safety lights
• Do not wear headphones while riding
• If you are inexperienced with drafting, do not ride in pacelines
• Use hand signals to indicate left or right turns, slowing or stopping, or road hazards.
• Never assume motorists see you. Be cautious even if you have the right-of-way
• Move completely off the road and shoulder when stopped
• Only pass cyclists on their left. When passing, warn cyclists by saying, “On your left”
• Cross railroad tracks at a right angle
• Never cross the road’s centerline
• Control your speed
Rider Support
SAGS
We will have SAG vehicles capable of taking you and your bike in case of emergency. Please only use this service if absolutely necessary. If you are not meeting cut-off times a SAG vehicle will advise and move to a safe place to pick you up.
Emergencies/medical
You will be supported with 3 paramedics on motorcycles roving the course and one at the start/ finish. Centura Medical will have an ambulance on course with an additional paramedic and an EMT. There will be another paramedic on a bike and an EMT riding along to aid if needed. If you need assistance stop and alert any staff or medical support person.
Mechanical Support
Our team of cycling paramedics and SAG drivers can help with minor mechanical issues such as flats, chain drops, and other minor adjustments. They will have limited spare tubes and cartridges and pump. Be prepared with your own rescue equipment and practice fixing flats. Anything major will require us to take your bike back to either Durango or Pagosa Springs where our partner shops can fix (hopefully) the problem.
Aid Stations
Approximately every 15 to 20 miles we will have aid stations with plenty of snacks and liquids, Portos, a pump, sunscreen, shade and friendly people.
Daily Massage
Rates: $55.00 per 1/2 hr OR $110.00 per 1 hr. Location: by the camping venue, or inside the fairgrounds.
Sheri Bullock has been doing massage for bike tours for many many years and will be on Colorado’s Ride. Be sure to book your appointments on Sunday at the preride meeting!
Performance Recovery will be at the end of each ride to help you to recover quickly and to be more ready for the next day. They offer three different services.
1. Percussion guns that are free for your use. Percussion is great for those cramping muscles. It helps to loosen the tight muscles and remove the cramping.
2. Compression therapy with the Normotec compression legs. Compression helps to compress the muscles pushing lactic acid out and helps with massaging the legs as well. It is that good hurt that you need after that long ride. $20 for 15 minutes.
3. IV hydration with some medications. IV hydration is a quick and easy way to get rehydrated after your big day.
The medications are Toradol, B12 and Zofran. Toradol is an anti-inflammatory medication that will relieve those aches and pains while taking away any inflammation that you may have. When given WITH hydration it is very safe. Vitamin b12 is a medication given to make you feel good and give you more energy. It helps you to feel energized for the next day or week following your event. Finally Zofran is for nausea. Nothing is worse than needing hydration or food and being nauseated and not being able to tolerate it. We can relieve that nausea quickly. It also helps with altitude sickness.
. Packages are available for the participants as all services are safe to do daily.
One treatment which includes IV hydration with meds and compression is $150 dollars. Two treatments within the five days is $ 275.
Three treatments within the five days is $400 You can purchase the different services individually as well.
Visit the website at mypreformancerecovery.com for more info and pre-book services.
Entertainment, Non-ride activities
Day 1: After your epic ride, enjoy lunch in Silverton. The trains depart at 2:00 pm and 2:45 pm.
We anticipate this to be a long day between the ride and the train trip back so please enjoy Durango’s restaurants after the ride and we will see you on Tuesday morning. The train does offer a fully stocked bar and snacks!
Day 2 With fewer miles you will have the entire afternoon to explore. Maybe hang out on the San Juan River, hire a fishing guide, or raft. Shop in Durango or check out the Durango Hot Springs. That afternoon we have a party for you at the famous Ska Brewery. Come get a free beer and meet some of our charity partners, listen to a local band, and stay for some fabulous food at Ska or check out other places. The party is from 4 pm to 6 pm— or later!
Ska Brewing; 225 Girard St, Durango, CO 81303.
Durango Hot Springs, 35 pools!
Entertainment, Non-ride activities
Day 3: TBD
Day 4 With fewer miles you will have most afternoon to explore. Maybe hang out on the San Juan River, hire a fishing guide, or raft.
Pagosa Hot Springs
Camping Amenities
La Plata Fairgrounds (Durango). Pagosa Hot Springs. Camping Durango will be indoors at the Exhibition Hall.
Amenities: You must have paid for camping to get these amenities.
Durango Rec Center: You will have full access to the Rec Center and they open 5:45 each morning. You will be given Summit Cycle Solutions wristband. When you enter tell them you are with CR. If you plan to use the rec center more than once a day, please get a Rec Center wristband so they don’t charge us for multiple visits.
Pagosa Hot Springs: if you are camping or staying at the Hot Springs you will be given a key card to access the hot springs 24/7 complete with bathrooms and showers. Camping will be across the street from the resort in Mary Fisher Park.
Support in camp
Porto’s will be available 24/7
Water—water stations will be set up
Electrical—there will be access in each location to charging phones etc. It is highly advised to bring a multi-charge block to charge with as there will be limited outlets
Bike security
Durango—Inside the field house, the same place as the packet pick up and indoor camping. Pagosa Hot Springs, Conference room next to the check-in at the hotel
Food
Durango—Coffee and food will be available for purchase in the Exhibit Hall. Pagosa— Hot Springs cafe will be open early for the ride
Longterm Parking and RV’s in Durango
With the purchase of a parking pass, riders can leave a vehicle at the Fairgrounds in Durango for pick up on Friday when we return. RV’s can park in the RV designated area with the purchase of a camping pass directly in front of the Exhibit Hall. RV’s will need to moved to long term parking if they are not going to Pagosa Springs
La Plata Fairgrounds, Durango
The Rec Center where you will shower is opposite the baseball fields from indoor camping and parking
Pagosa Springs Venue
This QR code shows all camping venues in both Durango and Pagosa Springs
Scan this for interactive map
Mechanical Support
We expect every rider to be able to fix their own flats and carry the necessary equipment.
At times, people need support, so besides being paramedics, this Moto-support personnel can assist on route with minor mechanical needs such as flats.
We will have mechanics on hand with supplies each morning at the start.
If you have an e-bike or electronic shifting, please ensure everything is charged, or you have installed new batteries. We will have some C2032 batteries on hand, but that doesn’t always fit all bikes.
We will have SAG support with minor mechanical abilities to move you and your bike forward (or back) to be worked on by our support shops for more serious mechanical needs.
Durango—Second Ave Sports 640 E. 2nd Ave Durango, CO 81301 970-247-4511
Pagosa Mountain Sports
Downtown Physical Address: 162 Pagosa Street 970-507-7886
Day to Day on the Route, Aid Stations, SAGS, Cut off times, Day bags
Start:
Each day will have a designated start time and location. Look for flags for start line.
Durango: La Plata County Fairground
Pagosa Springs: Hot Springs
Aid Stations
We will offer a variety of sweet and salty snacks. Tailwind Electrolyte , Pickle juice, bars, gels, gluten-free options, water, fruit (bananas, apples, oranges)
Porto’s: Each aid station will have porto’s or access to facilities
Medical Support
Common Spirit Ambulance, and Rapid Response moto paramedics will be on course
Mechanics:
We will have light-duty mechanical support on course and any non-repairable bikes will be transferred back to host town where full mechanical support is available.
SAG’s
We will offer SAG vehicles. Please wave one down if you need assistance. Be aware, depending on road conditions and traffic, vehicle may need to move ahead for safe assistance
Cut–off times?
Each aid station will be assigned a closing time. Riders behind schedule will be moved forward to next aid station or end to keep course manageable
Weather
In the event of severe weather, riders will be asked to shelter in place, SAG vehicles will do their best to reach riders who may want warming blankets or other assistance,. We will not have enough vehicles to move everyone at once
Day 1, Durango To Silverton and Return Ride
Ride one of Colorado’s most iconic routes with amazing views of the San Juans on the historic route connecting two of Colorado’s most historical towns.
Route Opens: 7:00 am (Mass Start @ Durango Fairgrounds) Day bag drop at 6:45 near start line.
Aid 1 Open: 8:00am - 10:00am (mile 17.5)
Aid 2 Open: 9:30am - 12:00pm (mile 29.5)
Aid 3 Open: 10:30am - 1:30pm (mile 36.8)
Aid 4 open: 12:30pm - 2:30pm. (Mile 53.2)
Aid 5 open: 1:30pm. - 3:00pm (mile 61.2)
Aid 6 open: 2:00pm - 4:00pm (Mile 72.5)
Riders not at aid station by closing time will be moved ahead via SAG vehicles
Riders riding back to Durango are NOT allowed past Molas Pass and must start their ride back from there no later than 2:00pm
With Train Route Closure: 2:00 pm
Finish area, at the train station in Silverton, changing tents available. Please load bike onto trucks or bike racks with Summit Cycle Solutions.
Molas Pass Return Closure: 4:00 pm
Ride With GPS File riding train: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41559955
Ride with GPS File Molas Pass Return: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/ 45064197
Train Station is located on East 12th street.
Early Train Departure: 2:00pm (Silverton Train Station)
Late Train Departure: 2:45pm (Silverton Train Station)
Bike Corral Pick Up: 5:00pm - 6:30pm (Durango Train Station)
Downtown Silverton Finish
Day 2, Durango Loop
This is one of the local’s go-to loops with great views, some miles near the San Juan river and a gorgeous climb to Nighthorse Reservoir and decent through beautiful Wildcat Canyon and back to Durango.
Aid 3 Open: 10:00am - 12:30 pm (mile 52) Hesperus Store
Route Closure: 1:00 pm
Ride with GPS file: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41559946 short loop https://ridewithgps.com/routes/45152045 long loop
Entertainment: 4:00 pm SKA Brewery, Ska Brewing; 225 Girard St, Durango, CO 81303.
Join us at SKA Brewery for a beer and music by a local favorite
Day 3, Durango To Pagosa Springs
On our longest route of the week, 87 miles, you will most likely feel a much different vibe as we travel through the Southern Ute nation and the town of Ignacio. We will pass Chimney Rock National Monument before heading east into Pagosa Springs.
Aid 1 Open: 8:00am - 9:30am (mile 14.2) Famous Helens Store
Aid 2 Open: 9:00 am - 11:00 am (special food for purchase from town of Ignacio) (mile 34.6)
Aid 3 Open: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm (mile 56.5)
Aid 4 Open: 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm (mile 70.4)
Route Closure: 3:00 pm
Ride with GPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42447871
Entertainment: on your own, consider a massage, hang at the hot springs, relax!
Day 4, Pagosa Springs, Wolf Creek Pass
Wolf Creek Pass, especially on the west side, is a perfect pass to climb. It has a wide shoulder, great pavement, and a descent back to Pagosa Springs with stunning views of the San Juan River valley.
Camping Elevated Open: 6:00am - 8:00am
Route Opens: 7:00 (Mass Start @ The Springs Resort)
Aid 1 Open: 8:00 am - 9:30 am (mile 16.4)
Aid 2 Open: 9:00 am - 12:00 am (mile 23.5, summit)
Aid 3 Open: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm (mile 32)
Route Closure: 1:30 pm
Ride with GPS : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41559965
Pagosa Hot Springs
Day 5, Pagosa Springs to Durango
Start with an underrated climb out of Pagosa Springs (so don’t overdress) . We then return to Ignacio (another fund raising lunch stop) and then past the airport and back to Durango and the Fairgrounds.
Route Opens: 7:00 am (Mass Start @ The Springs Resort)
Aid 1 Open: 8:00 am - 9:30 am (mile 16.8)
Aid 2 Open: 9:00 am - 10:30am (mile 31.3)
Aid 3 Open: 10:30 am - 1:00 pm (mile 51.6)
Aid 4 Open: 12:00pm—2:30 pm (mile 67.8)
Route Closure: 3:00 pm
Ride with GPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41532337
It’s not often we’re told to eat extra carbohydrates. But when you’re at a higher altitude, you need more calories. So pack plenty of healthy snacks, including lots of whole grains.
Avoid alcohol
Alcohol, cigarettes, and medications like sleeping pills can make altitude sickness symptoms worse. Avoid drinking, smoking, or taking sleeping pills during your trip to higher altitude. If you want to have a drink, wait at least 48 hours to give your body time to adjust before adding alcohol into the mix.
Drink water
Staying hydrated is also important in preventing altitude sickness. Drink water regularly during your climb.
Take it easy
Climb at a pace that’s comfortable for you. Don’t try to go too fast or engage in exercise that’s too strenuous.
Medication
Usually, medication isn’t given ahead of time unless flying or driving to high altitude is unavoidable. There’s some evidence that taking acetazolamide (the former brand name of Diamox) two days before a trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Acetazolamide is a medication typically used to treat glaucoma. But because of the way it works, it can also help prevent altitude sickness. You’ll need a prescription from your doctor to get it.
It’s also important to know that you can still get altitude sickness even when taking acetazolamide. Once you start having symptoms, the medication won’t reduce them. Getting yourself to a lower altitude again is the only effective treatment.
Nutrition and Hydration
Proper nutrition, like hydration, is essential to keeping your body performing at its best during your training and in Colorado’s Ride. Try to dial in proper nutrition habits before the Tour to find what works best for you and your body.
We will be offering Tailwind Electrolyte drink at our aid stations. This Durango company is one of the leaders in the industry and is the standard drink at some of America’s toughest endurance events. Here is a link to learn more:
Also, remember that proper cycling nutrition involves both daily nutrition and training/ cycling nutrition. Daily nutrition requires a healthy balance of macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat). This is the foundation of improving overall health and performance on a day-to-day basis.
Training and cycling nutrition is essential to keeping your body fueled properly while you are riding. The long and strenuous days can deplete your nutrient stores rapidly. We recommend eating every 30-40 minutes while you are riding, and then consuming a recovery meal within an hour of getting off your bike each day. This is a great way to contribute to effective recovery and get you ready for the next day.
Public Transportation
Durango
Durango has a transit station and a good network of shuttles. Here is a link to that website for times and routes:
https://www.durangogov.org/333/Transit
Animas Transportation has a fleet of vehicles for up to 15 passengers that can be hired to take you anywhere in the region should you wish to explore sites such as the Durango Hot Springs or further.
https://animastransportation.com
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs offers public transportation and for-hire service through Mountain Express Transit.
https://www.archuletacounty.org/641/Bus-Schedule
Our Sponsors and Supporters
Thank you to El Tour de Tucson for helping market Colorado’s Ride, Check out their ride at https://eltourdetucson.org
If you are staying around Durango after the ride, check out one of the country’s best Beer Festivals! Learn more here: San Juan Brewfest
