Durango is pretty well-known for its cycling; cyclists from all over the world make their way to and through Durango as they pedal Colorado’s infamous roads and scenic trails. I mean, heck, the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic has been held in Durango for 46 years!

This year, Ride the Rockies will stop in Durango June 12-13, adding to Durango’s cache as a cycling haven. Every June, 2,000 cyclists set out on a six- or seven-day ride across the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Although the route changes every year to show off the state’s myriad mountain communities and Colorado’s spectacular scenery, the Ride the Rockies route always climbs a few challenging mountain passes with daily treks averaging 70 miles.

This year — the event’s 32nd anniversary — Ride the Rockies added the town of Ridgway, bringing the tour’s total number of towns in that time to 49, including Aspen, Copper Mountain, Estes Park, Glenwood Springs, Steamboat Springs, Telluride, Vail and Winter Park.

The popular ride receives about 2,300 applications every year, and selects 2,000 through a lottery registration. In addition to the 2,000 cyclists, the event includes another 500 volunteers, support staff, family and friends. Last year, cyclists from 49 states and nine countries rode in the tour, and the oldest cyclist was 82 and the youngest was only nine years old!

All proceeds from Ride The Rockies benefit Colorado nonprofits through The Denver Post Community Foundation.

If you’ll be in town to catch the action, you’ll feel right at home at the Durango Quality Inn during your stint in Durango. The Quality Inn Durango is on Main Avenue just a couple of minutes north of downtown Durango. Book your room now before we’re all booked up!