Leadville Loop

Rundown:
The Leadville Loop provides the state’s most scenic views, giving cyclists a chance to experience a classic high alpine road loop.

Distance:
85 Miles

Level of Difficulty:
Difficult

Vail Velo Members Rating:
Elevation Profile:


Season:
Spring - Fall

How to Get There:
Drive west on Interstate 70 to Vail (Exit 176). Turn right at the roundabout onto South Frontage Road to the Lionshead parking structure.

Description:
Begin riding west on the South Frontage Road from the Lionshead parking structure. Cyclists will continue straight on the frontage road to West Vail, riding under the interstate bridge, until the frontage road comes to a dead-end. The road then turns into the bike path along Gore Creek.

Cyclists will turn left onto U.S. Highway 6 and 24 toward Minturn, Red Cliff and Leadville. The highway takes riders over Battle Mountain Pass, Camp Hale and then over Tennessee Pass (10,424 feet).

At the intersection of Highway 24 and Highway 91 turn left and ride towards Copper Mountain. Riders will gradually climb over Fremont Pass (11,318 feet) before descending towards Interstate 70. At the entrance of Copper Mountain Resort, turn left and follow the signs to the Vail Pass bike path. The path begins next to the horse stables. Riders will then grind their way up and over Vail Pass (10,666 feet). The descent will begin just beyond the rest area, as the route passes Black Lakes. The views of the Gore Range will be awesome as riders head down into East Vail. Continue to following the route as it changes to an old road. Ride another 2.15 miles from Gore Creek campground to the end of Bighorn Rd. Turn left onto the Gore Valley Trail and follow the paved bike path back to Vail and the start of the ride.



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