Old Man Winter 2025 – Rated

Name: Old Man Winter 2025 – Rated
Start: 2025-02-02T00:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-02-02T23:59:59-05:00
Location: Lyons, CO

February 2, 2025

Updated November 1, 2024

For any cyclist looking for a winter adventure, the Old Man Winter Bike Rally & Run is an event organized by Adventure Fit that should be high on your list. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lyons, Colorado, this endurance festival offers mixed-terrain adventures for all levels of runners and riders. Scheduled for February, this event promises a unique combination of challenging courses, a vibrant community atmosphere, and rewarding experiences that cater to competitive athletes and recreational participants alike. Strambecco rates Old Man Winter Rally as one of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Rocky Mountains region and one of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in Colorado.

What sets the Old Man Winter Rally apart is its inclusive nature, welcoming runners and cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner, a gravel grinder, or a weekend warrior, you'll find a category that suits your abilities and ambitions. In addition to the physical challenge, participants will enjoy live music, bonfires, food vendors, and a lively post-race party, making it a memorable winter festival for everyone involved.

The Old Man Winter Bike Rally & Run began as a nod to founder Josh Kravetz's winter training rides with friends in Texas, known as the “600 Minute Ride.” After moving to Boulder, Josh was inspired by Colorado's winter terrain and created a rally to bring people together for a rugged, adventurous ride in any weather. True to its origins, the Rally is about camaraderie, adventure, and getting outside—whether in snow boots or shorts. Following the success of the first year, a 10K run, a 5K, and a combo were added, as well as an epic after-party to celebrate the day’s achievements.

Weather is a defining element of Old Man Winter, adding unique challenges and unforgettable memories every year. From sunny, 60-degree days to snow-covered trails, every event brings its own surprises, capturing the spirit of adventure. Boulder’s typical February weather averages around 45°F and sunny, but as always, Old Man Winter may have other plans!

Below you will find information on course details, lodging, dining, and other outdoor activities to do while in town for Old Man Winter Rally.

Event & Course Info

The Old Man Winter Bike Rally & Run is primarily a mixed-terrain cycling event held in and around the picturesque town of Lyons, Colorado near Boulder. Designed for cyclists of all levels, the rally features three main cycling events: a challenging 100K (75mi) ride, a more moderate 40 mile ride, and a 23 mile event, perfect for those looking to dip their toe into winter mixed terrain adventure riding. All courses showcase the stunning landscapes of the region, incorporating dirt trails, gravel roads, and scenic routes that highlight the beauty and rugged terrain of Colorado.

For the Old Man Winter Bike Rally, riders bring everything from road bikes to fat bikes, but gravel or cyclocross bikes are ideal due to the mixed terrain. Tires should be at least 25mm wide, and knobby treads are recommended for traction. If conditions are dry, a road bike with wide tires could offer speed, though a fat bike will win in fun and high-fives!

Check out the new course options for the 2025 event:

75 Mile Bike
Starting at 9:00 a.m., this intense course challenges experienced riders with over 5,000 feet of climbing, gravel, snow, and stunning canyon scenery. New this year, the route includes a loop around Boulder Reservoir and climbs through Lefthand Canyon up to the snowy Rowena trail, requiring off-the-bike action. Aid stations along the way keep you fueled, while the course’s two timed sections add a competitive edge. The descent down Sunshine Canyon provides a scenic untimed break before climbing back up Linden and tackling twisty downhills. Be prepared for rugged winter conditions, and note there’s a time cutoff at Rowena—reach it by 12:30 p.m. to continue.

40 Mile Bike
The 40-mile course, starting at noon, is a fresh route for 2025, ideal for those looking for beautiful views without intense climbs. Cyclists enjoy rolling gravel roads with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, a loop around Boulder Reservoir, and scenic sections through Boulder County. This route is non-technical, with enough variety to keep things challenging but accessible. Aid stations at Boulder Res and Butter Ranch provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere for riders to refuel and recharge before the final stretch to Lyons. This route also serves as the bike segment for the Run/Bike Combo.

23 Mile Bike
New in 2025 and beginning at 12:30 p.m., this 23-mile route is perfect for riders dipping into winter mixed-terrain cycling. With rolling gravel roads and manageable climbs, the course offers scenic views and an inviting aid station at mile 15, setting a relaxed pace for those new to winter cycling. Finish the ride with a celebration in Lyons and join the camaraderie of fellow winter adventurers!

At the Old Man Winter Bike Rally, prizes go beyond the podium, offering participants exciting chances to win throughout the event. Cash prizes are awarded to the top finishers on the 75-mile bike course and select events, while all categories have access to generous prizes and unique “Snowflake” rewards.

75 Mile Bike Course: Only the top male and female finishers are eligible for cash prizes, with $3,000 split among the top five in the 100K ride and $1,000 divided for the 10K run across male, female, and non-binary categories. The top three finishers in other categories will receive over $1,000 in product and gift-card prizes (minimum three participants per category).
Snowflake Prizes: Participants can collect “Snowflakes” scattered along the course, each holding a guaranteed prize. These range from sponsor gift cards and water bottles to premium items like custom bike frames. It’s a fun, inclusive way for everyone to take home something memorable—one Snowflake prize per person.

The awards ceremony will take place at 3:30 pm, followed by live music and other festivities. The event will feature bonfires, food vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere, making the post-race celebration an integral part of the Old Man Winter experience.

In addition to the cycling events, the Old Man Winter Rally also includes trail running races—a 10K and a 5K—both starting from Bohn Park. These runs offer scenic routes with varying degrees of difficulty and are supported with aid stations and medical assistance. For those that just can't decide, the Old Man Winter Bike Rally & Run offers a dynamic 10km Run / 40-mile Bike Combo, perfect for multi-sport athletes or friends looking for a team experience. Participants can tackle both events solo or team up for a relay—one person runs the 10K, starting at 10:30 a.m., and the other takes on the 40-mile bike ride at noon. This unique setup provides ample time to change gear between events, so no need to stress about transitions; only your time on each course counts. The day also includes a fun kids' kick-bike race and various family-friendly activities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for participants and spectators alike.

Area Accommodations & Things to Do

Where to Stay in Lyons

If you're traveling in from out of town for Old Man Winter Rally, your best bet for lodging is to book a vacation rental as the in-town options are limited to the A-Lodge, WeeCasa Tiny Home Resort, or camping at LaVern Johnson Park. There are also some amazing unique camping experiences in the area. If you are a hotel person, it's recommended you stay in one of the nearby towns of Boulder (25 min), Estes Park and RMNP (30min), or Longmont (20min).

Dining in Lyons

Lyons, CO, and the surrounding area boast a vibrant culinary scene, featuring farm-to-table restaurants, eclectic cafes, and craft breweries that highlight locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes. The diverse dining options reflect the region's community-focused spirit and commitment to sustainable, delicious cuisine. Local favorites include Marigold, Moxie Bread Co., and Mojo Taqueria.

Outdoor Activities around Lyons

Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Lyons, Colorado, transforms into a winter wonderland in February, offering a host of activities for outdoor athletes seeking adventure. One of the top activities to enjoy is hiking, mountain biking or snowshoeing in the nearby Hall Ranch Open Space. This area provides extensive trails that meander through stunning landscapes, featuring rugged rock formations and expansive meadows blanketed in snow. The Bitterbrush Trail is particularly popular, offering a moderate challenge with its 7.7-mile loop and rewarding athletes with panoramic views of the St. Vrain Valley. Recreating here not only offers a rigorous workout but also the opportunity to experience the serene beauty of a winter landscape.

Heil Valley Ranch is another excellent option for winter sports enthusiasts. This extensive open space, located just a short drive from Lyons, features miles of trails perfect for both novice and experienced athletes. The Ponderosa Loop is a favorite, providing a 5.2-mile round trip of trails that wind through ponderosa pine forests and open meadows. The undulating terrain offers a good mix of gentle slopes and more challenging sections, making it an ideal spot for a full-body workout in the crisp mountain air.

For those who prefer more vertical challenges, ice climbing in the St. Vrain Canyon offers an exhilarating experience. This canyon, with its numerous frozen waterfalls, becomes a prime location for ice climbing in February. One popular spot is the Hidden Falls, a beginner-friendly ice climbing route that offers a 40-foot vertical ascent. More experienced climbers can tackle the 100-foot pitch of the St. Vrain Falls, which provides a more demanding climb. Climbers need to ensure they have the appropriate gear, including ice axes, crampons, and helmets, and should consider hiring a local guide for safety and expertise. The frozen waterfalls and icy terrain present both a physical and mental challenge, making it a thrilling adventure for seasoned athletes.

We would be remiss to not mention that Lyons is very close to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and Boulder which both offer endless options of activities for outdoor athletes and enthusiasts. In addition, Eldora Mountain Resort is within a 1 hour drive from Lyons offering downhill skiing, uphill skinning, and nordic skiing.

Lyons, CO, in February, is a paradise for outdoor athletes looking to embrace winter sports. Whether it's snowshoeing through the scenic Hall Ranch, cross-country skiing in Heil Valley Ranch, or ice climbing in the St. Vrain Canyon, Lyons offers a variety of activities that cater to different skill levels and preferences. These outdoor pursuits highlight the rugged beauty and adventurous spirit of this charming mountain town, providing unforgettable experiences for athletes amidst the stunning winter landscapes.

Related Events

The organizer of the Old Man Winter Rally, Adventure Fit, also produces the premier Salida 76 taking place in September.

For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of Colorado and the broader Rocky Mountain region, be sure to check out our full list of Strambecco Best-rated guides: