This is the scenic ride offered on Sunday morning to those wanting to get in a ride before the Closing Ceremonies. Accessed from the town of Aspen or from reserved parking lots at Buttermilk or Aspen Highlands, this out-and-back, unsupervised ride takes place on relatively gravel-free asphalt with a very limited number of vehicles driven by local residents or slow moving sightseers. The paved road is often ridden by local bicycle enthusiasts and has several “share the road” signs that are posted and obeyed by the locals.

The total distance of this event is about 30.5 miles. This road ride is a steady climb that follows Castle Creek and offers a mere glimpse of scenic opportunities associated with the festival as it views seven (7) high peak including Hayden, Leahy, Cathedral, Castle Star, and Taylor. The three (3) mountains in view along this ride are Pearl, Bencroft, and McArthur. The riding surface levels around mile 10 mile of the 13.1 mile leg and allows you to gaze at the huge faces of granite at the end. In addition, this ride provides all with a chance to coast practically all the way back to town.