Pre MT Evans

Posted by whitey on 7/16/2007 on whitey's blog

I feel like such a lamo preparing for tomorrow's training ride today. Normally I just do what I have to do but tomorrow involves driving to my destination and beating the afternoon thunder and lighting storms. It will be my last open day for awhile so I figure I better make the best of it and go do a ride I have never done but always wanted to do. The highest paved road in America which winds its way up to the top of Mt. Evans is what I choose. I’m going to start at Idaho Springs so the ride will be 56 miles and 7,000 feet of climbing.

I can’t wait for the hallucinations that will probably start at about 13,500 feet and only get worse until I hit 14,264 feet at the top. One of my friends said he was riding as hard as he could and with the lack of oxygen he started seeing little green men bouncing around the road which looked like a lake. I’ve also been told that even though it’s supposed to be 93 degrees tomorrow, I should plan for snow at the top.

I’m packing all my things right now because after I drop the boys off at camp and get my morning coffee I’m riding to 14,264 feet. When I’m done, I’ll go right back to pick the kids up from camp like nothing happened. Man I love Colorado!! I just packed my camera so I should have a few pictures tomorrow night

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4 comments

steve outing says:

I love that ride, and try to do Mt. Evans at least once a year. But my friends and I usually start at Echo Lake, so only 14.5 miles up and a bit under 4,000'. I suspect you'll do the ride from Idaho Springs in the same time (or less than) it takes me and other mere mortals to do it from Echo Lake. 8^) ... No hallucinations ever for me, but pushing hard up that hill I can just imagine what you might see!

Enjoy..

by steve outing on !b

whitey says:

Yeah, that"s a sweet ride. Thanks for warning us about the $3 charge in the route you posted. The lady working today waived it for me but at least I was prepared.

by whitey on !b

steve outing says:

Actually, you can get around that. Say that you're only riding the road and won't hang out at the parking lot or use the toilets at the top and they'll waive the fee. Some sort of brouhaha over whether they can legitimately charge people for driving or riding on the road.

http://cbs4denver.com/getaways/local_story_163094355.html

by steve outing on !b

Barry says:

Love the blog especially the description of the descent. From Va., rented a bike in Idaho Springs on Sunday (7/29) and rode up and back. I feel your pain. And hypothermia. Seek your permission to link to your blog. - Barry

by Barry (not verified) on !b