Minturn, Red Cliff, and Vail Pass via Shrine Pass Road loop from Vail — Gravel

This challenging loop is approximately 68.7 kilometers (42.7 miles) long with significant elevation gain. Komoot estimates the cycling duration to be around 5 hours and 6 minutes, but this can vary based on your fitness level, stops, and weather conditions.

The loop starts from Vail. While specific parking details aren't provided, Vail offers various parking options for visitors. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and availability, especially during peak seasons.

While technically doable on a road bike, a gravel bike or a road bike with wider tires (30mm+) is highly recommended. The route features a mix of paved sections, like the Vail Pass Bike Path, and unpaved gravel sections, particularly on Shrine Pass Road. Some parts may have sandy spots, large rocks, or steep grades, making wider tires more comfortable and safer.

No, this route is considered difficult and is not suitable for beginners. It's classified as a "Hard road ride" requiring very good fitness due to its significant elevation gain of approximately 1,360 meters (4,460 feet) and high altitude, with Vail Pass reaching over 10,600 feet. Riders may need to push their bikes for some segments.

You'll experience a diverse range of surfaces. The route includes paved sections, notably the Vail Pass Bike Path, and extensive gravel sections, especially on Shrine Pass Road. Expect well-maintained gravel jeep road, but also potentially sandy spots, large rocks, and steep grades. Some segments connecting Minturn, Colorado to Red Cliff Bridge might even involve singletrack.

This route offers truly amazing views. You'll enjoy spectacular alpine vistas, especially of Mount of the Holy Cross. Key highlights include the View of the Valley, Black Lake (Dam Number 1), and the historic towns of Minturn, Colorado and Red Cliff Bridge. During summer, you can expect meadows of wildflowers.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the summer months when the high-altitude passes are clear of snow and wildflowers are in bloom. An early start is highly recommended, as thunderstorms can roll in quickly in the afternoons at these elevations.

This route is located within the White River National Forest. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on the roads and trails along this route. However, always check with the local Forest Service office for any updated regulations or specific area closures before your trip.

While the White River National Forest generally allows dogs on trails, they must be kept on a leash. Given the challenging nature of this long gravel cycling route, its high altitude, and mixed terrain, it might not be ideal for all dogs. Consider your dog's fitness and comfort with such conditions before bringing them along.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other paths. You will encounter parts of the Gore Valley Trail, Tenmile Recpath, Village Streamwalk, North Recreation Path, and Turkey Creek Road, among others.

Yes, the historic towns of Minturn, Colorado and Red Cliff Bridge are excellent places to stop for food and water. These charming towns offer an opportunity to refuel and take a break from the ride.