Golden Gate Canyon

Description The Golden Gate Canyon ride is a challenging 22 mile up and back ride along Golden Gate Canyon road.  It features tough climbs, fast descents, and scenic canyon views.
Hazards Be sure to bring extra clothing along, with such a big elevation change the weather at the top can be much different then at the bottom.  I have seen it snowing at the top while being sunny at the bottom.  Also, watch out for loose gravel on your way back down on a fast descent that can easily reach speeds of 50 mph..
		The Route Start from Highway 93 and Golden Gate Canyon Road near Golden.  Ride west on Golden Gate Canyon road until you reach Gilpin county, and ride back.  Optionally for an extra added challenge, ride the extra 6 miles until the end of Golden Gate Canyon Road near Cold Springs campground before turning around.
Difficulty The ride is extremely challenging with 3850 feet of elevation gain an average grade of 8%!  The first 6 miles are very do able, but then you drop 1000 feet until the 7.5 mile mark and begin a very tough climb the rest of the way up.   Be prepared to be out of your saddle in you granny gear near the top.
Overall Rating: This is a great Colorado bicycle ride.  There is just enough shoulder room for a bicyclist so it is fairly safe and it is very challenging, perhaps even too challenging.  While riding this route you will see why the Golden Gate Canyon road is well named.