Mountain Village to Lizard Head Pass

This is a difficult touring bicycle route, requiring very good fitness. It covers approximately 45.8 kilometers (28.5 miles) with a substantial elevation gain of around 840 meters (2,756 feet). While mostly paved, the climb is consistent and includes sections with grades up to 8%.

The best season for cycling this route is typically late spring through early fall. Riding in the morning is highly recommended to avoid afternoon rains, which are common in the San Juan Mountains.

Cyclists often start from Telluride or Mountain Village. For parking, you would typically look for available options within Mountain Village or Telluride, depending on your starting point. Specific parking lots should be checked locally upon arrival.

The route offers breathtaking scenery with green, rugged landscapes, expansive valleys, and towering peaks. You'll pass an Overlook View of valley and mountains and eventually reach Lizard Head Pass itself, named after the distinctive spire-shaped Lizard Head Peak visible nearby. Notable fourteeners like El Diente, Mount Wilson, and Wilson Peak are also visible.

Yes, if starting from Telluride, you'll encounter a steep 8% grade almost immediately on CO 145 towards Mountain Village. Beyond Mountain Village, the road continues to climb with sections ranging from 2% to 4%. Around the 8-mile mark from Telluride, there's a short downhill into a valley near Ophir, meaning a temporary loss of altitude before a mile of climbing at about 6%, followed by a sustained 6-8% climb for approximately three miles around mile 12.

While the cycling route approaches the Lizard Head Pass, which is near the Lizard Head Wilderness, typically no specific permits or entrance fees are required for cycling on the paved public roads like CO 145 that lead to the pass. However, if you plan to venture into the designated Wilderness Area on foot, different regulations may apply.

This route primarily follows paved public roads. While dogs are generally allowed on leash in public areas, it's important to ensure they are safely secured if riding with you and to adhere to all local leash laws and clean-up regulations, especially in towns like Telluride and Mountain Village.

The estimated duration for this 45.8 km (28.5 miles) route is approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes (11,381 seconds) of active cycling time, though this can vary significantly based on individual fitness levels and stops for scenery.

Given the difficulty and alpine environment, pack essentials like plenty of water, high-energy snacks, layers of clothing (even in summer, mountain weather can change quickly), rain gear (especially for afternoons), sun protection, a bike repair kit, and a first-aid kit. A helmet is essential.

Yes, while primarily a road cycling route, sections of it intersect or run alongside other trails. For instance, the route briefly utilizes parts of the Galloping Goose, Boulevard, and Lizard Head Trail, among others.

You'll find various amenities, including cafes and restaurants, in Telluride and Mountain Village, which serve as common starting or ending points for this ride. There are limited services directly on the pass itself or along the more remote sections of the climb.