COLORADO ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH EXPLORER
This 11-day dual sport-style motorcycle adventure, fifty percent of the itinerary will be dirt surfaces featuring jeep trails crossing Rocky Mountain passes in Colorado and the surrounding areas of Moab. If you like an occasional stream crossing mixed with exploring abandoned mining towns lost in time, this is the ride for you. Imagine climbing the high passes of Colorado, staying in small ski towns, taking in fall colours, and topping out at Pikes Peak. We even dip into Moab to get a taste of desert beauty. Get ready, this is going to be a good one.
ROAD CONDITIONS:
Fifty percent of the itinerary will be dirt roads and jeep trails. Please be ready to get dirty.
COLORADO ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH EXPLORER
Starting Price: $7,900
Total Miles: 3,400 Kilometres (2,100 Miles)
Difficulty: Is this tour right for me?
Contact us with any questions
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THE ITINERARY

Day 1 - Arrival Day Grand Junction
Your motorcycle adventure starts by arriving in Grand Junction, Colorado. Check into your hotel. Meet your fellow riders at the welcome dinner this evening.

Day 2 - Grand Junction to Aspen 260miles/418km
Half the day will be spent on sealed tarmac, the other half, dirt roads. Enjoy world-class canyon carving at the start and the finish of the day. Soak in the great views atop Grand Mesa, billed as the largest flat-topped mountain in the world. Arrive in Aspen with enough time to walk the town. Stay in Aspen.

Day 3 - Aspen to Manitou Springs 211miles/340km
Today is a mixture of great paved mountain roads and dirt roads through the Colorado countryside. End your day riding to the top of famed Pikes Peak (4,302 metres, or 14,115 feet). Stay in Manitou Springs, Colorado.

Day 4 - Manitou Springs to Salida 267miles/430km
Our route takes us through the Wet Mountains, along the Old Spanish Trail. Check out the Great Sand Dunes before arriving in Salida. Stay in Salida, Colorado.

Day 5 - Salida to Crested Butte 370 230miles/370km
Today is a day to remember as you top out Marshall, Cumberland, and Black Sage passes on your way to Crested Butte. Get ready to fall in love with Colorado. Stay in Crested Butte, Colorado.

Day 6 - Crested Butte to Telluride 149miles/240km
Ride the back roads of Colorado up and over Owl Creek Pass before descending into Telluride. Stay in Telluride, Colorado.

Day 7 - Free Day in Telluride, CO 186miles/300km
Kick your feet up for a breather in Telluride, or head out on one of multiple adventurous riding loop options we've got in our back pocket for you. If you could use the rest, but worry you'll be missing out, no worries: we'll be in town another full day tomorrow, so nobody will be missing out. Stay in Telluride, Colorado.

Day 8 - Free Day in Telluride, CO 186miles/300km
Change things up for your second free day in Telluride, or keep a good thing going. Stay in Telluride, Colorado.

Day 9 - Telluride, CO to Moab, UT 242miles/390km
Kick up some dust on dirt roads as you leave the mountains for the desert. Stunning views with "middle of nowhere" states of mind. Stay in Moab, Utah.

Day 10 - Free Day in Moab, UT 186miles/300km
We know of a good number of outstanding riding options out of Moab for you today. You can explore Arches National Park, or opt to explore an off-road route to the Colorado River and take in one of the most amazing canyon views anywhere. Stay in Moab, Utah.

Day 11 - Moab, UT to Grand Junction, CO 140miles/225km
Mostly offroad today as we skirt the northern part of the La Sal mountains and make our way back to Grand Junction. Farewell dinner tonight. Stay in Grand Junction, Colorado

Day 12 - Departure Day
Return home, or go somewhere else. All that is left is the crying.
THE GEAR TO BRING
MotoQuest guides wear KLIM helmets, jackets, pants and gloves, and we outfit our motorcycles with luggage and accessories from Revzilla. You can view and download our complete MotoQuest packing list here.
Included with the tour:
Hotel Accommodations
Premiere Welcome and Farewell Dinners
Professional MotoQuest Guide(s)
Support Vehicle
Support Vehicle Driver
Staff Trained in First Aid with Satellite Phone
MotoQuest Swag Bag
Photos Taken on the Trip
Automatic Enrollment in Global Rescue
Not Included:
Airfare
Meals on the Road
Gas
Alcohol
Alternative Tours
Travel Insurance
Gratuities
National Park Entrance Fees
MotoQuest Staff on Tour:
Landmarks And Attractions
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, world-class skiing, and vibrant cultural scene. Aspen is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly during the winter months. The town is surrounded by four renowned ski resorts: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. These resorts offer a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, ensuring an exhilarating experience on the powdery slopes. Beyond skiing, Aspen offers a plethora of outdoor activities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and even hot air balloon rides, allowing them to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. In addition to its natural beauty, Aspen is known for its vibrant cultural scene. The town is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and music festivals, attracting artists and performers from around the world. The Aspen Music Festival and School, held annually, showcases world-class classical music performances, while the Aspen Ideas Festival brings together thought leaders and innovators for intellectual discussions. Aspen also boasts a charming downtown area, lined with boutique shops, upscale restaurants, and cozy cafes. Visitors can stroll along the streets, admiring the Victorian architecture and enjoying the lively atmosphere. The town's rich history and heritage can be explored at the Aspen Historical Society, which offers insights into the area's mining past and the development of the town.
Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte is known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class outdoor activities, and vibrant community. Crested Butte is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities throughout the year. During the winter months, the town transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its renowned ski resort, Crested Butte Mountain Resort. With its diverse terrain and abundant snowfall, the resort offers thrilling slopes for all skill levels. In the summer, Crested Butte becomes a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers. The surrounding mountains and valleys are adorned with colorful wildflowers, creating a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. The town is also known for its extensive trail network, offering opportunities for scenic hikes and exhilarating mountain biking adventures. Beyond outdoor activities, Crested Butte has a vibrant and welcoming community. The town's historic downtown area is lined with colorful Victorian-era buildings, housing unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. The community takes pride in its rich cultural heritage, hosting various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Crested Butte Arts Festival and the Crested Butte Music Festival. Crested Butte is also known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere. The locals, known as "Buttians," are known for their warm hospitality and love for the outdoors. The town has a strong sense of community, with regular gatherings and events that bring residents and visitors together.
Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains is a majestic and awe-inspiring mountain range that stretches across North America, spanning over 3,000 miles from Canada to New Mexico. The Rocky Mountains, often referred to as the Rockies, are a natural wonder that captivates visitors with their rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems. The Rockies are home to numerous national parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, Glacier National Park in Montana, and Banff National Park in Canada. These parks offer breathtaking landscapes, with towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and lush forests. Visitors can explore the mountains through hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting, encountering iconic species such as elk, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears. The Rockies are also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities throughout the year. During the winter months, the mountains become a playground for skiers and snowboarders, with world-class resorts such as Aspen, Vail, and Whistler Blackcomb attracting winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe. In the summer, the Rockies offer opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and whitewater rafting, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings. Beyond their natural beauty, the Rockies hold a rich cultural and historical significance. The mountains have been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, and their traditions and stories are deeply intertwined with the land. The Rockies also played a crucial role in the exploration and settlement of North America, with historic sites and museums showcasing the region's past.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride is a charming and picturesque town known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class skiing, and vibrant arts scene. Telluride is renowned for its ski resort, Telluride Ski Resort, which offers a wide range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With its breathtaking mountain vistas and abundant snowfall, the resort provides an exhilarating experience on the slopes. The town itself is a winter wonderland, with cozy lodges, charming shops, and inviting restaurants that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Beyond skiing, Telluride offers a plethora of outdoor activities throughout the year. In the summer months, the mountains transform into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding trails offer stunning views of alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, and towering peaks, providing endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Telluride is also known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The town hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Telluride Film Festival, which attracts renowned filmmakers and movie enthusiasts from around the world. The historic Sheridan Opera House and the Telluride Historical Museum showcase the town's rich heritage and provide insights into its mining past. The town itself is a delight to explore, with its well-preserved Victorian-era architecture and charming main street. Telluride's downtown area is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, offering a unique blend of small-town charm and sophistication.
Moab, Utah
Moab, Utah is a desert oasis nestled amidst the stunning red rock landscapes of southeastern Utah. Moab is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of adventures and natural wonders to explore. Moab is perhaps best known for its proximity to two iconic national parks: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Arches National Park is famous for its unique rock formations, including the iconic Delicate Arch, which has become a symbol of Utah. The park boasts over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, towering spires, and balanced rocks, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape. Canyonlands National Park, on the other hand, showcases the power of the Colorado River as it carved deep canyons and mesas over millions of years. The park offers breathtaking vistas, rugged hiking trails, and opportunities for backcountry exploration. In addition to the national parks, Moab is a playground for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and off-roading. The area is renowned for its extensive trail systems, including the world-famous Slickrock Bike Trail, which challenges mountain bikers with its unique sandstone terrain. The Colorado River also flows through Moab, providing opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Moab is not just about outdoor adventures, though. The town itself has a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The main street is lined with charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants, offering a taste of local cuisine and a chance to browse unique crafts and artwork. The community in Moab is known for its friendly and laid-back vibe, making visitors feel right at home.