Loveland Pass to Keystone

Summary

Another payoff! This descent's the least technical on the course and easily the fastest. Overall, the surface quality is excellent, with only a few minor imperfections shortly after the summit. Three hairpin turns are going into the Arapahoe Basin Ski Area. Although the road is wide and the turns visible, ride slowly through here and be prepared for gravel. West of the ski area, the pavement becomes perfectly smooth. Don't underestimate the tight turn radius of the offramp at the bottom as you enter the Keystone, and expect rough pavement here.

Preview

As with Juniper Pass, common sense suggests wildlife may be present, and the opposite lane is open to vehicle traffic, demanding respect for the centerline.

You'll join cars riding through Keystone, but the volume is typically light, and there is plenty of room for cyclists. The grade levels off at this point and undulates near the end, so you'll have to do a little work. Still an excellent section to rest the legs for the next challenge.