US
September 2019
*Total price includes 15% gratuities for the local guides
This is a fully supported trip with all vehicle shuttles between the different rides included. The vans are comfortable and we will be towing a bike trailer between our locations. Roof racks will used for some gear. The number of vehicles used will depend on final client numbers.
Bike hire (if required), pre and post nights accommodation, meals not outlined in the detailed itinerary, international flights to USA. Gratuities to restaurants. (Note included in the trip cost is 15% gratuities to our local bike guides)
Grade: D
Average 4-5 hours of riding per day, 8-9 hours on longer days.
If you are an active, healthy person who exercises on a regular basis and has a love for mountains and biking, then this is the trip for you.
All the nights on this trip are spent in a tent, so it also helps if you like camping!
Altitude
A lot the trip is above 1700 meters in altitude. The highest pass we cross is 3500 meters. The air is noticeably thinner higher up and depending on the individual, effects can make an appearance on from 2000m onwards. This may be as minor as a mild headache, feeling a bit lethargic and shortness of breath after physical exertion. However, it is very important to acclimatise slowly to give the body a chance to adapt to the change of conditions. We have designed the itinerary with this in mind. Feel free to discuss this with our team or consult with your doctor. Adequate hydration is also very important and the advice is that you need to be drinking at least 4 litres a day on the tour.
Health and Hygiene
It pays to be vigilant around food and with personal hygiene to avoid illness or upset stomachs - both on tour and leading up to the tour. Keep some hand sanitiser and wipes in your day pack. Consult with a travel health clinic at least a month before travelling to see if you require any vaccinations.
This is a camping trip staying in a variety of campsites near the best riding on offer in Colorado. Twin share with someone of the same gender. Your own tent can be requested at an extra single supplement charge of US$150. Contact us if you would like us to book your pre-night's accommodation in Denver. We recommend the Mile High House, 1445 High St, Denver.
Main Mountain Biking Personal Equipment:
Personal Packing List for Camp and Travelling:
Other Personal Items:
Group gear provided by Active Earth Adventures:
Optional Suggested Items:
Contact us to discuss hiring a bike if required
While on the trip all meals are provided from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 10. A variety of delicious camping meals will be on offer as well as the occasional meal out. Alcohol is an additional cost. Bring your special power bars or other food you need to keep your human engine trucking along - we supply plenty of regular snacks. Please advise any special dietary requirements at the time of booking.
Michelle McConnon - Active Earth Adventures Tour Leader
Michelle will be joining this trek as the Active Earth Adventures Tour Leader. As an avid mountain biker and outdoor enthusiast she will ensure everyone has an excellent time. Michelle and Graham Frith (see below) have designed this trip with the assistance of our local operators in Colorado. Becky Gardner, a pro rider for Kona Bikes and sponsored by FOX and Smith Optics, has personally worked very closely with us on this itinerary and invested incredible amounts of time to ensure this trip is a success. Expect an unforgettable trip!
Graham Frith - Guide
Graham has a lifetime of experience teaching, instructing and has guided for Active Earth for many years. Graham (a.k.a "Grum") has recently returned after spending two and a half years cycling around the whole planet raising awareness for prostate cancer. Grum also teaches wilderness first aid and risk management and is an avid mountain biker. A great person to have on our trip.
Local mountain bike guides
Our on the ground trip leaders provide support and will focus on the details so we don't have to. The trip will have two/three leaders for the group. Not only have they guided thousands of miles on bikes but are excellent at cooking healthy and hearty meals and are there to help during camp set up. Top priority is health and safety for all our guests as well as as showing you a good time. Past clients love our leaders and give them a 97% rating for all round quality service.
What will the climate be like in Colorado in September?
We picked mid-September as the Autumn (Fall) colours are spectacular and the weather is settled. The nights can be cooler though and the temperature can fall as low as 1-5°C at the camps. During the day it can get up to 25°C but more often around 15-20°C. Clothing layers will be the key as the altitude differences experienced in a single day can expose you to a big temperature range.
You will be asked to fill out a disclaimer before you begin the tour. You must follow the instructions of your guide at all times.
Payment
For bookings four or more months in advance of the departure a 30% deposit can be paid with the remainder due 126 days prior to your trip (14 May 2017). For bookings within 126 days of the departure (after 14 May 2017), full payment is required.
Cancellations
More than 126 days prior to departure – 70% refund
96 to 125 days prior to departure – 50% refund
66 to 95 days prior to departure – 25% refund
Less than 65 days prior to departure – NO REFUND
We suggest clients take out a comprehensive travel insurance.
World Nomads Travel Insurance provides online quotes.
Notes
Interested in a somewhat different tour offered by Active Earth Adventures? What about Peru?
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