The RMCC returns to Colorado's Western Slope to ride the Colorado Mesa Double Century. This challenging double century explores some of the Grand Valley's most difficult and spectacular climbs, including the monstrous Grand Mesa and the Colorado National Monument, the showpiece climb of Western Colorado. Here are the highlights for this great ride:
Distance: 206 miles
Climbing: 13,500 feet
Start Time: Wheels turning at 4AM
Time Limit: 19 hours
Start/End Location: Fruita Welcome Center Park
Map Link: Ride With GPS Link
Full Description: Meetup Description
Support: We are planning for this ride to be self-supported. Options for self-support are fairly frequent on this route.
Course Description: This event features 3 major climbs:
Grand Mesa (elev. 10,839 feet): Hors Categorie (HC). The Grand Mesa is a monster climb, gaining over 6,000 feet in 21 miles! Although the average grade of the entire climb up the Grand Mesa is only 5%, the early sections of this climb are exposed and much steeper, guaranteed to test the best climbers! Many cyclists will argue that the Grand Mesa is an even more difficult climb than Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park. The Grand Mesa is a true grind that will test your mental and physical fortitude!
Reeder Mesa Loop/Purdy Mesa/Kannah Creek Loop (elev. 6,170 feet), Category 4. The Reeder Mesa Loop is approximately 30 miles in length and is well-known to cyclists in the Grand Junction area. This scenic loop climbs gently through ranch lands along the Kannah Creek, reaching a high point of 6,170 feet and gaining over 1,700 feet. The steep, twisty descent down Reeder Mesa Road Hill, with grades approaching 10%, will certainly have riders "white knuckling" their brakes as they creep down this short, tricky descent!
Colorado National Monument (elev. 6,640 feet), Category 2. The iconic Colorado National Monument is the crown jewel of the Colorado Western Slope! It can definitely be argued that if you're going to do one ride in Western Colorado, this is it! The scenery, featuring ubiquitous red rock mesas and stone spires, is simply stunning...unlike anything else in Colorado! The National Monument features a double-peaked climb, climbing over 2,700 feet and reaching its high point along the windy Rimrock Drive at 6,640 feet. Riders will want to keep the digital camera handy while riding the monument. A few picture stops along the way will be worth the memories!
Additional Notes:
- Some ultra-distance experience is encouraged (but not required) to participate in this event. If you do not have such experience, we do recommend having personal support.
- Given the exposure to high altitude, nasty weather can be a major concern with this event. Participants need to be prepared and bring their best winter- and wet-riding gear with them!
- Lights and reflective gear are required!
- Memorial Day weekend can be busy in Grand Junction. Make your hotel reservations soon if you plan to stay overnight!
- All details subject to change