Our signature tour is back. The tour begins and ends in Gunnison, Colorado. Plan to arrive in Gunnison on Friday, July 16 and begin cycling on July 17. We will arrive back in Gunnison on Saturday, July 24.

 

Day 1 (88 miles, 3,800feet of climbing) takes us along the north rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison to Paonia. Those who have ridden it know that this day includes the best 40 miles of pavement for two-wheeled travel in Colorado. The night in Paonia includes a group meal with Dava Parr at her famous Fresh and Wyld Restaurant.

 

Day 2 (88 miles, 1,900 feet) travels along roads recommended by a Heartcycle member who lives in Paonia. We venture from Paonia to Ouray, the heart of the Switzerland of Colorado. Enjoy the hot springs pool at the end of the day. This is a day to sit back in the saddle and take in the splendid views of the San Juan Mountains.

 

Day 3 (71 miles, 6,400 feet) begins the serious climbing of this tour. We go along the “Million Dollar Highway” over Red Mountain, Molas and Coal Bank passes. A long descent ends in Durango where we will spend two nights in the heart of town close to shopping and restaurants.

 

Day 4 (0 miles, 0 feet) we enjoy a well-deserved rest day in Durango. You can hike, take a trip to Mesa Verde National Park or ride the narrow gauge train to Silverton and back.

 

Day 5 (90 miles, 3,400 feet) gets us back in the saddle traveling along roads recommended by our Durango members, through the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, ending in Pagosa Springs. (Yes, there is a hot springs in Pagosa Springs.)

 

Day 6 (64 miles, 6,400 feet) takes us over Wolf Creek Pass down into South Fork and then up the Rio Grande River into Creede. You might be able to catch a performance of the Creede Repertory Theatre this evening.

 

Day 7 (50 miles, 3,800 feet) moves us from Creede over Spring Creek Pass and then the spectacular and infamous Slumgullion Pass before descending into Lake City. Remember to take in the views of Colorado’s largest natural lake, Lake San Cristobol. Enjoy a nice dinner on your own with Bruno at the Moose Alpine Lodge.

 

Day 8 (55 miles, 2,100 feet) takes us from Lake City along the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River then over Dutch Hill and Ninemile Hill before descending into Gunnison.

 

Tour Leader: Gary Angerhofer, 303-989-2015, garyangerhofer@gmail.com