Pine and Deckers: The 126 Vertical

The route that follows the smooth pavement of Colorado 126 between Pine and Deckers is for cyclists looking for tough training miles. Steep, sustained ascents on both the outbound and return legs will get the attention of even the most seasoned riders, although the scenery of the Pike National Forest serves as a welcome distraction.

If you're not in decent hill-climbing shape, you probably won't consider this ride fun. The more than 3,500 vertical feet of ascent is accomplished in about 25% of the total mileage.

The short section between Pine and Buffalo Creek follows the river and has narrow shoulders. From Buffalo Creek, the road rises for 3 miles. After leveling off, it widens to multi-lanes with huge shoulders; this is somewhat of a surprise because of the minimal auto traffic.

The major descent (ascent on the return trip) drops 4-plus steep miles to the South Platte River and on to Deckers.

Trip Planner

Route location: In southern Jefferson County between Pine and Deckers.

Surface: Smooth state road with wide shoulders. The shoulders are narrow in places between Pine and Buffalo Creek.

Distance: 36.0 miles.

Difficulty: Difficult.

Ride time: Allow at least three hours for the round trip.

Maps: Colorado state road map; U.S. Forest Service: Pike National Forest.

To reach Pine from Denver: Travel southwest on U.S. 285 through Conifer to Pine Junction. Travel south on Colorado 126 for 6 miles to Pine. A one-hour drive; park off the road.