Did the San Juan Loop via Gateway canyons last year.. GREAT 3 days..
Want to come back to a different area in July this year. Maybe Colo Springs/Denver. The Walden loop looks great, any others in this area ? Or other rides you'd recommend.
Looking at a 3 day ride here...
- Pikes Peak run from Colo Springs
- Highway 77 to Colorado's Mini Devil's Tower
- Frontier Pathways Scenic & Historic Byway
- Walden Loop
When are you planning on coming? That route would be clear of snow by now easily, but the weather can get rough up there almost anytime of year. Just be prepared with rain gear and a willingness to stop.
The places you've chosen are great, really nothing bad in the mountains. Avoid I-70 on the weekends - outdoor recreational traffic is a mess. If that won't bug you, consider breaking off for a loop like this:
It'll take you over a pretty low pass (Kenosha Pass), then a pretty hi one (Guanella Pass). Both get you above the tree line and have some pretty awesome views.
Also, not sure if you've spent much time riding on non-Interstates in the mountains: prepare for slow traffic due to the terrain. Usually you'll max out around 45, rarely 55, and sometimes get stuck behind a big 'ol RV that does 10 under that.
Have fun, the Front Range is an awesome area. Don't be afraid to stop at the skeeziest looking burger/pizza joints in the small mountain towns - usually they're the best.
Great ! Thanks Prestob. Plan on coming in July. 1st day to Colorado Springs then up the path given above. We'll have rain gear.. but would like to avoid it like an ex-wife. We've had our share of torrential downpours..
Will adjust to your route, we'll probably be riding during the week. Saw this route by "gtmalone" in another post. (thanks GT) !
Totally agree on the dives.. I'm prefer the Mountains of Tenn/ARK/Colo, less traffic and great views.
Thanks Again Prestob, much appreciated !
Looks great. That's definitely something I'd do on one of my weekends. Forgot to mention - bring sunscreen if you care about sunburns. Once you get up in elevation, it's crazy how quickly you can burn exposed skin (I'm talking 15 to 30 minutes, depending on complexion).
Also, if you stop in Georgetown (where you cross I-70 after Guenella pass), stop at Mother's Saloon - service can be slow, everytime I've been there one kind lady has bartender, waitress, and cook, but the beer and food are great, especially the green chili.
Those are some very nice routes to take. I live in SW Denver by the front range hills so I am spoilt with amazing rides right out of my door. You really cant go wrong with rides and views out here, I stay away from Denver and like to take off into the mountains just to explore and see where I end up.
You will have a lot of fun!
04-04-2017, 05:49 PM
Shout out to Colorado...
