Drivers traveling through south-central Colorado next week will need to share the road with a large group of cyclists. Some 300 cyclists will tour highways and county roads through the region from Aug. 10–14 as part of the five-day bicycle event Colorado's Ride, the Colorado Department of Transportation announced in a travel advisory issued Monday.
The tour will take place between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. each day on Colorado Highway 135, U.S. Highway 285, Colorado 291, U.S. 50 over Monarch Pass, and related Forest Service and county roads in Chaffee, Gunnison, and Saguache counties. No highway closures are planned.
The five-day route traces a loop through the mountain communities of the region. On Monday, riders will travel Forest Service and county roads from Crested Butte to Buena Vista via Colorado Highway 135. Aug. 11 takes the group from Buena Vista to Salida along U.S. Highway 285, Colorado 291, and county roads. Aug. 12 crosses Monarch Pass on U.S. 50 from Salida to Gunnison. Aug. 13 continues on U.S. 50 from Gunnison to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and Aug. 14 returns the group to Crested Butte via Colorado 135 and county roads.
State officials used the advisory to remind both drivers and cyclists of their legal responsibilities. "Summer is a popular time for cyclists and motorists to take to the roads and explore the beauty of our state," said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. "We want to make this a safe event for everyone. Drivers and cyclists are urged to limit distractions, stay alert and follow the laws designed to keep all road users safe."
Colorado State Patrol Chief Col. Matthew C. Packard noted that bicyclists must stay to the right, not impede traffic, and use caution, while drivers need to share the road and practice the Three Foot Law, which requires drivers to give bicyclists at least three feet of space when passing. In some situations, motorists may need to cross a double yellow line when safe to ensure the clearance, and if oncoming traffic prevents the three-foot buffer, drivers should slow down and wait behind the cyclists until it is clear to pass.
Law enforcement officers will monitor traffic flow, but the overall responsibility for rider safety lies with each participant, according to the advisory. Cyclists are advised to ride as far right as possible, single file and with the flow of traffic, use hand signals, and wear a properly fitted helmet.
Exact course details are available at coloradosride.com, and travelers can check road conditions and travel information at COtrip.org.
Motoring conditions along the affected routes during the Aug. 10–14 window bear watching for commuters and tourists navigating the mountain corridors of Chaffee, Gunnison, and Saguache counties.