Colorado Classic Self-Guided Cycling Tour

You’ll be greeted by incomparable alpine views and broad valleys on the Colorado Classic Self-guided Cycling Tour. This high country tour routes you to the mountain resorts of Breckenridge, Vail, Glenwood Springs, and Snowmass/Aspen. Pedal on tranquil roads. Breathe the cool, mountain air. See the wonder of the Glenwood Canyon, carved by the powerful Colorado River over 3 million years ago.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive in Breckenridge

Nestled high in the Rocky Mountains is Breckenridge, home to world-class fun and rich, colorful history. Tonight, meet your local representative at 6pm for your private welcome orientation, bike fitting, and route overview.
Lodging: Beaver Run Resort

Day 2 – Summit Loop – 18mi – 41mi (29km – 66km)

Numerous cycling options kick-start your Colorado Class Self-guided Cycling tour. Cruise around the pristine shorelines of Lake Dillon, surrounded by the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. Or, cycle from Breckenridge to Keystone over Swan Mountain Road. Paved bike paths and spectacular scenery make this a cyclist’s dream. Your local representative will review each cycling option during your welcome orientation.
Breakfast included|Lodging: Beaver Run Resort

Days 3 – Breckenridge to Vail – 38mi (61km)

Prepare for an outstanding ride experience as you cycle along the only Colorado mountain pass with a paved bike path the entire distance. This spectacular ride will take you along the path from Breckenridge to Frisco and through Ten Mile Canyon, through wooded areas and past beaver ponds to the ski resort of Copper Mountain. From Copper Mountain, you’ll gently climb your way through high alpine valleys and tundra to the top of Vail Pass. Make sure your camera is handy, as you will want to photograph outstanding views from the summit. It’s an exhilarating downhill ride from the top of the pass to your hotel in Vail.
Breakfast included|Elevation:+1954’/-3465’|Maximum Grade: 6.5%|Average Grade: -0.4%|Lodging: Tivoli Lodge

Day 4 – Vail to Glenwood Springs – 63 mi (101km)

You’ll want to get an early start today as there is a full day of cycling ahead. There’s plenty to see along the way as you pedal past the ski resorts of Avon and Beaver Creek. Follow the Colorado River and enjoy stunning views of Glenwood Canyon as you coast along this popular recreation trail. Keep an eye out for whitewater rafters & wildlife! To shorten this ride, we can provide a transfer from Vail to Glenwood Canyon, providing you with the option to ride the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Tail. Stop for a hike at Hanging Lake, a crystal-clear, turquoise blue lake that is a short, steep, but rewarding hike and accessible from the Glenwood Canyon bike path. Hanging Lake was just added to the roster of National Natural Landmarks.
Breakfast included|Elevation:+110’/-3519’|Maximum Grade: 6.2%|Average Grade: -0.5%|Lodging: Hotel Colorado

Day 5 – Glenwood Springs to Snowmass – 43 mi (69 km)

Your ride today will take you along the Rio Grand Trail, a rails to trails project that follows the abandoned railroad bed of the narrow gauge Rio Grand Railroad. Ride through several excellent wildlife viewing areas as you cycle along the Roaring Fork River. Pass over the Satank Bridge, the longest and oldest span timber truss bridge in the state. Enjoy views of the Elk Scenic Corridor and Mount Sopris while pedaling this picturesque trail. There will be plenty of spots to rest and beautiful viewpoints along the way.
Breakfast included|Elevation:+3053’/-302’|Maximum Grade: 9.6%|Average Grade: -1.8%|Lodging: Stonebridge Inn (upgrades available)

Day 6 – Snowmass/Aspen local rides- 24mi – 40mi (39km – 64km)

A spectacular array of wilderness rides await you today. There’s something for every ability. Cruise into Aspen, a hotbed of trendy boutiques, art galleries and sumptuous culinary options. Cycle past scenic groves of aspen & spruce to the ghost town of Ashcroft, where prospectors came in search of silver. Pedal past pristine forests, lush meadows and glacial valleys as you discover the majesty of the picturesque Maroon Bells, two 14,000′ peaks capped with snow year-round. Or take on the legendary and challenging Independence Pass (for experts only!) Your local representative will discuss each option with you during your welcome orientation.
Breakfast included|Lodging: Stonebridge Inn (upgrades available)

Day 7 – Depart Snowmass

Following breakfast, take one more spin before you say goodbye to your Colorado Classic Self-guided Cycling Tour.
Breakfast included|Lodging: N/A

If you decide to come early or stay late at any of these locations, here are several sites that can give you a starting point for your extended visit: Summit County, Vail, Glenwood Springs (don’t forget the hotspings), Snowmass, and Aspen.