Boulder Self-Guided Bike Tour

Today is a very special day as you have the opportunity to experience Left Hand Canyon, one of the most popular road rides in Boulder and a top climb in the United States! Left Hand Creek will run alongside the majority of the climb and when you don't see it, you are close enough to hear it or hear the wind blowing through the trees that fill the canyon, making it a very calming and peaceful ride. The grade rarely approaches double digits and while the sustained climb lasts over an hour, it will test your legs without being overwhelming. With a final segment of about one and a half miles at 8.5% gradient, you will reach the top of the climb in Ward, a town that is worth a visit to see remnants of the mining rush and a perfect opportunity to refuel with some food before continuing on. Take a rest here, breathe in the fresh alpine air while enjoying exceptional views of stark surrounding peaks. If you feel like adding a few bonus miles of climbing, the avid option will lead you to a peaceful road surrounded by thick forest reaching Brainard Lake at 10,500 feet above sea level! Take a rest here, breathe in the fresh alpine air while enjoying exceptional views of stark surrounding peaks. Due to its elevation, snow melts late so the avid option is best ridden only in July and August. You will enjoy a long and beautiful descent on your way back to Boulder but be sure to use caution as you're likely be a bit tired after your big climb this morning.

Today you'll ride into the charming town of Hygiene. This route will treat you to gorgeous views all along the way, starting with the Colorado Rockies' front range. If you're hungry or want to hang out with the locals, stop at the Mountain Fountain on your left. Remember to fill up your water bottles here, as this is the last place to do so before returning to Boulder. Avid riders can continue on along the Peak to Peak highway, another classic Boulder road bike ride. After a mile of steady climbing at 8% grade, the road will drop down into a valley around Caribou Ranch. The second and longer climb with a sustained grade of 8% will follow the brief downhill. Climb all the way to the small mountain town of Ward. Then you can enjoy descending down Lefthand Canyon as you return to Boulder. Tonight you will be ready to enjoy a feast in town but it might be hard to select from a wide array of recommendations that are at your fingertips. Whatever you choose, it will be a delicious way to celebrate the accomplishments of the day.

It's time to say goodbye to this slice of heaven but don't miss the opportunity of an early morning ride. We saved the most popular one for today, the mighty Flagstaff! Beginning right at the base of historic Chautauqua Park, this iconic climb was once part of the Coors Classic and was put on the cycling map in part by local legend Andy Hampsten. This famous six-mile climb really kicks it up once you have crossed over the stone bridge. You will relish the challenge of switchback after switchback as Boulder and the Flatirons start looking smaller and smaller and your legs get used to the unrelenting ascent. Once you reach the iconic panorama at Sunrise Amphitheater, if you are still looking for a challenge, you can go even further up what's known locally as "SuperFlag" to the mailboxes at the beginning of Boulder Open Space. Don’t be surprised if you see a few pros flying by and making it look easy. The pavement is perfect, the road is twisty, and the views are incredible! Back at the hotel, take a shower and prepare your bags for check out. Your host will meet you at the St.Julien Hotel at 11:00 AM to collect your bike and related accessories.