Durango is the opening stage of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge on August 20, and the entire town is buzzing with anticipation. Pro riders from around the world will be peddling their way from Durango to Telluride with a “Grand Depart” that begins in downtown Durango and includes a 6.5-mile racing loop that encompasses most of town on August 20. But all the festivities surrounding this world-class event begin August 16 in Durango, and include a mountain bike race, bicycle tour, craft beer and bicycle tour, street festival, live music, an art unveiling and more exciting activities.
Bikers in Durango_Sven Brunso
Durango Mountain Resort will host a Festival of the Pro Challenge Experience Bicycle Tour, complete with post-tour activities, celebrations and live music. There are two rides during the Experience cycling tour. Both rides start from downtown Durango at 7 a.m., include a loop of the USA Pro Challenge official start, pass through Wildcat Canyon, over to Lake Nighthorse and then climb up to Durango Mountain Resort via County Road 250, where the resort will host a Finish Festival to celebrate a total ride length of 45 miles. Those wanting to extend their ride can return to Durango via Highway 550 to Fort Lewis College, which is a total of 72 miles.This is the greatest way for non-pros to ride parts of the same course as the pros.
Bikers in Durango_Sven Brunso
Sound like fun? Well, head on down and check it out. Guests who do attend are encouraged to book reservations now, as rooms are starting to be booked solid. Some may even end up having to pitch a tent in front yards. Lodging packages, registration, and more information can be found at http://www.durangomountainresort.com/usaprocyclingchallenge/
Bikers in Durango_Sven Brunso
