Motorists in southwest Colorado are being advised to stay alert and share the road with approximately 175 cyclists participating in the annual Colorado’s Ride event from August 18 to 22. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Colorado State Patrol have issued this advisory as riders travel on highways and county roads across La Plata, San Juan, Archuleta, and Mineral Counties.
“This is the third year of welcoming Colorado’s Ride to our region, and we want to make it another safe and successful event for all roadway users. Please, always make a point to limit distractions, stay alert and follow the speed limit,” said Transportation Director Julie Constan.
There will be no highway closures during the five-day event, but drivers are encouraged to watch for cyclists each day between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. The route includes major stretches such as US Highway 550 from Durango to Silverton on Monday; various loops around Durango using US 550, US 160, CO 172, and county roads on Tuesday; US 160 and CO 151 from Durango to Pagosa Springs on Wednesday; US 160 from Pagosa Springs to Wolf Creek Pass on Thursday; and finally returning via US 160, CO 151, and CO 172 from Pagosa back to Durango on Friday.
More details about daily times and course routes can be found at the Colorado’s Ride Course Description Webpage.
Each year, CDOT works closely with CSP and event organizers to promote safety for both motorists and cyclists by encouraging responsible travel behavior and adherence to traffic laws throughout the duration of the ride.
