The 30th annual “Ride for the Pass” bike race will be held in Aspen, Colorado, this Saturday, May 18. The race is organized each year by the Independence Pass Foundation which was founded in 1989 and is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year. There are two options for the race, a competitive timed one and a fun, recreational shorter course. The 10-mile competitive race starts at 10:30 a.m. while the 2-mile recreational race starts at 10:40 a.m.
Like each year, the race starts at the Winter Gate 5 miles east of Aspen on Highway 82, and the finish for the 10-mile competitive race will be at Independence Ghost Town. There is also the option for a recreational distance of just over 2 miles which finishes at Weller Lake. The 10-mile competitive race covers a climb of approximately 2,300 feet in altitude, ending at an elevation of 10,800 feet at Independence Ghost Town.
Starting fees for the competitive race are $45 for adults, $25 for kids under 18,and $75 for families for the 10-mile ride to Independence Ghost Town and for e-bikers. For the recreational 2-mile race to Weller Lake, starting fees are $25 for adults, $15 for kids under 18, and $40 for families. Registrations are open until Friday, May 17, at 5:00 p.m. There will be no registration avaialble on the day.
All riders to Independence Ghost Town will be timed and have a chance to win prizes. The timing of the 10-mile race is done by means of timing chips in the bibs, except for e-bikers, who will be untimed. The race typically takes between 40 minutes and two hours. The course sweep will start at 1:00 p.m. and race organizers aim to have everyone off the course by 1:30 p.m. The 2-mile race will not be timed. At the conclusion of the race, there will be a barbecue with a raffle at the starting line at the Winter Gate.
There is limited parking available at the start line 5 miles east of Aspen, at the pullout across from Difficult Campground (3.5 miles from Aspen), and along Highway 82. It is recommend competitors car pool or park in Aspen and ride their bikes to the start line.
Please respect the Road Rules:
- Wear a helmet.
- Watch for water, ice and other hazards – rough spots and water are marked by signs or cones.
- Be aware of “Road Hazard” and “Wet Pavement” signs.
- Number plate must be visible on the front of your bike.
- If you have any problems, please pull off the road.
- The first aid stations are at Weller and Lincoln Creek.
- Stay in line at the Finish Line if you want to be timed.
- Obey the Yellow Line – watch out for two-way traffic as some riders will be descending as others are still ascending.
- Watch out for the motorcycle rider who will be sweeping the course from time to time.
- Pass on the left – pull over to the right for faster traffic.
- Watch out for uphill traffic and pedestrians during your descent – control your speed.
The Independence Pass Ride happens before the pass is open to cars, so riders get to enjoy a car-free ride on Independence Pass. Funds raised will go to the Independence Pass Foundation
