This Monday, August 20, one of the largest bike races in U.S. history will begin in Durango, over Lizard Head Pass and into your neighborhood. Thousands of spectators are expected including throngs of domestic and international media. Along with all the excitement comes traffic delays and closures. Read below to learn more about how the race might impact your commute.Rolling closures will occur on State Highway 145 from 12:45 p.m. to 4 p.m. Anticipate 30- to 45-minute delays as all vehicles will be forced to pull over until all racers and support staff have passed. Officials recommend avoiding all nonessential travel between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Local trails into Telluride will remain open and accessible to residents and guests wanting to travel into Telluride for the festivities. If you ride your bike into Telluride a bike valet, benefitting the Telluride High School Student Council, will be available at the Oak Street Gondola Station. The gondola, Dial-A-Ride and the Meadows bus will operate from 7 a.m. to midnight. Please plan ahead as the town anticipates long wait lines similar to the Fourth of July.
Additional information about the race, transportation and parking can all be found at www.townofmountainvillage.com. Specific information on Stage 1 parking and camping availability on National Forest lands is available at www.fs.usda.gov/sanjuan.