When and where is check-in/bib pickup?
Check-in is the morning of the ride, Sunday, Sept. 17, starting at 7:30 a.m. at Absolute BIkes, 330 W. Sackett Ave., Salida. There's no pre-ride bib pickup. All riders must check-in and get their bib on Sunday morning before entering their assigned shuttle.
Where can I park?
There is public parking at the end of F Street, on the other side of the Arkansas River from Riverside Park.
From Highway 50: turn north on G Street (just east of Soulcraft Brewery). Travel north (toward "S mountain") on G St. Keep going until you pass 1st Street. Turn right on Sackett Street, then left on F St. and continue over the bridge to the parking area.
From US 285 and County Road 291: Follow County Road 291 into downtown Salida and turn left on G Street. Then turn right on Sackett Street and left on F St. and continue over the bridge to the parking area.
There’s also parking near the skate park (corner of 1st St/CR 291 and G St.), or west of Safeway on G Street between 2nd & 3rd Streets.
What time is my shuttle leaving?
For 2023, we're currently planning on 3 times for shuttles (first shuttle will leave at 7:45 a.m.). Riders will need to pick their shuttle time BEFORE the day of the ride. Shuttle selection is part of the registration process. The sooner you register, the better chance you'll have of getting the shuttle time you want! You may also self-shuttle if you prefer.
Where is Salida, and where can I stay near the ride?
The amazing mountain town of Salida is located 2.5 hours drive southwest of Denver via US 285 or 2 hours west of Colorado Springs via US 24, then south on US 285. There are multiple motels, cabins, short-term rentals and camping spots in the area - check out the Salida Chamber of Commerce for options.
Do I need to have a really good mountain bike?
To ride the Monarch Crest Trail, you need a mountain bike in excellent working condition. This does not mean a really expensive bike. If you have any doubts, please have your bike checked by a professional mechanic before the event. You can also rent a bike through SubCulture Cyclery in Salida.
What will the weather be like for the ride?
In September it's usually sunny, cool in the morning, and warmer in late morning and afternoon. The Monarch Crest Trail is along the Continental Divide, and it will be fairly chilly up there in the morning when the ride starts. You will need a long sleeve jersey and jacket. It will warm up considerably as the day goes on. If it’s foggy or rainy, the show must go on and we’ll do the ride regardless. In this case, you will need much more clothing – rain gear, hat, gloves, long sleeve jersey and rain jacket.
What's for lunch?
We're currently working on our food vendor arrangements for 2023 and will post updated info here when we have it dialed in. We will do our very best to provide vegetarian and gluten-free options.
What precautions are you taking for public health due to COVID-19?
We’ve been in touch with our county Public Health Department and they’ve helped us with the changes we made to this event due to COVID-19. We always want our riders and volunteers to stay healthy and safe! So here’s what we’re doing - we'll update this if/when the situation changes:
Shuttles: We’ll be doing a “staggered start” with shuttles leaving at different times. Riders must pick their shuttle time before ride day (Sept. 17) - the sooner you register, the better chance you’ll have to pick the shuttle time you want. If you’re planning to ride with others, please pick the same shuttle. If you prefer to self-shuttle for the ride, you must let the ride coordinator know by picking that option within the registration process or via email (crestcrank@gmail.com).
Masks: We may require that you wear a mask while on the shuttle, depending on public health guidance the week of the event.
Supplies: We will have wipes and hand sanitizer for use by volunteers to keep surfaces clean, including shuttles and check-in spots (pre-ride, Marshall Pass aid station and post-ride). Please bring your own hand sanitizer and wipes for personal use.
Updated waiver: We’ve added language to our standard rider waiver that includes the stipulation that if you have any symptoms of being sick, you MUST NOT RIDE. If you’re not feeling well the day of the ride, we will defer your registration to next year’s event. We’ve also added language that says you agree to wear a mask on the shuttle (if required), and when you’re within 6 feet of other participants and volunteers (if required).
Aid station: We will have limited water and snacks at the Aid Station. We will have medically trained volunteers there to check in riders and help with urgent medical needs. Please bring enough water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and fueled for the entire ride.
Post-ride meal: We are currently planning to host a post-ride party this year - YAY! We're planning to have food, beverages and a band! You’re more than welcome to bring family and friends to purchase meals and beverages to celebrate your successful Crest Crank ride and support The Alliance!
What if the event is cancelled due to public health concerns?
We are hopeful that we'll be able to hold the event on Sept. 17, 2023 - and we'll only do so if it's safe for the health of our riders and our community. We are in touch with our county public health department and other local officials, and will let those that registered know as soon as possible if we need to cancel.
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