A Carol and Walt Russell ride.

The weather should be 80 degrees, mostly sunny and 5-10 mph winds - PERFECT. Could be the last day of great weather?

I expect most riders will average 11-14 mph.

The middle of the ride goes into a gentle part of the mountains from mile 19-29. The climb up is mostly gentle upgrade and downgrade-very relaxing. The toughest part is about 2-3 short to medium length 10-13% hills (maybe a tiny 14-15% section??). The last 4 miles are downgrade. This is my recollection of the ride. I really enjoyed the mostly gentle mountains. The first 19 miles and last 20 miles are the usual terrain we do in the area.

There is a convenience store at mile 29/30 in Fairfield coming off the mountain, sub & sandwich shop or a lodge with a huge outside deck before we get to Ski Liberty (Taverna 5450-on Fairfield Rd before L on Sanders). The group and individuals can decide. There is also a Rutters in Emittsburg at mile 42 (after passing the Glider Field in reverse order). Bring an energy bar to eat at the base of the mountain at mile 19 to carry you to lunch (optional stop off route at mile 19 in Fairfield but too early for most of us).

So, I repeat- I have never cycled a long mountain climb as gentle as this one (2-3 steep sections near the top). It is a desolate beautiful area and it would be a shame not to try it at least once. 

All paces are welcome. I will be doing about a 12mph pace probably in the back with a riding buddy.

I will bring lots of formatted cue sheets.

Enjoy!