Minturn via Tennessee Pass

This challenging road cycling route is approximately 99 kilometers (61.6 miles) long. Cyclists with very good fitness can expect the ride to take over 5 hours, not including stops.

The route features significant elevation changes and diverse terrain. While much of the surface is well-paved, some sections, particularly near Minturn, may have 'bumps and breaks in the road.' You'll encounter strenuous climbs, including a three-mile stretch with 6-7.5% grades, switchbacks near Tennessee Pass, and a long, mostly flat plateau with rollers.

No, this route is considered a hard road ride and is not suitable for beginners. It demands very good fitness due to its significant elevation gain (over 1,600 meters or 5,400 feet) and sustained climbs. Cyclists should be prepared for over 5 hours of riding.

When starting from Minturn, you can typically find parking within the town. Specific parking lots for cyclists are usually available, but it's always a good idea to check local regulations or community resources for the most current information on trailhead access and parking availability in Minturn, Colorado.

The route is rich with scenic and historical points. You'll pass the Red Cliff Bridge, a picturesque steel arch bridge. At Tennessee Pass, you'll find the Continental Divide and the 10th Mountain Division Memorial. The ride also connects to Harrison Avenue (Downtown Leadville), the highest city in the U.S.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October), when the mountain passes are clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Summer offers warmer temperatures, while fall provides stunning foliage, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential early snow at higher elevations.

While the route passes through areas near or within the Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required for road cycling on the public roads that comprise this route. However, always check with local land management agencies for any updated regulations or specific requirements for certain activities or areas within the monument.

This route primarily follows public roads, where dogs are generally permitted. However, if you venture onto any side trails or stop at specific points of interest, always check local signage for dog regulations, especially regarding leash laws or restricted areas. It's always best to keep dogs leashed and under control for their safety and that of others.

Yes, this route intersects with several other trails. Notably, it covers significant sections of the Colorado Trail (including segments 7, 8, and 9) and portions of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT). You'll also find smaller segments of the ADT - Colorado C - Q - Seg 4 and the Mineral Belt Trail.

The climbs vary significantly depending on your starting point. Starting from Minturn, the initial 2.5 miles are relatively flat before a strenuous three-mile climb with 6-7.5% grades. The final ascent to Tennessee Pass (10,424 feet) involves switchbacks, with the steepest parts at the beginning and near the summit. Conversely, climbing from Leadville to Tennessee Pass is considered easier, involving only about 500 feet of climbing over roughly ten miles. Be aware that the return to Leadville can include a short 5% climb back into the city.

The route offers continuously changing and spectacular scenery. You'll experience roaring rivers, deep canyons, and dense forested areas. Views include the Eagle River and the impressive 13,237-foot Notch Mountain. As you approach Leadville, the landscape transitions to a wide valley framed by 14,000-foot peaks, offering expansive vistas.