 |
| Independence Pass, the final BIG climb of Denver-to-Aspen! |
1) Due to concerns about the safety of the current course, specifically regarding worsening traffic along US-285 (the major east-to-west corridor for the current course), we will NOT be riding the Joe Lookingbill-designed course in 2015. We will instead be using a route that parallels the I-70 corridor, including Lookout Mountain and Loveland Pass to Copper Mountain. From Copper Mountain, the course will venture south along CO-91 over Fremont Pass to Leadville, then along US-24 toward Twin Lakes. The route will then turn west along CO-82 to climb Independence Pass before reaching Aspen and the cycling haven of Woody Creek. We feel this course change is essential to keep the event safe for all participants! Although the new course avoids the highly-trafficked US-285, it does present additional climbing...nearly 2,200 feet, for a grand total of 15,965 feet in 180 miles. But we do feel the new course will be a much safer and a more enjoyable experience for all participants. For a sneak-peak of the new course: 2015 Denver-to-Aspen (prelim. route)
2) This event was originally slated to be run in brevet (i.e., unsupported) format. Several individuals have graciously stepped forward to provide event support for this year's ride. So the 2015 Denver-to-Aspen will be fully supported with RMCC-provided support vehicles. Thanks to everyone who has volunteered!! As with all other Triple Crown events, participants may choose to ride with a personal support vehicle as well.
3) The event will still start at 4:00 am sharp. On August 29, 2015, civil twilight begins at 5:57 am, meaning the first two hours of the ride will be ridden entirely in the dark. Civil twilight ends at 8:04 pm. In traditional Denver-to-Aspen fashion, we do NOT want riders descending Independence Pass in the dark. Participants must finish by the end of civil twilight, 8:04 pm. Riders will therefore have 16 hours, 4 minutes (>11.20 mph) to successfully complete this event and receive Colorado Triple Crown credit. Consider this a "race against the sun!"
Please pay attention to this blog for additional changes. Come out and experience the final Colorado Triple Crown event of 2015!
