quiznos pro challenge update

In my last post, I wrote: " The next stage is from Gunnison to Aspen. If it goes through the Black Canyon, it will feature some of the best scenery ever featured in professional cycling. And McClure Pass is a short steep climb before a pretty ride into Aspen."

I've read some comments from those apparently in the know in Colorado that suggests instead of the charming Black Canyon, McClure pass route to Aspen, the race may go in a whole other direction. If they are correct the Quiznos Pro Challenge would go north out of Gunnison towards Crested Butte again, only this time turning at Almont and riding up to the Taylor Park Reservoir. Then they would head up the UN-PAVED side of Cottonwood Pass.

Which would lead to an incredible descent down to Buena Vista. (I suggest riders stop for a musette at K's Dairy-Delite) Then it's up US 24 along the Collegiate Peaks, west on CO 82, up over Independence Pass, followed by a fast technical descent into Aspen.

If this indeed is the route, this stage will be more than 130 miles and feature two climbs to more than 12,000 feet! One on dirt! Epic.