Boulder Colorado: America’s Cycling Mecca

If you are looking for the most challenging riding possible in America or are just interested in a cycling vacation, Boulder, CO, offers an unmatched density of hard climbs. The roads are quiet and safe, in great condition, packed with cyclists, and easily accessible to town. If you get tired just turn your bike east and coast back to the valley.

Factor in the altitude, starting at a mile-high, and you will find your limits. And don’t even bother thinking you have a shot at any Strava KOMs here. The level of talent in Boulder is world class. In fact, there are very good odds you will run into World Tour riders on the road, at the coffee shop, or on a group ride.

Below are a few routes I’ve done that show just how much vertical you can pack into a “relatively” short distance. Take your pick routes with 60, 100, or 150 miles and lots and lots of climbing.

The Fearsome Foursome, a “metric century” with 10,000 feet of climbing.

A century ride with 15,000 vertical

A “Classics Distance” ride with 20,000 feet of climbing.