RACE THE SUN IN THE ROCKIES

Winter Park Sunrise to Sunset capitalizes on two well-established strengths: the Sunrise to Sunset model and Winter Park’s deep mountain-bike roots. Luscious singletrack trails crisscross the mountains of Winter Park. How good are they, you ask? Good enough that USA Cycling is hosting the National Championships on the Winter Park trails once again for a third year in 2022.

Ideal for a 12-hour relay format, the section of trails used in Sunrise to Sunset are just above town, making access and relaxation between laps super easy. Winter Park Sunrise to Sunset will be held in conjunction with Crooked Gravel, so at day’s end racers of both persuasions will be partying together at the bandshell and surrounding park.

The 12-hour format is all about balancing camaraderie and challenge. Sure, some folks race it solo, but most choose to race in teams, from two-person up to five-person squads. As one teammate is out on course, banging out a 8-mile hot lap, the others are kicking back at camp, enjoying the festival atmosphere in the cool, high-mountain air.

While some events cater specifically to beginners or experts, Sunrise to Sunset offers fun for all; the level of challenge is self-selected by how fast you go!