Bike Ride in Colorado August 2019

Trying for the goal of a bike ride trip each month, August in cooler Colorado worked out quite well. The week of biking with Adventure Cycling was scenic, fairly easy, and with 35 interesting co-riders, a positive experience. Adventure Cycling has several variations; this version included a caterer who traveled with the group, a bike mechanic, a SAG wagon to carry gear and supplies, and several experienced tour coordinators. Most people, including me, tented, but some stayed in motels and were shuttled to and fro. The itinerary included Silverthorne, Jasper, Breckenridge, Edwards, Aspen, Vail, and Glenwood Springs. The hardest day was 50 mi and a climb over Vail Pass at 10,000 ft. 

Highlights were: The extensive network of paved bike roads, many along raging streams and rapids; snow covered peaks in the distance, cool nights and not overhot days, and well organized meals and rest stops. I have nothing but praise for the bike company, this being my 4th ride with them (Cycle Montana, Bryce and Zion National Parks, Texas Hill Country, and the Blue Bonnet Ride, also in Texas).

One highlight in Vail was the Betty Ford Alpine Garden, the highest alpine garden in the world. Extensive collections, waterfalls, walks in the woods, worth a trip. 

Climbing to Vail Pass

Mine is the white one on the left with the chair

General Store with impressive tree bench