Shelf Road 50/50 Downhill Bike Ride

MEETING TIME:          8:30 a.m.

MEETING PLACE:         Outdoor Recreation Center

                                          5136 Redtail Dr. USAFA, CO 80840 ph#(719) 333-2940/4475

TRIP DESCRIPTION:     Starting in Cripple Creek (elevation 9050 feet) and ending in Canon City (elevation 5400 feet) the Shelf Road 50/50 (SR 50/50) drops 3650 feet in elevation over its 27-mile route, but it’s not all downhill. The SR 50/50 parallels one of our most popular rides, the Phantom Canyon Downhill, but is quite different. 50% dirt and 50% road the SR 50/50 starts out on dirt roads that are tougher then those in Phantom Canyon but with a lot less washboard. Ride rolling hills trough Colorado’s history. Cool off by standing at the entrance of an abandoned mine opening and let the refrigerated air rush pass you. Some other points of interest include Window Rock, a hole eroded into 1.7 billion-year-old rock; The Shelf, a rough one-lane section above Four mile Creek; the site of the toll collector's cabin (private land); the limestone cliffs of the Shelf Road Recreation Area, popular among rock climbers; Red Canyon Park's sandstone figures; Garden Park Fossil Area, an important dinosaur graveyard discovered in 1876; the site of the West's first oil well, and possibly some Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. The second half of the ride is paved, partially downhill and usually with a tail wind. A beautiful ride that you will enjoy, and will want to do again and again.

WHAT TO BRING:        Bike, helmet (mandatory), water, sunscreen, camera, and sunglasses. Front and Dual suspension bikes are available to rent for $20 call 333-4753 to reserve.

WHAT TO WEAR:        Apparel appropriate for the sport and dress in layers. Bike gloves and padded shorts can make your ride much more comfortable. Avoid cotton clothing.  Most of all, Dress For The Weather!

POSSIBLE RISKS:        Sunburn and dehydration are the biggest threat. Dress appropriately and drink lots of water.

POSSIBLE HAZARDS:    This ride takes place on paved and four-wheel drive road so oncoming and passing cars are something to watch out for. To stay alert and be able hear traffic we ask that you leave your headsets and radios at home. Bridge crossings, steep cliffs, and holes are possible. Use caution, stay on the path and following the guide will reduce the possibility for injury. Stay with your guide and stay in control. Be sure to arrive on time for a pre-trip bike inspection.

TRIP INCLUDES:         Activity Includes: Activity includes: Transportation, Guide, Vehicle Support and Snacks. Meet at the ORC at 8:30am for a pre-trip bike inspection. Moderate fitness level and at least front suspension will make your ride more enjoyable. Expected to fill up fast! !

COST:                     $25