The Spanish Peaks Pursuit Double Century is a new gravel event for 2022! This challenging double century explores some of the gravel roads that that are commonly ridden around Trinidad, but also includes some great roads that are not used in other events!
Here are the highlights for this great ride:
Distance: 193 miles
Climbing: 13,775 feet
Gravel/Pavement mix: 65/35
Start Time: Wheels turning at 3:30 AM; Early start option 3AM
Time Limit: 20 hours
Start/End Location:Holiday Inn Express in Trinidad
Map Link: Ride With GPS Link
Support: This is an unsupported ride. There are a limited number of stores along the route which are noted on the map. There may be water support if there is significant turnout.
Course Description: This event features 2 major climbs:
Cordova Pass (elev. 11,260 feet), Category HC: This is a 37 mile climb staring from Cokedale at 6300 feet at mile 8 and we hit the top 45 miles into the ride. The last several miles are on a rougher road. While this climb will take some time, we will have the hardest part of the ride completed at the one-quarter mark!
La Veta Pass (elev. 9413 feet), Category 1. Starting from La Veta at 7000 feet, this is a scenic, mostly paved climb up the pass. At the very top we will take the graveled "Old La Veta pass" road through the La Veta Pass/Uptop Historic District.
Description of the Second Half. After the summit of La Veta we will head north on Pass Creek Road which is a great road that few people have ridden which should provide some of the best fall color on the ride. We then emerge out of the trees for some downhill pavement through Gardiner. From there it's a mix of gravel and paved roads to Walsenberg and back to Trinidad, with relentless views of the Spanish Peaks most of the way!
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.
- This ride is unsupported although limited water support may be added.
- 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! Note that this is later in the year than other TC rides and will thus involve more night riding.
- While this ride does have significant miles on pavement, you will want a proper gravel bike/tires for this ride.
- If we do not have at least 3 advance registrations for the ride, it may be cancelled.
- All details subject to change