The boutique tour is back for its fourth edition, and the new route through Crested Butte and the Black Canyon looks equal parts stunning and suffocating.
There are bike tours where you sip espresso and soft-pedal through vineyards, and then there are bike tours where your lungs scream for mercy at 9,000 feet. Colorado’s Ride falls firmly into the second category, and for 2026, they are leaning into the ascents.
The organizers of the five-day road tour announced today that this year’s edition, running August 10–14, will feature a brand-new route that showcases some of the most dramatic terrain the Rockies have to offer.
For the fourth edition, the tour is going full “Central Rockies.” The peloton will roll out from the wildflower capital of Crested Butte, at nearly 9,000 feet, before embarking on a loop that hits Buena Vista, Salida, and Gunnison.
The crown jewel of the new map is a ride toward the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. If you have never ridden it, imagine the Grand Canyon, but steeper, darker, and with a paved road running along the rim that makes you question your fear of heights.
Colorado’s Ride is capping participation at 350 entrants. According to director Bill Plock, the smaller size is a deliberate choice to foster a “moving community” vibe rather than a logistical nightmare. Think of it as summer camp for grimpeurs. You get fully supported rides, professional road support from the Colorado State Patrol, and camping in host communities each night.
Colorado’s Ride is presented by CommonSpirit, with proceeds benefiting local non-profits.