After watching the great coverage on Versus or NBC of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge (UPCC), you may be inspired to come out to Colorado and tackle some of the highest, paved passes in the country. One of the great cycling experiences in the state of Colorado is climbing in the mountains, but it is difficult to pick your routes with just a road map. The state has a tremendous selection of canyons, passes and mountains to ascend with some of the most breathtaking views imaginable. Over the years my wife and I have been drawn to climb many of the passes and “classic climbs” in the state. We started in the San Juan mountains of southwest Colorado climbing Coal Bank, Molas and Red Mountain.
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One of the classic Colorado climbs is Trail Ridge road the highest paved through road in North America. See what it looks like after deep winter snow.
Several years ago I came across a list compiled on paved passes and classic rides. I was amazed that we have done many of the rides on the list and have lots of great memories from those rides. This makes me wonder how many other cyclists would benefit from knowledge we have gained. We have compiled a table with 80 climbs (paved passes and classic climbs) which hopefully will help in your plans to challenge yourself in the Rockies. The Colorado Bicycle Climbs website lists the climbs by; name, type, elevation, difficulty, nearby town, reported climbs, and map id. There is also a locator map. You can sort on any data field in the table.
As you prepare for your own personal challenge in the Colorado Rockies there are a few things that you should remember. The Colorado Bicycle Map displays fine on most smartphones and tablets, but make your plans before heading out. Cell service is ‘spotty’ at best on most of the climbs, so don‘t count on being able to check the website halfway up a climb. Along with using the site to plan your ride, make sure that you are prepare with all essential supplies including food/water, foul weather gear and appropriate repair items for your bike. The Colorado Rockies has endless beauty to offer and hopefully the UPCC has inspired you to make your own personal challenge!
Complete KineticShift Stage 2 Coverage of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge