Things You Should Know

 

Do I have to fundraise to ride in the Deer Creek Challenge?

No.  It is not neccessary to fundraise in order to ride in the Challenge, but if you raised just one penny for every foot you climb that day, you'd make a big difference for someone else.  Learn more.

 

Is registration refundable? 

Registration is not refundable.  View the rollover and transfer policy.


Can tandem bikes register for the ride?

Yes.  Thanks to a lively dialogue from YOU on the Deer Creek Challenge's Facebook page, we have added tandem cycling as an option.  Tandem riders must register individually and reference the name of thier riding partner when prompted through online registration or on the mail-in form.

 

Can I pick up my registration packet before the event?

Yes.  You can pick up your packet on the morning of event day.  You can also choose to pickup your packet early, you MUST select an early packet pickup location when you register.   If you miss early packet pickup, we'll have your registration items ready when you arrive on ride day. View packet pickup locations and times.

 

Will commemorative jerseys be available?

Absolutely.  View jersey design, pricing and rules for earning the century jersey.


How will you know if I complete the century course and earn the century jersey?

We will have checkpoints placed strategically along the course where we will mark bib numbers.  Only completed bibs can claim their Century jersey, and your marked bib makes a great momento.  View jersey details.


Will there be mechanical support at the start of the event?

Many mechanics from Bicycle Village will be on hand before and during the ride to handle your last-minute needs.  Please be prepared to handle your own minor repairs and flats. View support details.


What gear should I bring?

View a complete supply list.


Will there be food and water before the event?

Yes.  CLIF Shotblocks, water, electrolyte drink and coffee will be available at the start.



Are private SAG wagons allowed on the course?

No.  But we've got your back.  View complete support details.



What will the weather be like?

Expect temperatures to be in the upper 50’ to low 60’s at the start with normal daytime highs in the upper 70’s to 80’s.  Mountain weather is highly variable, so be prepared for thunderstorms and even rain. View supply list to help you prepare.

 

Can I camp nearby?

There are some good camping spots close by in Chatfield State Park.  View lodging and camping details.


How early can I start the ride?

View a complete schedule.



How far apart are the aid stations?

The distance between aid stations varies between 7.4 miles and 16 miles based on difficult of that section of the course.  Each aid station will have mechanical support, food, water, rehydration products, toilet facilities and emergency communication capabilities.  Aid stations are the same regardless of the course you are riding. Please note that not all items will be available at each aid station - view support details.

 

Do any of the courses cross Hwy 285?

No – we do not cross Hwy 285.  We go under it two times.  On the Metric and Century courses you pass under Hwy 285 as you go up North Turkey Creek Road and you pass under it again in the same place after completing the Murphy Gulch and Parmalee Gulch segment.

 

Do we ride on Hwy 285?

Yes – for approximately 3 miles between Parmalee Gulch Rd and North Turkey Creek Rd.  You will be riding on the shoulder lane of the road (it will have been freshly swept to make certain there is no debris). This lane is approximately 18 feet wide and will be separated from traffic by “traffic delineators” – aka glow posts.

 

Will Deer Creek Canyon be closed to cars?

No – however it will have traffic restrictions.  In order to provide the safest course possible vehicle traffic on Deer Creek Canyon will be limited to local residents and event participants for the entire day.  Nonresidents in vehicles and cyclists not participating in the event will be detoured around this section of the course.  In addition to significantly reduced vehicle traffic this also will guarantee that we don’t have cyclists going up the canyon and coming down the canyon at the same time.

 

Do I have to meet waypoint deadlines?

Yes. View waypoint deadlines.



My registration packet has a bib number and helmet sticker – do I have to wear these?

In a word – yes.  The bib number should be worn on your back.  The helmet sticker needs to be affixed to the front of your helmet.  Don’t worry – it is a peel and stick label so you won’t need tape.  There are several important reasons why you need to make certain both of these are in place for the entire ride.



Bike racks? I like the sound of that.  Tell me more.

Your trusty bike is often more expensive than your first car and it needs to work flawlessly in order for you to get the cool century jersey.  Laying it in the dirt at the side of the road at an aid station invites untold problems – from broken derailers to somebody inadvertently stepping on your wheel. Each AID station will have bike racks conveniently located so you can rack your bike, get what you need, and be safely on your way.  There will be a secure bike location at the Start/Finish/Expo with bike racks where you can store your bike.  You will, however, need your bib number to get your bike out of the secure bike area at the Expo.

 

106 miles and no headphones?  Really?

Really.  No headphones. Please.



Benefitting

Mountain Resource Center




 

Bicycle Village

Clif Bar 9 News Denver Securitas Eldorado Springs

 

Native Beer Competitor Clif Shot

 

 

Deer Creek Challenge is a Downing Event