Buena Vista: Ride 18 - Castle Rock Gulch Loop
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Someone once asked me whether a particular route was a “date ride.” Well, this one certainly is. Pack a lunch and plan a leisurely outing through some of Colorado’s
most beautiful country. The biggest question is whether to ride the loop clockwise or counter-clockwise. The climb is a little longer clockwise, but you’ll be in shade for a good chunk of it. Counter-clockwise is a tiny bit steeper, but the road surface is slightly better. One thing to consider: while descending through trees may be more appealing to some, in the heat of summer I’d rather climb in shade. Your choice.
most beautiful country. The biggest question is whether to ride the loop clockwise or counter-clockwise. The climb is a little longer clockwise, but you’ll be in shade for a good chunk of it. Counter-clockwise is a tiny bit steeper, but the road surface is slightly better. One thing to consider: while descending through trees may be more appealing to some, in the heat of summer I’d rather climb in shade. Your choice.
Ride length: 14.8 miles
Ride type: lollipop-loop (clockwise)
Riding time: 1.5 hours
Surface: dirt road
Elevations: start/end 8,900’; max 9,720’; min 8,900’
Total climbing: gain/loss 950’
Aerobic level: easy (some climbing, but not sustained or steep)
Technical level: 1
Season: April into November
USGS Quadrangle: Castle Rock Gulch
Ride type: lollipop-loop (clockwise)
Riding time: 1.5 hours
Surface: dirt road
Elevations: start/end 8,900’; max 9,720’; min 8,900’
Total climbing: gain/loss 950’
Aerobic level: easy (some climbing, but not sustained or steep)
Technical level: 1
Season: April into November
USGS Quadrangle: Castle Rock Gulch