Pikes Peak
Starting from the Pikes Peak Gateway you’re just a few metres lower in elevation than the top of the Stelvio, and that’s even before you get going! Winding your way deeper into the Pike National Forest the spectacle of the mountain starts to unfold before your eyes. Crystal Reservoir gives a moment of respite before the road pitches up once more and you join the Hill Climb course, and the 156 bends that lie ahead from here to the summit. The gradient may only average 6.5% but that’s not what this climb is all about. The oxygen starved atmosphere makes the going much harder. Pacing is crucial, as is staying well fueled and hydrated over its 19 miles (30.5km).
Region: Colorado
City: Cascade-Chipita Park
Distance: 29.42 km
Elevation Gain: 1976 m
Elevation Loss: 51 m
Difficulty: 1773 (Extreme)
FIETS Index: 13.68 FIETS
Avg Grade: 6.58 %
Max cat climb: HC
Min elevation: 2374 m
Max elevation: 4300 m
Ride Category: Epic Climb