This stage has been postponed until 2027.
Start time time: TBD
The day begins at the intersection of Trickle Park Rd and Surface Creek Rd, just north of Park Reservoir in Grand Mesa National Forest.
Estimated arrival time: TBD
The stage concludes at Redstone Park in the town of Redstone, just off-route.
This is a strenuous stage for experienced mountain bikers looking for a challenge. While there aren't any huge ascents, the route is constantly moving up or down, generally hovering between 10,000 and 8,000 feet. The first half follows trails through Grand Mesa National Forest, including Cedar Mesa Trail, High Trail, and Owens Creek Trail, as well as a series of forest roads.
At 79 Rd, the route transitions from Grand Mesa to White River National Forest. The vast majority of the second half of the day follows forest roads, leading past Haystack Mountain Campground, Twin Peaks, and Assignation Ridge. Finally, you'll reemerge on pavement at CO 133 in Redstone.
Gathering - Redstone General Store - Details TBA
Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at Road 127 (13.7 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. Other resupply points TBD, but will likely be limited.
Take Heed: There are few viable access points on this long stage, so you need to be equipped with enough supplies to get you through.