The Whole (~110 miles)

Too much? Just right?

Distance: 110 miles
Elevation Gain: 7,900’

HEADS UP: The segment of this route that goes through Stem Beach is PRIVATE and only open on event day. You can avoid this by simply finishing your ride on Little Burnt Mill Road / Starlite drive.

So you want the whole thing? Alright! This route takes riders through a full spectrum of SoCO scenery, climates, HILLS, and histories. You’ll share the route with “The Half” riders all the way into the Beulah Valley, then you’ll break off and climb the legendary “twelvemile” climb. One of few (the only?) unpaved Colorado “highway”, CO-78 aka twelvemile serves up one of our favorite climbs anywhere. With about 3,200’ over 10 miles with an average grade of 6% and a max grade of…13%? 16%? Hard to say. Hard to climb. And so good. This is one you’ll love to remember.

After finishing up twelvemile riders will descend CO-165 past scenic Lake Isabel (and another convenience store if you want), then down the rustic, foliage tunnel that is the Old San Isabel road descent. Weave through the foothills towns of Rye and Colorado City to get to the fast finish along 3R and Burnt Mill road. If you’re riding our Half or Whole, you’re in for a treat…both routes traverse through Stem Beach, a private natural area never opened for a cycling event and accessible only on event day. Thanks to EVRAZ Rocky Mountain Steel for working with us on access! Timing finishes between two of the Stem Beach lakes, and then you can cruise back to the start line along Pueblo’s historic Lake avenue.