Rocky Mountain Loop Road Tour

RIDING TYPE | ◆︎ Advanced
TRIP DURATION | 5-Days
SEASON | July – August
PRICE | Contact our Office for Dates and Pricing

Road Tours are booked on a private trip basis, requiring a minimum of 10 riders.

Experience the ultimate Colorado Rocky Mountain road bike tour, where you’ll conquer the legendary Independence Pass and take in the dramatic Black Canyon of the Gunnison. This elite, fully supported Colorado cycling adventure handles every logistical detail from the Grand Mesa to the West Elk Scenic Loop, allowing you to focus on an advanced array of high-alpine climbs and historic mountain passes.

This tour contains some very challenging riding on narrow, steep mountain passes. A high level of fitness is required to enjoyably complete the route. A support
van will be there so you can “control” your challenge, but only you can turn your pedals. If you do not consider yourself to be an expert rider and doubt your ability to complete this tour, please call us and we can help you determine whether this trip is appropriate for you. Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the trip. To fully enjoy Colorado’s amazing riding, training is required. Working up to these mileages over several months will help you enjoy the tour that much more once the big week finally comes. Having good low gears on your bike that you can spin as much as possible will also help ease the challenge of multiple days of climbing.

Overall Rating: Advanced
Physical Difficulty: Very difficult. High elevations, steep climbs, long miles.
Altitude: 4,000 - 12,000 feet
Mileage: 48-85 miles per day
Packing for your trip

DAY 1: Grand Mesa Summit & Cedaredge Descent

  • We start the week by climbing the scenic and historic Grand Mesa Byway to our high point at 10,800 feet.
  • The climb delivers incredible views of Plateau Creek and over 300 stream-fed lakes before the descent into the fruit-growing town of Cedaredge.
  • Total: 64 miles | 6,950 ft gain

DAY 2: Black Canyon & Scenic Route 92

  • We wind our way up, down, in, and out on scenic Route 92, a backcountry byway seemingly built for road biking, leading towards Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
  • The day's cumulative effort will test the legs before we roll into Gunnison Valley along Blue Mesa Reservoir, ready for a "cowboy dinner."
  • Total: 85 miles | 5,800 ft gain

DAY 3: Monarch Pass & Buena Vista Reward

  • Today, we tackle the Monarch Pass climb, gaining 3,600 vertical feet to reach the 11,312-foot summit.
  • The big downhill into Buena Vista is pure reward for this huge day in the saddle, with lodging nestled right in the Arkansas River Valley.
  • Total: 84 miles | 4,000 ft gain

DAY 4: Independence Pass & Aspen Finale 

  • Prepare for the "Alpe d’Huez" of the trip: the climb up Independence Pass (12,095 feet).
  • We pass in the shadow of Mount Elbert (Colorado’s tallest peak) to conquer this 12,000-foot beast before the exhilarating descent into Colorado’s tinsel town, Aspen.
  • Total: 60 miles | 4,100 ft gain

DAY 5: McClure Pass & Carbondale Finale

  • Our final day brings us down valley from Aspen, past Mount Sopris and the historic coke ovens at Redstone.
  • The last major effort is the climb over McClure Pass (8,755 feet) before the cruise towards the farmland of Paonia, concluding with a farewell picnic lunch and shuttle back to Grand Junction.
  • Total: 48 miles | 1,800 ft gain

Grand Junction, CO
This trip will meet at 8:00 AM MST at the Clarion Inn, 755 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction, Colorado, 970-243-6790. You will need to spend the night before in

ENDING TIME

We will return to Grand Junction between 4:00-5:00 PM on the last day.

Driving
Grand Junction is 250 miles west of Denver and 50 miles east of the Utah/Colorado state line on I-70.

Flying into Grand Junction
Airport Code: GJT

TAXI SERVICE

Sunshine Taxi: 970-245-8294

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

It is a good idea to book your rooms in advance; here are a few recommendations:

Clarion Inn
970-243-6790, 888-489-9796
This is where the trip will meet—mention that you are on a Western Spirit trip. They have storage available while you are on your trip.

Ramada Inn
970-243-5150, 800-272-6232

Best Western Sandman
970-243-4150

Quality Inn of Grand Junction
970-245-7200, 800-790-2661

All of these hotels offer airport shuttles.

ACCOMMODATIONS DURING YOUR TRIP

Prices are based on double occupancy. If you are traveling alone, we will pair you with another guest. If you prefer your own room, ask about the single supplement and we will accommodate if available.

Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

RIDING TYPE | ◆︎ Advanced

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | July - August

Rocky Mountain Loop Road Tour: Conquer Colorado's 12,000-Foot Passes

Advanced Road Cycling in the Heart of the Colorado Rockies

Have Bob Roll, Phil Liggett, and Paul Sherwin inspired you to climb high mountain passes and rip down incredible descents like a "grand prix motor car"? There is no need to travel to Europe for such a road biking experience. In the Colorado Rockies, we have spectacular passes surrounded by snowcapped peaks and lush wildflowers. Are you ready for the serious challenge of five days of mountain passes through the heart of the Rockies?

This is our most advanced road tour, incorporating several of Colorado's most scenic and historic byways. We start by riding up and over Grand Mesa, east of Grand Junction. From here, we head to the West Elk Scenic Loop and on to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Then it's up and over Monarch Pass to Buena Vista and the famous Independence Pass into Aspen. Finally, we spin out of Carbondale over McClure Pass to complete the loop. For those ready for a serious effort towards a higher plane of being, this route offers a truly transcendent experience. Up for the challenge?

Advanced Challenge: The Ultimate Colorado Rockies Road Tour

This premier Colorado Rockies road bike tour is designed for expert riders who demand sustained high-altitude effort, rewarded by epic descents and seamless support:

  • Triple-Pass Summitry: Conquer three major mountain passes exceeding 11,000 feet, including the iconic Monarch Pass (11,312 ft) and the supreme challenge of Independence Pass (12,095 ft).
  • Iconic Byway Traverse: Experience the full spectrum of Colorado's majesty, from the scenic climb up Grand Mesa to the narrow canyons surrounding the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
  • Extreme High-Altitude Fitness: Rated Very Difficult due to cumulative elevation gain (~22,000+ feet) and sustained riding at altitudes up to 12,095 feet. Training is required to fully enjoy this high-plane adventure.
  • Fully Supported & Historic Lodging: Enjoy comfortable accommodations in historic mining towns and river valleys each night, with full Western Spirit support ensuring you can focus entirely on turning your pedals to the top.

This tour contains some very challenging riding on narrow, steep mountain passes. A high level of fitness is required to enjoyably complete the route. A support
van will be there so you can “control” your challenge, but only you can turn your pedals. If you do not consider yourself to be an expert rider and doubt your ability to complete this tour, please call us and we can help you determine whether this trip is appropriate for you. Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the trip. To fully enjoy Colorado’s amazing riding, training is required. Working up to these mileages over several months will help you enjoy the tour that much more once the big week finally comes. Having good low gears on your bike that you can spin as much as possible will also help ease the challenge of multiple days of climbing.

  • Overall Rating: Advanced
  • Physical Difficulty: Very difficult. High elevations, steep climbs, long miles.
  • Altitude: 4,000 - 12,000 feet
  • Mileage: 48-85 miles per day

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

Grand Junction, CO
This trip will meet at 8:00 AM MST at the Clarion Inn, 755 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction, Colorado, 970-243-6790. You will need to spend the night before in

ENDING TIME

We will return to Grand Junction between 4:00-5:00 PM on the last day.

GETTING TO GRAND JUNCTION, CO

Driving
Grand Junction is 250 miles west of Denver and 50 miles east of the Utah/Colorado state line on I-70.

Flying into Grand Junction
Airport Code: GJT

TAXI SERVICE

Sunshine Taxi: 970-245-8294

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

It is a good idea to book your rooms in advance; here are a few recommendations:

Clarion Inn
970-243-6790, 888-489-9796
This is where the trip will meet—mention that you are on a Western Spirit trip. They have storage available while you are on your trip.

Ramada Inn
970-243-5150, 800-272-6232

Best Western Sandman
970-243-4150

Quality Inn of Grand Junction
970-245-7200, 800-790-2661

All of these hotels offer airport shuttles.

ACCOMMODATIONS DURING YOUR TRIP

Prices are based on double occupancy. If you are traveling alone, we will pair you with another guest. If you prefer your own room, ask about the single supplement and we will accommodate if available.

Be sure to bring everything on this list. We have carefully developed this list to ensure your comfort on the tour regardless of the weather. If you are prepared for extreme weather, it is an adventure. If you are not prepared it can be a serious problem. We recommend the layering system, including a wicking or long underwear layer, an insulating layer and a weather barrier for wind and rain. This list reflects that philosophy. Weather can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed!

HOW TO PACK: The bulk of your gear and clothing will ride in the Western Spirit support vehicle (preferably in a large duffle bag) and will not be accessible during the day. While this trip is vehicle supported, there will be extended times when you are away from the vehicle. For this trip, you will need to be able to carry some extra clothing while riding. You can either bring a riding pack or carry these items in your jersey.

A small day bag is optional and may be used to store things you’d rather not ride with, but would like to have access to during the day. This daypack will remain with the support vehicle and will be available periodically throughout the day.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
✓ meals, snacks, water, electrolyte drinks, non-alcoholic drinks
✓ camp mugs, all kitchen and dining ware
✓ 2 large cycling water bottles
✓ sunscreen & bug spray
✓ bike stand and lube
✓ guides bring their own tools
✓ first aid kit with basic medications

BRINGING OR RENTING

o road bike:

  • if you’re bringing your own bike, make sure to bring a pump, tire levers, spare tubes, and optional CO2 cartridges.
  • if you’re renting, we will provide all the above items. Rental bikes have 2 water bottle cages on them. Our rentals come with flat pedals. You are welcome to bring your own shoe-pedal combination if you prefer.

o helmet (gratis w/rental bike)

CYCLING CLOTHING

o cycling or hiking shoes
o 3 - 5 pair cycling shorts
o 3 - 5 cycling jerseys
o long sleeve jersey
o cycling socks
o windbreaker
o knee warmers/warm tights
o cycling gloves (including warm gloves)
o ear band
o booties
o rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
o rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
o warm layer (lightweight synthetic puffy jacket or long sleeve fleece shirt)
o sunglasses or other eye protection

CASUAL CLOTHING

o casual shorts
o casual long pants
o shirts (long and short sleeve)
o one nice dinner outfit
o socks
o jammies
o pile or fleece jacket
o warm gloves and hat
o hat or visor
o swim suit
o comfortable walking shoes
o sandals

PERSONAL

o toiletries
o medication (daily and emergency)
o sunglasses
o optional riding pack
o optional day bag
o cash for tipping guides: your guides work as a team and share all of their gratuities. A tip of 10-20% of the price of your trip given to either one of your guides when you return to civilization is a great way to say thanks for a job well done.

OPTIONAL

o camera, extra batteries
o binoculars
o alcoholic or any of your favorite beverages (your guides will pack these)
o books or maps
o we encourage you to turn your devices off, how ever, if you cannot we recommend putting your phone on airplane mode to save power. If you feel that you need to recharge your devices during the day, we recommend a portable USB charger with 1-2 charges
o charger for phone or other devices at hotel

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Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

Rocky Mountain Loop Road Tour

PRICE | Contact our Office for Dates and Pricing

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

Contact Us

Road Tours are booked on a private trip basis, requiring a minimum of 10 riders.

A Day With Western Spirit

Rise & Shine
How do you like to start your day? If you like waking up to hot coffee and unforgettable sunrises you’re in luck. Delicious cowboy coffee, fresh fruit salad, pancakes, bacon, granola, yogurt and more.

>>> Read More

Hit The Trail
Whether your trip includes: riding
the Rainbow Rim Trail; enjoying breathtaking views of the
Grand Canyon; leading your
friends on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands; or ripping down.

>>> Read More

Apres
We base our itineraries around the trails that we love to ride, but also around great camp locations. We love to find the perfect place next to rivers or lakes , or by vistas
and sunset spots.

>>> Read More

BIKE TRIP TESTIMONIALS

“This was our 3rd trip with Western Spirit, so we knew what to expect from the guides and the support they’d provide. The trip itself was spectacular – the scenery was unbeatable and the weather was perfect.”

~ Jennifer

Your guides are your ambassadors, they are fun, energetic and very knowledgeable. I would not do anything different.

~ Paul

“Food was WAY better than I expected. I like to eat healthy and was worried about “camping food.” The guides prepared amazing food. The trip was a blast in general with gorgeous scenery and good campsites. Guides were very friendly, patient and helpful”

~ Erika

The guides made the trip totally beyond awesome. They were fun, the food was WAY better than I expected, the rides could be were tailored, guiding was superb, trails were a blast, our campsite was sweet. I have zero complaints.

~ Wendy
“I was worried riding and camping with a group… could I keep up?… would I “fit in”? I was able to keep up and push myself and was challenged by the terrain, I loved it! The group was great I had nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and supportive.”
~ Robin

“The trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… the scenery, the views, the guides, and the food! I loved how great the meals were!!! The guides were unbelievable cooks! After biking all day, to be able to sit down and eat a great meal & drink a beer …man, it was great!”

~ Gary

“Normally I do self supported but having someone else make excellent food makes me want to do it again”

~ Christl

“I was tired at the end of each day and to have everything taken care of as far as dinner and cleanup, it was so nice to have that not be my issue. The guides were amazing, simply amazing….the food was always excellent, their personalities are different but blended with everyone perfectly!”

~ Pam

Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!

~ Teri

“Warmth, humor, seriously good people skills,professionalism, competence. They execute their very serious responsibilities with confidence-inspiring grace.”

~ David

The food was fantastic! I didn’t expect such meals. The guides were so friendly, helpful, and entertaining. They really worked well together. Also, they made sure that everyone in their various skill levels enjoyed the rides and that there was enough for everyone.

~ Nichole

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been on any organized event and this one was simply amazing. My skill and fitness level were not up to those as others in the group but never once did I feel intimidated…”

~ Nick

“Very accommodating of me being vegan, very cheerful and nice.”

~ Jason

“To begin with the landscape and scenery was majestic and awesome. The guides were all instrumental in enhancing the experience with their knowledge, skills, and out of the goodness of their character.”

~ Edward

“Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!”

~ Teri

“I had been to Canyonlands two years prior so knew scenery was outstanding but it takes on even more magnificence when seen from seat of bike. The guides were awesome and supportive. Food was better than in most restaurants and more than you could eat.”

~ Michael

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