Road Rides
The Four Corners region of Colorado hosts some of the best road rides of anywhere in the United States. Starting from different points around Durango, rides travel through western lands steeped in history, breathtaking vistas, winding canyons and wide-open spaces.
Climbing the majestic San Juan Mountains to the north, west towards Mesa Verde NP, the rolling hills east of town, south down to the fields and meadows or a simple spin around the Animas Valley, there is something for every rider – type and ability. Stopping at Bakers Bridge at the north end of the Animas Valley, where the famous scene of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid jumping into the river was filmed, is a must. And, as all local riders know, waving to the passengers on the world-famous Narrow-Gauge Train becomes a high point of your ride.
Every year there is an annual pilgrimage to Durango on Memorial Day weekend for the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, which just celebrated its 50th anniversary! Around 2500 riders and racers ride 47 miles from Durango over two mountain passes to Silverton. HWY550 is closed in both directions from Purgatory to Silverton so riders can truly enjoy the ride. The weekend also hosts other cycling events during the weekend that include Gravel rides, MTB races and other competitions – it is a must do weekend of cycling celebration. Be sure to click on their link in the Pedal Durango Events menu.
Being aware of your surroundings means something a bit different here in Durango. You might ride alongside a deer herd, or a ride may slow down as wild turkey’s cross the road. Sharing the road with fellow riders and wildlife we ask that you be courteous and appreciate the breathtaking scenery and fellow wildlife making their own journeys.
- Make sure you ride single file when traffic is present.
- Don’t wear headphones so that you can hear traffic.
- Highly recommended to ride with a taillight so that you can be more visible to vehicles.
- Obey the rules of the road! We want to make sure that Durango is a spot you return to again and again.
