Mount Evans

Description

The Mount Evans ride is a 56 mile ride from Idaho Springs to the summit of Mount Evans up the highest paved road in North America and back down again.  Climbing above the timberline you will see views to the end of the world along with the interesting local wildlife that includes Marmots, Mountain Goats, and Big Horn Sheep.

Hazards

Due to the extreme elevation be prepared for cold weather.  It can be 90 degrees in Denver and in the low 50's up on top of Mount Evans.  The extremely high altitude can result in snow year round which can also result in road closures so to be safe call the Clear Creek Ranger District at 303-567-2901 for current road conditions.  The high altitude also increases your chances of getting sunburned so be sure to wear lots of suntan lotion and of course there is a lot less oxygen at 14,000 feet!

The Route

From the start of Highway 103 in Idaho Springs ride south to Echo Lake.  From the Mount Evans entrance ride up Highway 5 until you have reached the summit.  From there, after taking in the incredible view have fun on your very long descent back down to Idaho Springs.  Be aware that Highway 5 is only open between May and September and cyclists have to pay a $3.00 fee that is good for 3 days.

Difficulty

This ride combines the highest paved road in North America with the second greatest single climb elevation gain so it is extremely challenging.  From Summit Lake you can see the top, but you still have some of the toughest climbing ahead of you with what seems like an endless amount of switchbacks.  If you think your fast test yourself in the annual Bob Cook Memorial\Mt. Evans Hill climb race.

Overall Rating:

This is a fantasticly rewarding ride.  Not only do you get the accomplish of riding up a fourteneer, but you also get one of a kind scenery and wildlife.  For some more information on the Mount Evans area check out MountEvans.com