Colorado Biking New!
- Durango’s colorful historic center, where the region’s vibrant railroad era comes alive
- Tackle two daunting mountain passes: Coal Bank Pass and Molas Divide
- Idyllic Telluride, set amid North America's greatest concentration of 14,000-foot peaks
- An unforgettable century ride from the mountains to the high desert
- Old West charm: stay in two hotels listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Silver Mining Towns of the San Juan Mountains
If you’re the breed of cyclist who lives for climbs that others balk at, this may be one of your life-list trips. Think heart-pounding ascents and exhilarating descents. Big elevation. Big mileage. Showstopping scenery that’s epic in its diversity - huge snow-covered peaks and sawtooth spires, lush alpine meadows, red-rock canyons and rugged high desert. And a human history as rich as the early silver mines that helped shape it. It’s truly a peak experience!
Day 1 Durango's colorful historic center, where the region's vibrant railroad era comes alive 
Your ride in the Animas Valley is highlighted by grand and glorious views of the San Juan Mountains.
Day 2 Tackle two mountain passes - Coal Bank Pass and Molas Divide - both at nearly 11,000 feet The legendary Million Dollar Highway is named for the low-grade gold ore in its roadbed, though you'll insist it's named for the million dollar views Mosey down the boardwalks of Silverton, soaking up the town's authentic Old West ambience.
Days 3-4 Idyllic and captivating Telluride, set amid North America's greatest concentration of 14,000-foot peaks The ascent over Red Mountain Pass is the investment; your payback is a long thrilling downhill to Ouray, America's "Little Switzerland" Pedal past aspen groves and alpine meadows to meet the challenge of Dallas Divide Test your legs up lofty Lizard Head Pass, hike a glacier-carved valley or explore Telluride's stylish downtown, a National Historic Monument.
Days 5-6 An unforgettable century ride from the mountains to the high desert Welcome to red-rock country! Striated sandstone cliffs tower above as you bike the Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic Byway Enjoy a spectacular spin amid crimson hills dotted with piñon and juniper in ancient Unaweep Canyon.
Guests Reviews About This Trip
When are the words "lung-busting" synonymous with "FUN"? When you're tackling the big - and beautiful - climbs on our new trip in southwest Colorado. We've linked together our favorite towns in the region, like Silverton and Telluride, to bring you some of the most stunning scenery and epic riding in the American West.- Regional Manager, Rockies & Southwest
Premiere Inns
Strater Hotel
Durango (1 night) Feel transported back to the Victorian age at this antique-filled landmark hotel, perfectly located in the heart of town.
The Wyman Hotel & Inn
Silverton (1 night) Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this atmospheric 1902 inn exudes Old West charm and offers mountain views.
Camel's Garden Hotel
Telluride (2 nights) A contemporary resort hotel set along the San Miguel River just steps from the town center. (spa)
Gateway Canyons Kiva Lodge
Gateway (1 night) A luxurious Southwest-style hotel nestled amid the spectacular red-rock landscape of Unaweep Canyon. (pool, spa)
Montana: Glacier & Waterton Biking
The Epic Grandeur of Glacier & Waterton Lakes National Parks
Classic:
Utah: Bryce & Zion Biking
Inspiration and Adrenaline in Utah's Red-Rock Canyons
Classic:
Singles+Solos:
Utah & Arizona: Bryce, Zion & Grand Canyon Multisport New!
Adventures in the Phenomenal National Parks of Utah & Arizona
Classic:
Singles+Solos:
Wyoming: Yellowstone & Tetons Multisport New!
Discover the Wonders of Wyoming's Wild Preserves
Classic:
Singles+Solos:
This Trip Is Rated Level 3-5
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of
interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one
day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat
from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each
day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Road Bike Average | Mountain Bike Average* | Walk & Hike Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 miles | 10-15 miles | 2-5 miles |
| Level 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 16-20 miles | 5-7 miles |
| Level 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 21-25 miles | 7-9 miles |
| Level 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 26-30 miles | 9-11 miles |
| Level 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 31+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
*Mountain bikes are used in locations where the best riding is on a combination of dirt and paved roads. View trip locations
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Details coming soon!
More Recommended Trips
Other Trips
For 33 years, Backroads has been perfecting the art of active travel. We are the Colorado tour experts. See our award-winning USA biking tours, USA walking and hiking tours and USA multisport tours.
