The day begins in Montezuma.

The stage concludes at Citizens Park in Idaho Springs.

START TIME CHANGED: 7:45 sign in, 8:00 departure

The second half of this day may be rerouted to avoid Saxon Mountain using a bike path from Georgetown to Idaho Springs if some cyclists sign up or our hiker wants that, or if the afternoon weather is bad.

If the weather looks bad on Argentine Pass we will not attempt it.

Today involves two significant ascents. The first is particularly important, as Argentine Pass marks the highest point on the entire ADT--13,182 feet. You'll make that crossing 8 miles into the stage, so have an extra coffee before you hit the road.

Nearly 5000 feet of descent follow, leaving the CDT and instead proceeding on a series of forest roads. The ADT sweeps westward, then doubles back along the south side of I70, with the town of Silver Plume sitting just across. A bike trail runs alongside the freeway to historic Georgetown. If you see a train robbery taking place, it's probably a reenactment. 

And now it's time for the second ascent, as you climb Saxon Mountain Rd out of town, passing through a long series of switchbacks. A series of forest roads bring you back down the other side, and eventually to the outskirts of Idaho Springs.

Support: A support vehicle will be accessible at Argentine Pass Trailhead (5.8 miles), Silver Plume Depot (18.8 miles), and Georgetown (21.4 miles). Water will be available to top off bottles, along with all necessary participant gear. Food is available for purchase in Silver Plume, Georgetown, and Idaho Springs.

Take Heed: The crossing of Argentine Pass is high elevation, exposed, and conditions can change quickly. Experienced hikers and trail runners are recommended for this crossing.