Competitors are gearing up to take on the Rocky Mountains this August for the USA Pro Cycling Challenge. One hundred and thirty five of the world’s best riders will endure long climbs up to high altitudes in this adrenaline packed event. For the first time, Telluride has been chosen as the final stop in the first stage of the 683 mile course that begins in Durango and ends in Denver, Colorado.

The inaugural race held in 2011 was said to be the most challenging bike race ever held on American Soil. With nearly 1 million spectators and broadcasts all over the country, it was also said to be one of the biggest cycling events in US history. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to stand on the roadside and watch this epic race roll through one of Colorado’s most gorgeous destinations!

The town of Telluride is overjoyed to get to host such an awesome race. Nestled in a box canyon and surrounded on three sides by towering peaks of the jagged San Juan Mountains, this part of the course is sure to be one of the most dazzling for the cyclists to ride through. Participants will begin Stage 1 on August 20^th in Durango and end in Telluride. On the 21^st, they will move onto Stage 2 which will bring them up through Montrose and into Crested Butte. All together, there are twelve host cities that riders will pass through in just seven days.

Last year, cyclers rode a total of 518 miles and through 11 host cities.  This year, they will conquer nine mountain passes, an additional 160 miles, and 12 host cities. Winners of last year’s race are USA’s own Levi Leipheimer in first place, Vandevelde in 2^nd, and Van Garderen in third.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the energy and excitement right in Telluride! There will be a Finish Festival in Town Park on August 20th from 11am to 6pm with local music, sponsor/merchandise vendors, food vendors, and beer! Entry is free, and the race can be watched on the big screen from the park.

**Businesses and non-profits are invited to be involved with this special event through the purchase of a vendor booth.

Spaces available are limited and applications are accepted on a first come first serve basis. Applications will also need to be approved by the USA Pro Challenge, so please register early.**

If you would like to stand roadside, parking will be very limited but Main Street's central location is just a short walk from most everywhere in town. The route enters Telluride at Society Turn then through the roundabout onto Colorado Ave, heads north on Townsend St, east on Columbia Ave, south on Willow St, and then back on Colorado Ave for a westward sprint to the finish line at the Courthouse!

Feel free to contact us regarding where to stay and what to do. Special Pro Cycling lodging rates are available for racers, families, and fans! Visit our Facebook page or call us at (877) 507 9695 for more information. Alternatively, fill out a Lodging Inquiry form and we will respond within 24 hours. See you in August!

 Race Schedule:

• August 20: Durango to Telluride
• August 21: Montrose to Crested Butte
• August 22: Gunnison to Aspen
• August 23: Aspen to Beaver Creek/Vail Valley
• August 24: Breckenridge to Colorado Springs
• August 25: Golden to Boulder
• August 26: Time Trial - Denver