Last Updated April 2, 2024
The Pikes Peak APEX is a 3-day mountain bike stage race in Colorado Springs that consistently makes our list of the Best Mountain Biking Events in Colorado and the Rockies. The Apex is the real deal, with the race attracting pros and amateurs from all over Colorado and the world. Over the three days, riders are timed and are racing for a prize purse of over $25,000 dollars. The event is produced by the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation who also puts on the esteemed Cycle to the Summit road biking race up Pikes Peak. There is also a 5K & 10K trail running event available on Sunday for those that prefer to get involved with the APEX activities on their own two feet!
Event & Course Info
This multi-day mountain biking challenge offers participants a thrilling experience, combining the mesmerizing alpine singletrack typical of Pikes Peak, dirt roads, and jeep trails. Cyclists have the flexibility to participate for a single day, two days, or the complete three-day challenge. What sets this event apart is its well-thought-out routes that ensure the terrain is challenging but not overly technical. This makes the APEX a magnet not only for seasoned professionals but also for amateur cyclists yearning for a once-in-a-lifetime endurance trial amid the Rockies.
The Pikes Peak APEX bridges the gap between the technical demands of the Leadville 100 and the Breck Epic, and offers a balanced mountain biking experience. The event kickstarts with a 45-60 minute time trial prologue on the first day, serving as a warm-up. However, the next two days elevate the challenge with up to 40 miles of riding, integrating stretches of speedy dirt roads.
Stage 1: Palmer Park Prologue Covering 11.5 miles with a climb of 927 feet, this stage is set in Palmer Park, one of Colorado Springs’ favorite local destinations. While the route promises a rich mix of slickrock sandstone, rocky singletrack, and purpose-built flow trail, it ensures overly technical sections are avoided. What’s exhilarating is that the park will be exclusively available for participants, a rarity for most events.
Stage 2: Rampart Reservoir A 30-mile trail with over 4,000 ft. of ascent awaits cyclists. The journey starts in Woodland Park, traverses the singletrack in Lovell Gulch, and later leads below the Rampart Reservoir dam, only to ascend again on Shubarth Trail. This stage promises not only a heart-pumping ride but also jaw-dropping views.
Stage 3: Cheyenne Canyon The grand finale takes place over 21.1 miles with a climb of 4,034 feet. Starting at America the Beautiful Park in downtown Colorado Springs, it winds through Bear Creek Regional Park, up High Drive, and then through the exciting trails of Daniels Pass and Captain Jacks.
The Pikes Peak APEX hosts some of the most well-organized and top tier logistics, so rest assured there will be high-level and stocked aid stations, good trail markings and friendly staff. Aid stations stocked with food and drink are strategically placed on stages 2 and 3. In case of emergencies, Centura Health, the Hybl Center, and the El Paso County Search and Rescue are ready to step in. While riders are encouraged to be self-reliant, REI mechanics will be stationed at all aid points for any unexpected technical glitches.
Post the ride, participants can wind down and celebrate at the APEX after party hosted in America the Beautiful Park, with complimentary beers from Fat Tire. Professional riders can eye the $25,000 purse, equally split between Men/Open and Women. Stage winners from these categories will receive $100.
The event is versatile in terms of bike choice. However, given the rugged single tracks, gravel bikes might not be the best pick. Bike wash facilities are available on days 2 and 3, ensuring your bike remains in top shape. Check out the official 2023 Rider Guide for all of the nitty gritty details
The Pikes Peak APEX is one of the most well-attended mountain bike events/stage races in the United States, from amateurs to pros alike, making it one that the Strambecco editing staff highly recommends.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
The lodging options for the event include Kinship Landing, the Element Hotel and the Best Western Executive Inn. Due to the size of the city, you will have plenty of vacation rentals to choose from, if you prefer to have a more home-like experience while in town for Pikes Peak APEX. For those who appreciate the simplicity of sleeping under the stars, the Pike National Forest boasts approximately 250 well-equipped campsites, promising nights of serenity and connection with nature.
Downtown Colorado Springs boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that caters to every palate. From upscale bistros to trendy cafes, this area is a gastronomic haven offering an array of flavors and styles. Visitors can savor locally sourced ingredients in farm-to-table eateries, indulge in international cuisine spanning from Mexican to Japanese, and explore innovative fusion concepts that redefine traditional dishes. Some local favorites worth visiting are The Burrowing Owl, Sweet Elizabeth’s for a treat, The Rabbit Hole, and Four by Brother Luck.
Colorado Springs is 61 miles south of Denver and is the state’s second most populous city. Sitting near the base of Pikes Peak, it offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventurers to enjoy. Encompassing a vast expanse of nearly 1,000,000 acres of accessible public land, the Pike National Forest is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. With an extensive network of trails that stretches over 225 miles, there’s a path for every type of explorer.
With its stunning natural landscapes of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, it is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Favorite trails are the Manitou Incline, Garden of the Gods, and Barr Trail, which leads to the summit of Pikes Peak. These trails offer breathtaking views, unique rock formations, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Colorado Springs is also a fantastic destination for mountain biking, thanks to its diverse terrain and well-maintained trails. The North Cheyenne Cañon Park and Palmer Park are popular spots for mountain biking, offering a mix of technical trails and scenic beauty.
Lastly, known for its iconic rock formations, Colorado Springs provides excellent opportunities for rock climbers. Garden of the Gods is a renowned climbing destination, featuring towering sandstone spires and challenging routes for climbers of all abilities. The nearby Red Rock Canyon Open Space and Shelf Road also offer great climbing options. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, there are routes to suit your skill level.
Other popular mountain towns at the base of Pikes Peak that are worth exploring are Manitou Springs, Woodland Park, Cripple Creek and Cañon City.
Related Events
Other premiere events that take place in Colorado Springs that we recommend in addition to the already mentioned, Cycle to the Summit, is 719 Ride from Gran Fondo National Series which is also part of the Gran Fondo World Tour. Both events we consider to be some of the Best Road Cycling Events in Colorado and the Rockies.
For multi-sport athletes, check out other Strambecco best-rated events taking place in Colorado, such as SBT GRVL , Crooked Gravel from The Ride Collective, Dirty Edge Gravel part of Adventure Fest and produced by Gemini Adventures – all of these events we consider to be some of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in Colorado and the Rockies. Trail runners will appreciate Silver Rush 50 Run which is part of the Leadville Race Series, a Leadville Trail 100 qualifier, and is produced by Life Time Events or Mountain Rats Trail Runs organized by Gemini Adventures – all of these our team considers to be some of the Best Trail Running Events in the Rockies.
