Courage Classic Rider Manual

Quick Access

Getting There | Rider Check-In | Start/Finish | Routes | On-Route Support| Emergency Contact Information | Wristband/Helmet Stickers | Rider Bike Plate | Medical Services | Rider Meals and Benefits | Safety and Training | Gearing Up for the Ride | Team and Event Photos | Information Tent | Weekend Schedule  

Getting There 

Courage Classic starts and ends at Copper Mountain Resort. Please visit their website to learn more about travel options, parking and shuttle services. 

Copper Map 

Rider Check-In 

If you met your fundraising requirement by June 20, your rider packet was mailed to your address on file July 5.  Please bring this packet with your wristband, helmet stickers and bike plate to the tour so you can bypass rider check-in. If you forget anything or need to pick up your packet at the tour, check-in hours are below. 

Friday, July 18 

  • 4-8 p.m. | Copper Conference Center – upper level 

Saturday, July 19

  • 5:30-9 a.m. | Copper Conference Center – upper level 
  • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Info Tent in Eagle’s Landing/Center Village 

Sunday, July 20

  • 5:30-8 a.m. | Info Tent in Eagle’s Landing/Center Village

Fundraising minimums ($500/ Adult (18+); $125/Child (age 6-17)) must be met by rider check-in starting July 18 to ride in Courage Classic. If you have not met your fundraising minimum at tour check-in, the remaining balance must be collected to receive your rider packet. Checks, cash and credit cards are accepted on-site.  

On-site rider registration is available but fundraising minimums are a requirement to ride in Courage Classic and must be met prior to riding tour weekend.  

Start/Finish 

Courage Classic starts and finishes each day at Eagle’s Landing/Center Village at Copper Mountain Resort. 

You’ll see start times listed on the routes below. Courage Classic routes do not have an official send off from the start line. These designated start times are important to ensure on-route services (ex: aid stations and SAG Wagons) are available for your safety and comfort. If you start earlier or later than the start times, services may not be available. Aid Station hours can be found here.

As a Colorado State Patrol directive, please do not start any of these routes until 5:45 a.m. 

Saturday, July 19: 

  • 80 miles – Copper Loop: 6 a.m. 
  • 42 miles – Vail Pass: 8 a.m. 
  • 12 miles – Vaill Pass Express: 9 a.m. 

Sunday, July 20:  

  • 61 miles – Loveland Pass: 6 a.m. 
  • 44 miles – Keystone: 7 a.m. 
  • 24 miles – Summit High School: 8 a.m. 

Routes 

Visit the Routes page to learn more about the available routes each day and to access the Ride with GPS maps.

The only planned road closure is westbound Swan Mountain for 4 hours on Sunday, July 20. All other roads will be open to vehicular traffic and rules of the road must be followed. Vail Pass, Vail Pass Express, Keystone and Summit High School routes have limited road riding and use recreational paths the majority of ride.

Route Changes:

  • Keystone & Loveland Pass riders will NOT ride on Hwy 6 from Dillon Dam to the Town of Keystone and will ride on the Dillon Res. Rec Path and Summit County Rec Path. Loveland Pass riders will still access Hwy 6 after the Town of Keystone to start the ascent to Loveland Pass Summit. This impacts miles 16-23.3 for both routes.
  • Keystone & Loveland Pass riders will NOT ride on Swan Mtn. Rd. to access Sapphire Point and will ride on the Dillon Res. Rec Path from Swan Mtn. Road/Hwy 6 to Sapphire Point. This is due to road paving on Swan Mtn. Rd from Swan Mtn. Rd/Hwy 6 to Sapphire Point. Westbound Swan Mtn. will still be closed for 4 hours as riders will ride on Swan Mtn. Rd. after Sapphire Point. Please be prepared to dismount your bike to cross the milled road. This impacts miles 26.5-30 for Keystone riders and miles 44-48 for Loveland riders.

On-Route Support

Aid Stations 

Aid stations are located throughout each route. Check your route map for exact locations. Each aid station is staffed by volunteers and will offer snacks, hydration and bathrooms, as well as medical and mechanical support. Please keep your bike off the side of the road when you stop. 

These designated start times are important to ensure on-route services (ex: aid stations and SAG Wagons) are available for your safety and comfort. If you start earlier or later than the start times, services may not be available. If you are the last rider and are still on route once the last aid station has closed, Colorado State Patrol will give you the option to SAG to the finish line or go unsupported for the remainder of the ride.

Saturday, July 19 

Copper Loop – 79 miles (start by 6 a.m.):
  • Mile 6.6: Fremont Pass – portable toilets only 
  • Mile 12: Climax Mine/Summit of Fremont Pass | 6:30-10 a.m. 
  • Mile 27: East Tennessee Pass Entrance – portable toilets only 
  • Mile 38: Camp Hale | 7:45-11:45 a.m. 
  • Mile 52: Little Beach Park/Minturn (Lunch) | 9 a.m.-1:45 p.m. Lunch aid stations are available for riders only. Wristbands are required for entry. 
  • Mile 66: Bottom of Vail Pass (Gore Creek/Forest Gate) | 8:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 
  • Mile 74: Black Lakes Parking Area (Top of Vail Pass) | 8 a.m.-4:45 p.m. 
Vail Pass – 42 miles (start by 8 a.m.):
  • Mile 6: Black Lakes Parking Area (Top of Vail Pass) | 8 a.m.-4:45 p.m. 
  • Mile 14: Bottom of Vail Pass (Gore Creek/Forest Gate) | 8:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 
  • Mile 21: Vail Mountain West Day Lot (Lunch) | 9 a.m.-2:15 p.m.  Lunch aid stations are available for riders only. Wristbands are required for entry.
  • Mile 29: Bottom of Vail Pass (Gore Creek/Forest Gate) | 8:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 
  • Mile 36: Black Lakes Parking Area (Top of Vail Pass) | 8 a.m.-4:45 p.m. 
Vail Pass Express – 12 miles (start by 9 a.m.):
  • Mile 6: Black Lakes Parking Area (Top of Vail Pass) | 8 a.m.-4:45 p.m. 
  • Vail Pass Express lunch will be available in Copper Mountain in Jack’s Slopeside Grill from 10:30-1 p.m. 

Sunday, July 20 

Loveland Pass – 61 miles (start by 6 a.m.):
  • Mile 13: Giberson Bay Pull-Off | 6:15-10:15 a.m. 
  • Mile 28: A-Basin/Early Riser Lot | 7:45-10:45 a.m. 
  • Mile 41: Keystone Pika Lot | 7:30 a.m.-noon
  • Mile 50: Summit High School | 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 
Keystone – 44 miles (start by 7 a.m.):
  • Mile 13: Giberson Bay Pull-Off | 6:15-10:15 a.m. 
  • Mile 23: Keystone Pika Lot | 7:30 a.m.-noon
  • Mile 32: Summit High School | 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 
Summit High School – 24 miles (start by 8 a.m.):
  • Mile 12: Summit High School | 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 

Bicycle Repairs 

Mechanics from sponsoring bike shops are at the start line and aid stations along the route to help riders with bike repairs. If a fix requires a fee, please coordinate directly with the bike shop for payment. Be sure to thank your mechanic for supporting Courage Classic! 

SAG wagons 

If you (and your bike) need a lift up a hill, to the next aid station or to the finish line, SAG wagons (vans with bike racks) are located throughout the route each day. To catch a ride, you will need to be on a road (versus a bike path) or at an aid station. Pull your bike off the road to a safe spot, and flag down the approaching SAG van.  

Please note: Riders with e-bikes,* trailers and tandem bikes may wait longer for a SAG van due to space limitations. Riders with children who need a car seat are required to wait for our van outfitted with car seats.  

*Class 1 e-bikes are permitted on Courage Classic routes, except on certain Vail paths accessed by our 79-mile and 42-mile routes on Saturday (12-mile route is not affected).  

The SAG wagon stop before Vail Pass has a high volume of need, so your patience is appreciated. SAG wagons at this location transport riders to the top of Vail Pass (Black Lakes Aid Station), not to Copper Mountain. From there, riders can choose to complete the ride or wait for another SAG van to take them to Copper Mountain.  SAG wagons are not available on Vail Pass.

If you or your child are unable to finish the route, certain SAG wagons are equipped with booster and car seats to give you and your child a lift back to the start. You’re welcome to exit the route at any time.

Emergency Contact Information 

Please verify the accuracy of your emergency contact information and cell phone number (in case you are hurt at the event – please confirm it is not your own name!) in your Participant Center. Visit https://givechildrensco.org/ccpc25 and select Profile, then Questions to confirm your Emergency Contact Information. You can also update your route selections at the same time if they have changed since registration.

Wristband/Helmet Stickers 

Your rider packet will contain your wristband and helmet stickers. Your wristband will act as your tour ID and meal ticket for breakfast and lunch. Your helmet stickers are required to be affixed to your helmet while on route. Please wear your wristband for the duration of the tour. Should you lose your wristband, or it is detached, please visit the check-in or information tent to receive a replacement (photo ID is required to replace your wristband). Please reference check-in and information tent hours.  

Rider Bike Plate 

Rider bike plates are equipped with a RFID chip. This will help us know who is on the route. There will be 8-10 points on route for us to gather the most accurate rider information. Along with your wristband and helmet stickers, the bike plate is required to be attached to your bike. The plate must be attached to the front of the bike bars and cannot be bent. 

Family and friends can access the app with the below links. The app data is only accurate if you ride the route you selected during registration. Visit https://givechildrensco.org/ccpc25 and select Profile, then Questions to confirm/edit the routes you plan to ride.  

The app is not intended to be used for timing or race purposes – Courage Classic is not a race!  

Full app directions can be found here.
Download on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Medical Services 

If you feel dizzy, sore, excessively tired or if you have an injury, medical volunteers are available at all aid stations, along the route as biking and motor medics, and at the finish line in Eagle’s Landing/Center Village. Medical volunteers (red jersey or t-shirt) offer basic first aid services and are equipped with first-aid items. Medical volunteers are in contact with emergency services for more severe injuries. If you need acetaminophen or ibuprofen, please bring it with you on your ride or be prepared to sign a release at the aid station or Eagle’s Landing/Center Village. 

If a rider or volunteer needs medical attention, please use your cell phone to call the Courage Classic Medical Supervisor at 303-746-5583. In the event of a life-threatening emergency, call 911, and then notify the Medical Supervisor. 

Rider Meals and Benefits 

Registered riders who met their fundraising minimum will receive: 

  • Access to Team Town and Courage Classic Happy Hour on Friday, July 18, from 4-8 p.m. at Jack’s Slopeside Grill. A drink ticket is in your rider packet for one free soda/beer. 
  • Breakfast (Saturday/Sunday) 
  • Stocked aid stations every 6-25 miles 
  • Lunch on-route (Saturday) 
    • Vail Pass Express Lunch will be in Jack’s Slopeside Grill from 10:30-1 p.m. 
    • Finish Line BBQ (Sunday) in Jack’s Slopeside Grill from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 
  • Rider shirt  
  • Finisher medal 
  • Finish line treats 
  • Access to Courage Cruise – included in registration (will only receive one Courage Classic shirt per registration).

Times for meals based in Copper Mountain can be found on the Weekend Schedule.

Safety and Training 

Rules of the Road 

Cycling safely and considerately is vital to ensuring the safety of other riders as well as your enjoyment of the tour. The future of cycling events in Colorado depends on your cooperation with the rules below. Courage Classic is a tour conducted on roads with vehicular traffic. Roads include both marked and unmarked hazards. Though we go to great lengths to make the ride as safe as possible, always remember that safety is your responsibility and follow these rules when riding: 

  • Courage Classic is a tour, not a race. We welcome riders of all skill levels, including families with small children. Please be aware and considerate of others throughout the tour. 
  • Always wear a helmet! NO EXCEPTIONS. 
  • Wear provided wristband, bike plate and helmet stickers.  
  • Carry ID and relevant medical information. 
  • Headphones and ear buds are prohibited.  
  • Avoid using cell phones and other personal devices while biking. 
  • Ride with the flow of traffic, never against it (unless in a designated bike lane).
  • Rules of the road apply; cyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers of other vehicles. 
  • Ride single file where necessary, with a maximum of two abreast when conditions allow; do not impede traffic. 
  • Ride as far right as reasonable. 
  • Obey all traffic lights, signs and regulations. 
  • Move off or as far to the side of the road if you need to stop. Look for and yield to traffic when re-entering the route.  
  • Pass on the left only, and announce your presence with “Passing,” “Hello,” or “On your left.” Do not pass if you see a double yellow line. 
  • Be aware of road hazards, such as potholes, glass, grates, loose gravel and debris, and uneven pavement. 
  • Use hand signals 100 ft. prior to indicate any road hazards, stops, slowing, right and left turns.  
  • Pack snacks, water, and weather gear—mountain weather can change fast! Mornings are often cold, so dress in layers and bring a rain jacket and sun protection to stay comfortable all day. 
  • Respect other riders, volunteers, host communities, motorists, pedestrians, law enforcement and the environment. 
  • The course will have SAG wagons and mechanics at each aid station to help with technical difficulties, but please carry spare tubes and tools, as well. 

Please note: We reserve the right to close the route at any time due to weather, safety or other emergencies. If you are riding with children, please review our helmet rules and SAG wagon information. 

Training 

  • This ride through the Rocky Mountains is a mix of endurance, elevation, climbs, and epic views. Many Courage Classic participants train at least 6-8 weeks ahead of the weekend, incorporating a mix of short rides, long rides and hill climbs to prepare for the mountainous roads! Hydration and fueling your body is always important both during training and during the tour. If you and your bike need a lift up a hill, to the next aid station or to the finish line during the tour, we will have SAG wagons (vans with bike racks) on route each day! 
  • Remember, this is a tour and not a race. There’s no need to speed—take time to enjoy riding this beautiful route with friends and family! 

Gearing Up for the Ride 

A successful Courage Classic ride requires thoughtful prep and the correct gear. Here’s a list of required and recommended gear to stay safe and comfortable during your ride: 

  • Helmet (required) 
  • Your tour wristband (required) 
  • Rider bike plate & helmet stickers (required) 
  • Cash, ID, and relevant medical information (required) 
  • Jersey and bike shorts (with padding) 
  • Weather-appropriate clothing (ex. Light jacket, thermal sleeves, cycling gloves, sunglasses) 
  • 1-2 water bottles or hydration packs 
  • Sunscreen 
  • Anti-chafing cream 
  • Snacks & electrolytes 
  • Multi-tool 
  • Tire repair supplies, such as a spare tube, mini-pump, patches. Note: we will have mechanics at each aid station on route, but it’s always helpful to be prepared in case something happens on the road. 

Before the big weekend, it’s essential to have your bike professionally fitted and tuned to ensure a smooth and safe experience. We recommend visiting a local bike shop ahead of time. And good news! We’ve partnered with several trusted shops that will also be providing mechanical support along the route! 

Stop by any of their locations to get your bike checked out and ready to roll: 

Can’t Make it to the Shop? Do the A-B-C Check! 
If you’re not able to swing by a bike shop before the ride, be sure to run through the quick A-B-C Check: 

  • A is for Air: Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure.  
  • B is for Brakes: Squeeze both levers and ensure your brakes are responsive. 
  • C is for Chain: Inspect your chain for rust, dirt, or stiffness—clean and oil it if needed. 

Check out these videos to learn more about the ABC Quick Check and other bike safety & gear tips: 

Adaptive Equipment & Riding  

  • Need Adaptive Equipment? If you or a loved one require adaptive cycling equipment, Bicycle Colorado’s Adaptive Riding in Colorado page is an excellent resource. It offers information on various adaptive equipment types, including recumbent trikes, handcycles, tandem bikes, and wheelchair-compatible cycles. The page also provides guidance on modifications like seating, braking, and power assistance to suit diverse needs. Additionally, it highlights local retailers and programs specializing in adaptive cycling, such as Angletech Cycles in Colorado Springs, Colorado Multisport in Boulder, and Reactive Adaptations in Crested Butte. Whether you’re new to adaptive biking or seeking to enhance your experience, this resource serves as a valuable starting point for exploring accessible cycling options in Colorado.  

Team and Event Photos 

Check with your team captain for your team photo time. You will be notified by email when they are posted with a link to download. We will post event photos under the Event Weekend tab on the website after July 28.

Information Tent 

An Information Tent will be staffed each day of the event at tour check-in and the Start/Finish Line in Eagle’s Landing. You can also email courageclassic@childrenscoloradofoundation.org throughout the tour with non-urgent questions. Please know that response times will be delayed.  

Rider and volunteer check-in will be located at the Information Tent in Eagle’s Landing starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday.  

Information Tent hours:  

Friday, July 18 

  • 4-8 p.m. | Copper Conference Center – upper level  

Saturday, July 19 

  • 5:30 a.m.-5 p.m. | Eagle’s Landing/Center Village 

Sunday, July 20 

  • 5:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Eagle’s Landing/Center Village 

Weekend Schedule

Visit the Event Weekend page to find more information about all the fun activities taking place during the weekend!