North Fork Canyon - Estes Park to Drake
The Cinnamon Roll Ride!
Price: $50 (includes cinnamon roll)
Availability: Late May - September, Monday - Friday
Difficulty of Ride: Easy
Length of Ride: 10 miles
Length of Experience: 3 hours +/-
Meeting times: 9:00 am & 1:00 pm
Meeting Place: New Venture Bike Shop
Riders must be at least 9 years of age and 4'10" in height.
Please call for larger group bookings! 970-231-2736
We give a 10% discount for active US Military, veterans and seniors. Enter Promo Code UNMILITARY or SENIOR during your booking process or request the discount if booking over the phone.
The Cinnamon Roll Ride! North Fork Canyon tour starts at 8000', slightly higher than the elevation of Estes Park, and descends to Drake, so this is a great experience for those who aren't ready for riding above tree line. This beautiful canyon was the epicenter of the historic September 2013 flood. As a result, the tiny hamlet of Glen Haven suffered heavy damage, but this hardy community is already rebuilding and reemerging. This ride allows you to witness the rebuilding of the quaint mountain town of Glen Haven, along with the fresh scars caused by the massive intensity of this natural event.
We begin our ride above a short series of steep switchbacks, but you have the option of beginning just below them if you wish. Our first stop is in Glen Haven where we stop to enjoy the famous Glen Haven General Store cinnamon rolls when available, from Memorial Day to mid-October. The cost of the tour includes a cinnamon roll.
Despite the flood occurring in the recent past, the present now offers an exciting ride down a wildly beautiful canyon, ready with amazing scenery! And there’s always a chance we will see wildlife such as coyote, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, or maybe even a bear!
Our ride ends at the confluence of the North Fork with the Big Thompson River, at the historic town of Drake. We then get back into the van and drive up the Big Thompson Canyon, returning to New Venture Cycling headquarters.
When judging difficulty of the ride, remember that we are riding on a paved road with occasionally cars passing. Riders must be able to maintain attention and position on the road. This can be challenging for kids under ten years of age, depending on level of riding experience.
We offer reservable seats in the support van for those group members who want to come along for the ride, but not on a bicycle. Van seats are $15 and only available if other group members will be riding. Additional van seats may be available, please inquire.