September 15, 2009, Greenhorn Valley View, Colorado City, CO

 

The Frontier Pathways Scenic & Historic Byway, part of the National Scenic Byways program, hosted the 1st Annual Bike with Pike Westcliffe Adventure on Saturday, September 12th. This charity event, which benefits and improves the byways and communities they serve, featured a 100-mile century, a 69-mile metric century, and an 8-mile family ride.

Approximately 120 cyclists braved the chilly mountain weather Saturday to participate in this event that began in Westcliffe. Riders in the 100-mile century traveled along the scenic and historic byway from Westcliffe to Colorado City and back, accumulating 9,000 feet in total elevation according to ride officials, but riders reported 10,500 feet in elevation gain. Riders in the metric century rode from Westcliffe to San Isabel and back accumulating 5,900 feet. And the 8 mile family ride encircled the old mining district north of Silver Cliff.

The Greenhorn Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted the 50 mile turn-around for the 100-mile century event at Greenhorn Meadows Park. Sara Blackhurst, Executive Director for the Chamber, along with Chamber board member Dr. Kin Snyder and several volunteers set up the turn-around station and greeted cyclists as they arrived at Greenhorn Meadows Park.

The first riders, Bill Grey and Paul Murphy of Pueblo, arrived at the turn-around station at 10:13 a.m., two hours and thirty seven minutes after they began. Steve Martin of Parker, Trever Ghee of Colorado Springs, and Jeff Wheelock also of Colorado Springs arrived two minutes later. In all, thirty three riders made the trip to the Colorado City half way point; which served as a refueling and rest station for cyclists before they began their trip back up the mountain. A variety of snacks and drinks were available to provide riders the much needed energy to complete the ride.

Participants in the 8-mile family ride were treated to a presentation on the history of mining in the Silver Cliff area by Mel Porth. The same riders also got a tour and presentation of the Silver Cliff processing facility by Jim Cole.

Bill Zwick, Frontier Pathways board member, said this was a “good first ride” as they came very close to their goal with regards to the number of riders, and “no accidents or injuries were reported.” It was a “very challenging ride” for our riders added Zwick. Cyclists also enjoyed the ride from Westcliffe to Colorado City. Bill Gosch of Ft. Collins, a seasoned century rider, noted this is “the most beautiful ride I have ever been on.”

Bob Tobin, Chairman of Frontier Pathways, said riders were “very pleased with the volunteers, the tone of the ride, and the overall adventure.” One rider described the ride as “extremely challenging with screaming downhill rides.” Tobin also reported that riders clocked speeds ranging from 40 mph to 55 mph down hill. Tobin wanted to thank all the volunteers and support staff; such as, local fire departments, EMS crews, the sheriff’s department, state police, and sag wagons, and those who contributed financially for all their effort and support.

If you missed out on the fun and adventure this year do not fear, the Bike with Pike Westcliffe adventure will take place again next year with even more ride options for participants. There is even talk of adding a mountain bike ride, the Fat Tire, across the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

To learn more about the Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byways visit them online at frontierpathways.org.