Poncha Springs

The Salida and Poncha Springs loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you through a blend of scenic natural landscapes and charming town environments. You'll pedal along mostly paved surfaces, enjoying picturesque views of the Sawatch Range and the Arkansas River, with the route passing directly through Historic Downtown Salida and the settlement of Poncha Springs. This moderate 16.0-mile (25.7 km) loop features a manageable 727 feet (222 metres) of elevation gain, making it a pleasant ride that typically takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes.

When planning your ride, you'll find this route very accessible, as it primarily utilizes public roads and established cycle paths, meaning no specific permits or entrance fees are required. The best season for cycling the Salida and Poncha Springs loop is during the spring, summer, and fall months, when the weather is most agreeable and the surrounding scenery is at its most vibrant. It's an excellent choice for cyclists of most fitness levels looking for a relaxed outing.

This loop is notable for its connections to other significant cycling paths in the region, including sections of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, the Monarch Spur Trail, and the Salida River Trail. For instance, the Monarch Spur Trail is a 2.5-mile concrete path that runs between the Arkansas River in downtown Salida and the western end of the railroad right-of-way, offering additional exploration opportunities. The broader area around Salida and Poncha Springs is a hub for cycling, providing diverse landscapes and even access to hot springs for a relaxing post-ride soak.

This segment of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route takes you on a challenging journey from the historic downtown of Salida, through varied mountainous terrain, and up to the expansive views of Poncha Pass. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with the scenery gradually shifting from the charm of a mountain town to the wide-open vistas of the high desert, often with snow-capped mountains in the distance. The route is designed for touring cyclists who appreciate a good climb and the reward of panoramic natural features.

Expect a difficult 26.1-mile (42.0 km) ride with 1984 feet (605 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 43 minutes. While much of the route is asphalt, the sustained climbs, particularly to Poncha Pass, demand significant endurance. You can find amenities like food and public restrooms in Poncha Springs, making it a convenient stop for resupply or a break before or after tackling the pass.

Poncha Pass, standing at 9,010 feet, is a significant landmark on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, marking the boundary between Chaffee and Saguache Counties and serving as a gateway to the San Luis Valley. This section contributes to the GDMBR's reputation as the longest off-pavement cycling route globally, offering a concentrated challenge that showcases the distinct natural beauty of central Colorado.