Who's riding CT in 2009?

[Pivvay]

Not legally...

[alpka]

Fair enough, thanks

[alpka]

So, then, the next question, after reading the book a little-Can anyone comment on how rigorous the CT is for a bikepacker in the portions where there are strongly suggested "optional" detours?

[zenboy99]

I'm thinking of switching my trip to late August, bike racing season has been too good to me.

Is it OK to park at the beginning of the trail south of Denver for an extended period of time?

As far as water and food go, do most people just filter there water along the way and bring all their own food?  Or are there enough places off the trail to ride off and grab supplies?

[Majcolo]

"Rigorous" is relative, but in general expect to walk a lot if the CT guidebook recommends a detour. They don't call them the Rocky Mountains for nothing, especially above tree line. Think scree fields and you've got the picture.

A buddy and I rode up and down Mt. Bross on hardtails back in the 90's, which makes a nice side trip if you have the time. You can also easily and quickly bag Mt. Democrat and Mt. Lincoln as the three peaks are quite close together. That ride was rigorous, but descending from 14,000 ft. is fairly amazing, and we could ride down many of the rock sections we had to walk up.

August is your best bet for a snow-free route, and hottest month for the lower elevation sections. Filter water along the route yes, but plan your sources as there are some dry stretches. If you're going lightweight at a touring pace, you'll want to ride off-route to resupply or arrange to have someone meet you with supplies where the trail crosses a road. You'd start out pretty heavy if you tried to carry enough for the whole trail.

The CT guidebook is gold for basic trail beta, and gives you detailed info on supply points.

Edit: You don't want to leave a vehicle at Waterton Canyon, which is the Denver end of the trail. However, there is excellent bus service and an excellent urban bike trail system that will get you from anywhere in the Denver metro area to the trailhead.

[Mike Brown]

So, then, the next question, after reading the book a little-Can anyone comment on how rigorous the CT is for a bikepacker in the portions where there are strongly suggested "optional" detours?

The only optional detour I did was the bike path because the pass was still snowed in. 
All of that trail was fine.  The only truly challening part was Coney/Cataract.  I wish the racers lucks in that section.

[suntourusa]

Hey Guys,

I am going to be starting the CT August 8 or 9.  I'm definitely through riding it.  I am shooting for 2 weeks but gave myself 3 weeks because my little brother is riding with me for the first week and I do not know if he will be up for covering more then 30 miles a day. 

I am going to try to keep gear weight down to 20-25 pounds for the trip.  Going to have to wait and see if that actually happens though.

[Moondoggy]

I`m starting August 6th. I`m only going to Leadville though from Waterton.