DENVER, Colo. (April 7, 2026) — Colorado’s Ride and the Tour of the Moon have earned national recognition, landing at No. 5 and No. 7, respectively, in USA Today’s 10Best Road Cycling Events rankings—another sign of Colorado’s growing influence as a destination for marquee riding experiences.
Announced April 7, the rankings highlight two very different events that share a common appeal: big landscapes, thoughtfully designed routes, and a distinctly Colorado blend of challenge and community.
Colorado’s Ride Continues Rapid Rise
Now in just its fourth year, Colorado’s Ride has quickly positioned itself among the country’s premier multi-day tours. The five-day, fully supported event traverses some of the state’s most iconic terrain, including climbs over Cottonwood Pass and Monarch Pass, along with a dramatic stretch above the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
The event’s intentionally limited field—around 350 riders—helps set it apart from larger tours, fostering a more intimate, communal atmosphere on and off the bike.
“We feel incredibly honored to receive this recognition in only our fourth year and to be included alongside some of the country’s most established rides,” said Ride Director Bill Plock.
The 2026 edition, scheduled for August 9–14, introduces a new route starting and finishing in Crested Butte, with overnight stops in Buena Vista, Salida, and Gunnison.
Tour of the Moon Showcases Western Colorado
If Colorado’s Ride is defined by alpine passes, the Tour of the Moon delivers something entirely different: a ride through the sculpted red rock canyons of Colorado National Monument.
Set for September 12, the one-day event offers riders a choice between a 41-mile “Classic Loop” and a 64-mile metric century, making it accessible to a wide range of abilities. The route winds through a landscape shaped over nearly two billion years, with sweeping views and sinuous roads that have long drawn cyclists to western Colorado.
The course also carries a deep connection to American cycling history, having featured in the Coors Classic and the film American Flyers.
“There is nothing like riding a bike through the awe-inspiring landscape of Colorado National Monument,” said Ride Director Connor Ratte. “We’re thrilled to provide this truly unique experience to riders of all abilities from across the country.”
A Reflection of Colorado’s Cycling Culture
For Bicycle Colorado, the dual recognition underscores the broader strength of cycling in the state.
Executive Director Peter Piccolo pointed to events like these as central to Colorado’s identity as a riding destination, noting that both competitive and recreational events help drive tourism while reinforcing the state’s deep-rooted bike culture.
Together, Colorado’s Ride and the Tour of the Moon offer a compelling snapshot of that culture—one defined as much by high-altitude suffering as by scenery, history, and the shared experience of the ride.
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