Minturn, Red Cliff, and Vail Pass loop from Vail

No, this loop is considered difficult and is not suitable for beginners. It's a challenging touring bicycle route requiring very good fitness due to its length of approximately 70 km (43.6 miles) and significant elevation gain of about 1,385 meters (4,544 feet). Much of the ride takes place at high altitudes, with Vail Pass summiting over 10,600 feet and Shrine Pass reaching over 11,000 feet, which also adds to the challenge.

The route offers diverse terrain, combining paved roads, dedicated bike paths, and a significant gravel section. You'll find well-maintained paved surfaces and the excellent Vail Pass Recpath. A key feature is the gravel Shrine Pass Road, which connects Red Cliff to the summit of Vail Pass. This gravel section makes the route more suitable for bikes with wider tires (30mm+) or gravel bikes, though it is doable on a road bike.

The best time to cycle this loop is typically from late spring through early fall, generally June to September. During these months, the weather is most favorable, and the high-altitude sections, including Shrine Pass Road and Vail Pass, are usually free of snow. Summer offers lush green scenery and wildflowers, but be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms.

Starting from Vail, you can find parking in various public parking structures within the village. Many cyclists choose to park at the Vail Transportation Center or other public garages, which provide convenient access to the bike paths leading out of town towards Minturn.

This route primarily follows roads and dedicated bike paths, including sections within the White River National Forest. While dogs are generally allowed on leash on most forest roads and trails, specific regulations may apply to certain paved bike paths or within towns like Vail and Minturn. Always keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other cyclists and traffic.

No specific cycling permits are generally required for this route. While parts of the loop pass through the White River National Forest, there are typically no entrance fees for general recreation along forest roads or bike paths. However, always check the latest regulations from the US Forest Service for any updates, especially if you plan to camp or use specific facilities.

This loop is packed with scenic highlights. You'll pass through charming mountain towns like Minturn and Red Cliff. Shrine Pass Road offers truly amazing views of Mount of the Holy Cross, along with green, quiet sections featuring creeks, waterfalls, and wildflowers. The Vail Pass Recpath provides fantastic scenery with views of the Gore and Tenmile Ranges, and Copper Mountain Ski Resort, often traversing meadows and high alpine foliage.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other paths. Notably, it follows significant portions of the Gore Valley Trail and the Tenmile Recpath. You'll also encounter smaller segments of paths like the Village Streamwalk and the North Recreation Path, especially around Vail.

Given the route's difficulty, length, and high altitude, you should bring plenty of water and snacks, appropriate cycling gear for varying weather conditions (layers are key), sun protection, a repair kit, and a first-aid kit. A bike with wider tires (30mm+) or a gravel bike is recommended for the Shrine Pass gravel section. Always carry a map or GPS device, as cell service can be spotty in some areas.

Yes, you'll find options for food and refreshments in the towns along the route. Minturn and Red Cliff offer local cafes and restaurants, perfect for a mid-ride stop. Vail, your starting and ending point, has numerous dining establishments to choose from.

This loop is quite long and challenging, with an estimated duration of around 5 hours and 37 minutes of pure cycling time. However, factoring in stops for rest, food, photos, and enjoying the scenery, most cyclists should plan for a full day, likely 6-8 hours, to comfortably complete the entire 70 km (43.6 miles) route.