Independence Pass is a true treasure for Colorado road cyclists. On a winding, paved road that tops out at 12,095 feet, the high-altitude ride captures the essence of Colorado mountain cycling. On Saturday, the 11th annual Ride for the Pass gives riders a chance to enjoy the scenic road before it opens to motorized traffic on Friday, May 27. The route winds 10 miles up from a spot 4 miles east of Aspen to the ghost town of Independence on Colorado 82, climbing 2,000 feet to the former mining townsite at 10,500 feet.
The family-friendly ride, which benefits the nonprofit Independence Pass Foundation’s effort to enhance the environmental and recreational appeal of the pass, ends with a party in Aspen. Racers start at 9 a.m., and families start at 9:15 a.m. Most riders finish in less than two hours, with winning racers pedaling the course in about 40 minutes. The next day, Aspen hosts a high-speed criterium on closed downtown streets.
Last year the popular Independence Pass ride attracted a record number of pedalers, so preregistration ($30 for individuals and $60 for families) is encouraged.
Go — Click over to www.independencepass.org for more information, or call the Aspen Recreation Department at 970-920-5140.
