Rocky Mountain Road bike tour
From the rusty brown of the semi-arid lowlands, to the green, gold, and purple of alpine wildflower meadows, our Colorado road bike tour provides you with a great opportunity to find out what “colorful Colorado” is all about.
Teddy Roosevelt’s vision, circa 1905, was to preserve “America’s Alps”, the San Juan Mountain Range within a 1.8-million acre (3000-square mile) National Forest. Our guides live for this: sharing some of the area’s unbelievably scenic routes, the unique terrain features. Big open runs through high meadows that roll like waves, exploding in shoulder-high wildflowers. For point and shoot types, the low-key signage at the trail head, “Watch for Traffic” means sharing space with mule deer, coyotes, fox, Wild Turkey, bobcat, not to mention some 200 type of songbirds and raptors.
Highlights
- Durango
- San Juan Mountain Range
- Telluride, Ouray, Silverton
Details
| Type | Road bike, Hybrid bike, E-bike |
| Duration | 5 days |
| Level | Challenging |
| Support | Guided |
| Group size | min. 6 max. 13 |
| Lodging | Casual Inns |
| Bicycle | Not included |
| Month | June, July, August, September |
| Start | Durango |
| Finish | Durango |
| States or country | Colorado |
| Airport start | Durango International Airport |
| Airport finish | Durango International Airport |
Starting from $ 3,087.00
*Please note the prices are subject to change depending availability *
Itinerary
Elevation Range: 2,000 – 3,000 ft.
Day 1: Durango to Dolores
Meet in Durango, fiercely handsome hamlet of 18,000, defined by 19th century American-Victorian landmark buildings, Aspen forest sloping down to broad, churning trout streams; as well as the onetime haunt of Louis L ‘ Amour. After introductions, then lunch, we commence our ride to Dolores. Midway between Durango and Telluride, Dolores was founded in 1900, serving as a major stop on the Rio Grande Railroad. A half century later, the rail line abandoned Dolores; its commercial-business core faded. Of late though, Delores (pop. 936) has experienced a quiet renaissance owing to outdoor recreation: primarily McPhee Lake (Colorado’s second largest lake), distinguished by 50-miles of pinon-juniper and big sagebrush shaded shoreline.
Total Challenging Mileage | 54 | Feet Gain | 4329
Casual Inn | Sophia Retreat
Day 2: Dolores to Telluride
The next day, our peloton presses toward Telluride. Our route: paralleling the scenic Dolores River. Along the way we’ll step back in time. At Stoner (26-miles from Cortez), we take in a town of two flinty holdouts, nine original storefronts and, this being Colorado, a Pot Party tour bus. Further up the road we visit Rico, a time capsule perfect 19th century silver mining/pioneer settlement at 8125-ft. As the sun climbs, we follow suit: through the nearly one-million-acre Uncompahgre National Forest— which adjoins the 1.8-million-acre San Juan National Forest—to the summit of Lizard Head Pass. Our ride peaks out at a heady 10,222 feet! The last stage of the day puts us in Telluride, a posh ski town at 8750-ft. in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Laying over in Telluride lends terrific options: either a casual exploration of this lively, cosmopolitan village; or, if you’ve still got fuel, seek out any number of spectacular close-in hikes beneath the high, forested peaks.
Total Challenging Mileage | 64 Miles | Feet Gain | 4863
Day 3: Telluride to Ouray
Wake up to magnificent mountain air; then mount up. From Telluride we sweep toward Ouray, atop a truly Tour de France-quality course. En route we meet the raw, strikingly jagged Mt. Sneffels, elev. 14,158 (Colorado’s 25th highest peak). So exalted, so dramatic a visage is Sneffels it seems a doppelganger for the Matterhorn. Shadowing the San Miguel River, our route traverses the American Alps; if not for the signage, all the visual cues and big, vertical imagery suggests Switzerland or Austria. Tucked away beneath the San Juan Mountains—and the eponymous National Forest—Ouray (pop. 1000) is nothing less than a rare gem. Exceptionally handsome, if not.
Total Challenging Mileage | 50 Miles | Feet Gain | 2950
Casual Inn | Hotel Ouray
Day 4: Ourey to Silverton
The next morning, our stage proceeds from Ouray to Silverton. Anticipate a relatively short ride, maintaining an enjoyably laid back pace; perfect to spot big Elk. But don’t get slack. Seriously raised relief defines the midway point. Ascending the summit of Red Mountain Pass (11,018-ft), one of Colorado’s highest, we lock into an 8% slope on the Ouray-facing side. The closing stage, a fast, furiously fun downhill sweeps into one of our favorite places: Silverton (pop. 650), what Western dreams are made of. Nestled into a glorious alpine valley at 9,318-ft., truly secreted away in timeless beauty, Silverton’s two streets have witnessed some rich history: a former bawdy mining town, thick in brothels and saloons, Silverton’s evolved and matured. Yet that distinct frontier character remains; as does most of the Victorian-era buildings, stretching to the frozen-in-time mining vestiges that dot the hillsides. Winding down here, Silverton style is incomparable. The shops and restaurants in town are first-class, artisanal if not Old West gracious.
Total Seasoned Mileage | 23 Miles | Feet Gain | 3743
Casual Inn | Inn of the Rockies
Day 5: Silverton to Durango
Our closeout day concludes in spectacular fashion. The stage stretches from Silverton to Durango. The sequence includes climbs over Molas Pass (10, 910-ft), marked by a brief 8% grade, but predominantly 5%. Then, nine miles further, the Coal Bank Pass (10,610-ft). With no sharp curves, very little vehicular traffic, Coal Bank rates high on many a roadie’s bucket list. One brief 7% grade ultimately gives way to a 6.5% downhill, through the San Juan National Forest. A 33-mile long roller-coaster ride winds-up at Durango. Relishing the late afternoon sun, our epic five days in the Rockies ends where it began: Durango.
Total Mileage | 50 Miles | Feet Gain | 3842
**Note: While our tour passes Mesa Verde National Park, we do not ride through Mesa Verde national Park. If you wish to visit the National Park, we highly suggest going the day prior or day after while in the Durango area.
* This is a general itinerary. Tour itineraries are subject to change based on the group, available accommodations and other unforeseen circumstances such as the weather, local conditions, government intervention, that may affect the quality of the trip and/or safety of the participants. Please view this itinerary as an outline as to what to expect on this tour.
Bicycle
We breathe the crisp mountain air, as picturesque roads lead us through a sea of Rocky Mountain peaks rising all around us. If the elevations and climbs have made you hesitate on joining this tour in the past, we recommend using our new E-bike. This doubles your power throughout the tour and never compromising the scenery.
ROAD BIKE
For optimal physical preparation, we recommend that you ride at least several hours per week during the month preceding the tour. During the tour you will be on your bike every day, and we can assure you that an unprepared bottom is a sore one! If you can’t ride your bike, or don’t own one, take a spin class at your local gym a few times a week.
HIKING
To prepare for the tour, we recommend that you hike, jog or run at least several hours per week during the month preceding the tour. Walk/run in the shoes and sock you are bringing on the trip. This will help prevent blisters and sore feet.
Road bike $352.00
Specialized has perfected the road bike. Ride confidently and comfortably for longer distances.
Hybrid bike $ 270.60
Specialized hybrid bikes are the most comfortable bikes available. Our most popular bike for multi-sport and moderate road bike tours is the proven Sirrus. This bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. This bike sits upright, is equipped with a very comfortable seat, and the gearing has a wide range of speeds.
E-bike Hybrid $ 379.00
Specialized Turbu Hybrid E-bike. For those of you who have always wanted to join a bike tour but feared your fitness would hold you or the group back, fear no more. Our incredible e-bike option allows you to do more, go twice as fast and far. The all new Specialized Turbo has one goal and one goal only—to inspire you to get out, get moving, and to have some fun along the way. E-bike available for an additional price.
E-bike Road bike $541.25
Specialized Turbo Creo E-bike. Take a deep breath, turn on the power and enjoy a beautiful adventure on the all new Electric Road Bike. The new road E-bike now allows you to travel further distances and explore new areas. The pedal assisted technology also allows beginner and novice riders to join in on more challenging routes and terrain.
All of our road bike trips include a Garmin GPS device to help you navigate through each day safely and smoothly. You’ll know how far, fast, and high you’ve ridden on the flats or climbs or on your way through each day. Simply turn it on and start riding. No paper maps needed!
Lodging
Night 1: Sophia Retreat
Located in Dolores, Sophia Retreat and Event Center provides accommodations with free WiFi. Complimentary private parking is available on site. Mesa Verde National Park is a 25-minute drive from the property. A patio with mountain views is offered in all units and a continental breakfast is served each morning at the property. There is a garden at this property and guests can go hiking nearby.
Nights 2: Inn at Lost Creek
The Inn at Lost Creek is an award winning luxury boutique hotel offering 32 unique suites, with a premiere location, one of Telluride’s best restaurants, and a team that delivers highly personalized and quality service. In a prime location in the Mountain Village core, The Inn offers direct access to your favorite activities year round. Step outside during summertime and go for a scenic hike, or take a bike ride on one of Telluride’s world class trails just outside of the hotel. The gondola, Telluride’s free transportation system, connects the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village and is mere steps away; as are numerous choices for dining, shopping, and places to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Night 3: Hotel Ouray
Hotel Ouray, a Turn-of-the-Century Hotel with a Contemporary Touch in the Heart of Historic Downtown Ouray. This beautifully restored, historic hotel is in a great location in one of the most beautiful towns in Colorado.
Night 4: Inn of the Rockies – Historic Alma House
The Historic Alma house is a fun, relaxing, historic getaway with all the amenities needed for a perfect weekend retreat in a stunning setting of rustic mountains, waterfalls and historic mining relics. Rooms are quaint and comfortable; the breakfast hot and delicious! The grounds at Alma House are tranquil and well cared for…soft lights at night and bright flowers during the day. Several outdoor seating areas and a lush grassy lawn provide for a relaxing experience…with a hot tub perfect after a day’s biking.
Included:
- 4 Nights in casual inns
- Meals (except where noted on itineraries), snacks, non-alcoholic beverages.
- At least two professionally trained trip leaders, a mobile first aid and mechanic station, spare bikes, and a support vehicle(s).
Not included:
- Airfare to and from our departure point,
- Lodging before or after the tour,
- Rental bike,
- Gratuity to guides
Pricing / Tour dates
Tour price 2024: $ 3087.- pp
Rental bike:
Road bike $352.00
Hybrid bike $ 270.60
E-bike Hybrid $ 379.00
E-bike Road bike $541.25
Tour dates 2024:
03 Jun – 07 Jun
10 Jun – 14 Jun
17 Jun – 21 Jun
24 Jun – 28 Jun
01 Jul – 05 Jul
08 Jul – 12 Jul
15 Jul – 19 Jul
22 Jul – 26 Jul
29 Jul – 02 Aug
05 Aug – 09 Aug
12 Aug – 16 Aug
19 Aug – 23 Aug
26 Aug – 30 Aug
02 Sep – 06 Sep
Conditions
Deposit $500.- pp
The deposit payment for a tour must be paid within two weeks after the booking is confirmed.
The remaining payment is due 90 days before the start of the tour.
For tours that are booked within 90 days before the start of the tour you will pay 100% of the tour price
Information
Durango is a small city in southwestern Colorado, near the New Mexico border. The 19th-century Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad steam train passes mountains and canyons. In the city center, its affiliated Railroad Museum displays restored locomotives, aircraft and a baggage car converted into a movie theater. Nearby, the Powerhouse Science Center offers interactive exhibits in a former power plant.
MEETING LOCATION
ROCHESTER HOTEL & LELAND HOUSE
726 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO 81301
(970) 385-1920
https://www.rochesterhotel.com/
BEST WESTERN DURANGO INN
21382 U.S. Hwy. 160 West Durango CO
(970) 247-3251
https://www.bestwestern.com/
DEPARTURE TIME
8:00 AM on the first day of the tour.
RETURN TIME
Around 4:00 PM on the last day of the tour.
Weather
You will be riding and sleeping at elevations over 4,000 ft. for this trip. Weather predictions in this area are often unreliable due to the elevation, so it is best to be prepared for cold evenings and inclement weather. Please use the following locations when checking the weather online: Durango, CO
Our food isn’t just good, it’s good for you.
Food is a big part of the experience. On inns tours our Trip Leaders prepare all of your picnic style lunches and breakfasts and dinners are served in the best local restaurants. Expect three delicious meals a day consisting entirely of freshly prepared foods. These include fresh organic fruits and vegetables as well as meats. We also have energy snacks aboard our support vehicles. Don’t be surprised if your guides purchase fresh fruits and healthy snacks throughout the day while you are out riding. They may just show up on the trail with a local treat! Many of our guests are vegans or vegetarians, whom we are more than happy to accommodate. If you have special diet requirements or limitations, just let us know when you sign-up and we’ll work with you to meet your needs.
