Overview: Meet in Salida for a pre‑trip briefing before crossing the Continental Divide at Monarch Pass and beginning four days of high‑altitude, backcountry riding through some of Colorado’s most spectacular terrain. This guided tour combines alpine passes, historic mining roads, flowing singletrack, and sweeping valley descents—ideal for experienced dual‑sport and adventure riders who want a true Rocky Mountain experience.

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Day 1 — Salida to Lake City (via Sargents, Los Pinos Pass, Mill Creek Pass) Gather in Salida for a pre‑trip safety briefing, then ride over Monarch Pass into Sargents to start the route. We’ll climb Black Sage Pass, swing past Waunita Hot Springs, and traverse the historic Los Pinos Pass across the Cochetopa Basin, with panoramic views of Lion’s Head, Cooper Mountain, and Cochetopa Dome. The route continues through the Powderhorn Wilderness, over Mill Creek Pass, and descends into picturesque Lake City to close out the first day. Terrain: alpine passes, forest service roads, and scenic descents.

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Day 2 — The Alpine Loop: Lake City to Silverton (via Cinnamon or Engineer Pass) An early start lets you experience the world‑famous Alpine Loop. Choose County Road 20 to Engineer Pass (12,966 ft) or County Road 30 to Cinnamon Pass (12,630 ft) for high‑mountain riding—breathtaking views, technical trail sections, and historic mining sites including the Ute/Ulay mine and Mayflower Mill. The route circles the Redcloud Peaks and the San Juan Mountains, then continues southwest on County Road 2 to historic Silverton. Note: these passes receive heavier moto traffic—ride responsibly and stay with your guide.

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Day 3 — Silverton to Creede (via Stoney Pass, Rio Grande valley) Depart Silverton east on County Road 2, pass through Howardsville, and climb to Stoney Pass. After a technical, rocky descent, ride into the Rio Grande National Forest and follow the headwaters of the Rio Grande. The east‑side terrain opens into steeper, flowing sections with views of the Rio Grande Reservoir before paralleling one of the San Juans’ most iconic river valleys. We finish the day in the historic town of Creede.

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Day 4 — Creede to Salida (via San Luis Valley, Poncha Pass) Leave Creede and ride across the vast San Luis Valley—the world’s largest high‑alpine valley—enjoying sweeping Sangre de Cristo views. Join US‑285 and head north across the ancient lake bed, passing ranches and farmland en route to Poncha Pass. Descend into the Arkansas River Valley and return to Salida for a post‑trip debrief and wrap‑up at the shop.