USA PRO CYCLING CHALLENGE 2014 Race 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS Join us for the 4th edition of America s Race in the Colorado Rockies, the cradle of America s cycling legacy. The greatness of past pros still echoes through these lofty passes and canyons. Ride portions of the official race course on Trek Domane 5.9 carbon road bikes with worldclass support of your guides as cycling history unfolds right before your eyes. Take in the best of Colorado s mountain towns like Aspen and Crested Butte and climb its spectacular mountain tops like Maroon Bells and Pikes Peak. With exclusive and fully-catered viewing locations as well as unmatched VIP access to the Trek Factory Racing team, we have your front row seats to all the race action of this homegrown USA Pro Cycling Challenge. ASPEN CRESTED BUTTE WYOMING DENVER COLORADO NEW MEXICO COLORADO SPRINGS Meet Trek Factory Racing team members for Q&A, autographs and photos with your VIP access to the Team Presentation in Snowmass. Explore Colorado s natural wonders and most photographed landscapes by bike, including Paonia State Park and Garden of the Gods. Watch the pros as they battle in Aspen during the Stage 1 circuit race and watch the Stage 3 summit finish on Monarch Mountain from a VIP hospitality tent. Conquer your first Colorado fourteener with spectacular climbs to iconic Maroon Bells and Pikes Peak. Receive a Bontrager Trek Factory Racing team kit and customized Road ID. May the road rise up to meet you! Erin Berard USA Pro Cycling Challenge Trip Expert TREK TRAVEL CYCLING VACATIONS OF A LIFETIME 613 Williamson St., Ste. 207 Madison, WI 53703 USA 866.464.8735 trektravel.com sales@trektravel.com TABLE OF CONTENTS: Welcome & Map v Itinerary v Trip Accommodations v Arriving & Departing v Before & After Recommendations v What s Included v Essential Travel Guide v Page 1
ITINERARY DAY 1: SUNDAY, AUGUST 17, 2014 VIP Access to Team Presentation: Snowmass Basic Option: Aspen to Snowmass Loop Approximately 22 miles with 1,980 feet of climbing Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the The Limelight Hotel (355 S. Monarch St., Aspen, Colorado) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Your Pro race adventure begins in the world-famous downtown Aspen, Colorado where a gourmet lunch and sweeping views will greet you. You will then receive a professional fitting on your high tech Trek Domane bike. Your guides will spend some time familiarizing you with your bike for the week. Then we take to the road for a short warm-up ride from Aspen to Snowmass where you will enjoy VIP access to the Team Presentation. Get some face time and first-hand insight into the world of pro racing and team strategy for the USA Pro Cycling Challenge that kicks off tomorrow. Meet Trek Factory Racing team members for a Trek Travel exclusive Q&A, photo, and autograph session. After the excitement of the Team Presentation, we will return to the Limelight Hotel to kick off our own trip in true Colorado mountain style, at our very own private 3-course beer dinner. Featuring one of the finest local breweries around, you will enjoy the freshest local ingredients paired with specialty brews. During dinner, your guides will fill you in on the details of the week to come. Hotel The Limelight Hotel www.limelighthotel.com DAY 2: MONDAY, AUGUST 18, 2014 Live Viewing of USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 1 with VIP Access to Trek Travel Hospitality Party: Aspen Basic Option: Aspen to Maroon Bells Return Approximately 21 miles with 1,800 feet of climbing After breakfast we will ride from Aspen up the iconic twin peaks of the Maroon Bells, Colorado s most photographed landscape. Settle into your climbing rhythm and for the 11 mile ascent to the picturesque summit. At the top, stop and take in the rugged beauty of these fourteener peaks and hydrate at the support van before your well-deserved scenic descent back to Aspen to enjoy lunch at Trek Travel s Hospitality VIP Stage 1 viewing in Aspen as the pros complete their circuits. Meet Trek Factory Racing team members and representatives after the stage. Tonight the evening is yours to revel in the day s exciting live race action and to explore the buzzing streets and great local cuisine of Aspen with dinner on your own. Personal Cycling Gear: On your trip Trek Travel provides a helmet, flat or caged pedals & a Bontrager saddle. Beyond what is provided on your trip, you are welcome to bring your own gear: a helmet, seat, pedals, shoes, etc. Just label and pack it in a separate, easily accessible bag. Remember also to bring spare cleats for your clipless pedals, as replacements are difficult to find during your trip. Hotel The Limelight Hotel www.limelighthotel.com Page 2
ITINERARY DAY 3: TUESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2014 Live Viewing of USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 2: Crested Butte Basic Option: Redstone to Crested Butte Approximately 60 miles with 6,635 feet of climbing Short Option: Paonia State Park to Crested Butte Approximately 35 miles with 4,400 feet of climbing Avid Option: Carbondale to Crested Butte Approximately 77 miles with 7,500 feet of climbing Test your mettle on Stage 2 of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge towards the finish at Crested Butte, the historic coal mining turned ski and bike town. After a short shuttle from Aspen to Carbondale, we ll ride to Paonia State Park where pristine water and peaceful alpine scenery welcome us for a light picnic and a stellar view of the Ragged Mountains. Our journey continues up and over Kebler Pass to Crested Butte. Feel the electrified crowd roar as they chant and cheer you up to the top as they wait for the pros! After your exhilarating ride, park your bike and enjoy our Trek Travel viewing location complete with a fresh change of clothes and refreshments. Relax and refuel in comfort before diving into the crowd to claim your spot on the course to cheer the pros as they each fly by on their way to the finish. Enjoy a short walk balk to the hotel where you may decide to explore the hotel s Wildflower Spa for some pampering. We will reconvene later for drinks before enjoying dinner together at a renowned Crested Butte wine-bar and bistro. Hotel The Grand Lodge Crested Butte http://www.skicb.com/lodging/grand-lodge DAY 4: WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2014 Live Viewing of USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 3 Finish from Race VIP Hospitality Tent: Monarch Mountain Basic Option: Gunnison to Monarch Mountain Approximately 43 miles with 3,900 feet of climbing Rider Level Rider Type: 4 Terrain: mountainous, steep climbing Average Daily Distance: 30 miles Average Daily Climbing: 3,900 feet Get ready to feel like a pro as you ride from Gunnison on the final stretches of Monarch Mountain s mountaintop stage finish! Cheering fans will again line your ride route as you gain 4,000 feet in elevation and as excitement builds for the pro cyclists who will follow. Grind your way to the summit on the race course and try to cross the same official finish line the racers will at the end of their long battle today. At the top, a villagewide celebration awaits where you ll cap off your unforgettable Stage 3 experience with VIP race viewing access to the official finish. Watch as cycling history is made right in front of you when today s arduous race culminates in a climactic uphill battle as the athletes dig deep for every last ounce of energy in the dash to the finish. After all the excitement we will transfer to Colorado Springs, where you can rest and relax after all today s climbing at a bistro of your choice. Hotel The Mining Exchange Hotel www.miningexchangehotel.com Page 3
ITINERARY DAY 5: THURSDAY, AUGUST 21, 2014 Basic Option: Manitou Springs to Pikes Peak Approximately 24 miles with 7,900 feet of climbing Short Option: Pikes Peak Hill Climb Route Approximately 12 miles with 4,700 feet of climbing Avid Option: Manitou Springs to Pikes Peak Return Approximately 47 miles with 8,300 feet of climbing Today you ll tackle a Colorado Classic the renowned Pikes Peak! This is one climb for your bucket list! From Colorado Springs, we will begin this epic climb at Manitou Springs. Pikes Peak tops out at 14,115 feet in elevation and is one of Colorado s 54 fourteeners. This spectacular 47-mile ride has an elevation gain of 8,300 feet! You will be captivated not only by the incredible beauty of the landscape but by the amazing experience of conquering the climb fully supported by your guides and fellow riders. Climb through the famous switchbacks known as the W s because of their shape on the mountain. Refuel along the way with a signature Trek Travel gourmet picnic and stop at the Visitor s Center for a coffee and some photo opportunities. After a lightning descent, spin back to the hotel where tonight you will gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell feast in historic downtown Colorado Springs to celebrate the triumphs of the day and your American pro race adventure of a lifetime! Hotel The Mining Exchange Hotel www.miningexchangehotel.com DAY 6: FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2014 Farewell Ride: Garden of the Gods Loop Approximately 10 miles with 1,000 feet of climbing Thank Your Guides, By Tipping: Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. Industry standard is 5-10% of the trip price which will be divided by your guide team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service. This morning you ll have the opportunity for one last short ride to the red rock garden known as Garden of the Gods. Take in the views of these Colorado classic sandstone cliffs and spires. Or, you may choose to sleep in or take a stroll around the charming historical district of Colorado Springs for any last minute souvenirs. However you spend the last morning of your trip, depart the hotel at your leisure with a suitcase full of pro race memories and legs that have met and beat the cycling challenges of the American Rockies. You ll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at The Mining Exchange Hotel. You ll then shuttle 1-2 hours, depending on traffic, to Denver International Airport (DIA) to arrive at approximately 1:00 PM. Please allow adequate connection time for your continuing travel plans to accommodate possible traffic delays. Page 4
ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS LODGING In every region we travel, we uncover the area s best and most delightful accommodations. On our USA Pro Cycling Challenge Race trip, you will stay in three world-class hotels all nestled in the heart of the race action, offering mountain elegance and first class service. The Limelight Hotel Aspen, Colorado Nestled steps from Aspen Mountain and just beside Wagner Park, the Limelight is located within walking distance of Aspen s renowned landmarks, restaurants and hotspots. No need for vehicles: complimentary transportation to and from the Aspen Airport, as well as through town, whisks you back and forth from Aspen s most inviting hotel. 355 S. Monarch St. 970 925 3025 www.limelighthotel.com The Grand Lodge Crested Butte Crested Butte, Colorado The Grand Lodge Crested Butte offers mountain hospitality at its finest. Located in this historic coal mining turned ski and bike town, the hotel is newly renovated offering comfortable and spacious accommodations with amenities and services that will ensure a great stress-free vacation. Crested Butte is the official Wildflower Capital of Colorado. Why not enjoy the heated indoor/outdoor pool or just relax in the outdoor hot tub with outstanding views of Crested Butte Mountain? Looking to melt away stiff muscles after an adventurous day of cycling? Try a Rocky Mountain Hot Stone massage at the Wildflower Spa. Crested Butte is a summer destination that will amaze you in beauty and adventure. Trip Changes: Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience. 6 Emmons Loop 970-349-2337 http://www.skicb.com/lodging/grand-lodge The Mining Exchange Hotel Colorado Springs, Colorado The Mining Exchange is a boutique luxury hotel combining history and modern elegance. Built in 1902 as the stock exchange, it was renovated and opened in 2012 as The Mining Exchange. Elegant yet casual, the hotel offers the perfect ambience to relax after a long day of riding and cheering on the pros. Located in downtown Colorado Springs within walking distance of shopping, restaurants, and entertainment. 8 S. Nevada Ave. 719 323 2051 www.miningexchangehotel.com Page 5
ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS DINING Trek Travel scopes out unique and delicious dining locations, and we usually leave at least one meal for you to explore on your own. If you have any special dietary preferences, be sure that you have informed your Trek Travel Trip Consultant before you leave for your trip. We will do our best to accommodate your dietary requests. On our USA Pro Cycling Challenge trip, picnic style lunches will offer a bounty of local specialties to keep you fueled throughout your ride. Dinners will emphasize seasonal and local foods, prepared to highlight the fresh flavors that Colorado has to offer. Nowhere else will you find such a world-class dining experience concentrated in small walkable settings like Aspen, Crested Butte, and Colorado Springs. From five star restaurants to the local micro-breweries, Colorado offers everything you could ask for. Riding through the vineyards, seeing castles, chateaus, and awesome views. Great support on the roads. Good selection of roads traveled to minimize traffic issues. Wonderful scenery. Overall, fantastic. Dennis Page 6
ARRIVING & DEPARTING HOW TO GET THERE Flights We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Denver International Airport (DIA) followed by a short flight to Aspen Pitkin County Airport (ASE). If you are staying at the pickup hotel, The Limelight Hotel offers a complimentary on-call shuttle for guests to and from the airport (ASE). Please call 970 925 3025 to arrange for the service upon arrival in Aspen and allow 20 to 30 minutes for pick up. Alternatively, from DIA, you can choose to fly into Eagle Country Airport (EGE) and take a one hour and a half shuttle to Aspen. Colorado Mountain Express (CME) operates private and shared shuttles from all the airports to Aspen destinations daily. For more information call their 24-hour reservation line at 1 800 525 6363. MEETING TIME AND LOCATION The Limelight Hotel Aspen, Colorado Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the The Limelight Hotel (355 S. Monarch St., Aspen, Colorado) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You ll enjoy a taste of this fun town with your new travel companions, followed by a professional bike fititng to ensure a great ride on your Trek Domane. You ll then test out your new wheels on your first short ascent from Aspen to Snowmass, for your VIP experience at the Team Presentation. Meet Trek Factory Racing team members for Q&A, autographs, and photos while taking in the excitement of this year s race. Enjoy our Travel Agent Services! For a nominal fee, our dedicated Travel Agent can reserve air travel, hotels, rental cars, train tickets and additional tours and sightseeing before or after your trip. Call Trek Travel at 866 464 8735 and choose option #2 to speak with our in house Travel Agent. If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, The Limelight Hotel (907 925 3025), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. DEPARTING TIME AND LOCATION The Mining Exchange Hotel Colorado Springs, Colorado You ll say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at The Mining Exchange Hotel. You ll then shuttle 1-2 hours, depending on traffic, to Denver International Airport (DIA) to arrive at approximately 1:00 PM. Please allow adequate connection time for your continuing travel plans to accommodate possible traffic delays. Page 7
BEFORE & AFTER ASPEN The summer season in Aspen Snowmass is a time to take in the abundant Colorado sunshine and to enjoy the fresh mountain air in the great outdoors. Some of the best summer activities include biking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, jeep tours, and a number of other fun outdoor activities. It s a season that is teeming with events, from music events to cultural events that enrich the mind, body, and spirit! With its cascading mountains, endless outdoor adventures, and worldclass restaurants, Aspen is a playground for a discerning crowd. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel: Mountain House Lodge 905 East Hopkins Avenue 970 920 2550 MountainHouseLodge.com ~$230 Surrounded by the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, the Mountain House Lodge welcomes you with rustic elegance and exceptional service. Located in the heart of the historic Downtown Aspen, only a few steps away from Aspen s renowned shops, restaurants and world-class cycling. The Hearthstone House 134 E Hyman Ave Aspen, CO 81611 970 925 7632 www.hearthstonehouse.com ~$250 The Hearthstone House lodge combines an intimate, quiet setting with the convenience of an ideal location right in the Heart of Aspen. The Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired architecture creates an atmosphere of cozy elegance, and the hotel is situated only two blocks from the center of town walking distance to restaurants and shopping! Last minute question? Your guides will be available 24 hours before the start of your trip. You ll receive their mobile numbers in an e-mail one week before the trip start date. In the event you don t receive this email, please contact our sales team: sales@trektravel.com or 866.464.8735. The Limelight Hotel 355 S Monarch St 970 925 3025 www.limelighthotel.com ~$300 Nestled steps from Aspen Mountain and just beside Wagner Park, the Limelight is located within walking distance to all of Aspen s renowned landmarks, restaurants and hotspots. No need for vehicles: complimentary transportation to and from the Aspen Airport, as well as through town, whisks you back and forth from Aspen s most inviting hotel. DENVER Denver during late summer offers ideal weather with clear blue skies and temperatures in the mid- 80s. Visitors enjoy a variety of activities, both indoor and outdoor, from world-class museum exhibits to 850 miles of off-road, paved bike trails. Known for its diverse neighborhoods and active foodie scene, the city s one-of-a-kind boutiques, local farm-to-table bistros and craft breweries are sure to entertain. Denver s cool night air encourages after-hours summer activity, from rooftop patio dining and music to outdoor cinema. Just beyond the city is Denver s big backyard the Rocky Mountain Front Range combining amazing natural landscapes, outdoor adventures and famous old west history. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel: Page 8
BEFORE & AFTER Warwick Hotel 1776 Grant St. 303 861 2000 www.warwickdenver.com ~$199 The incomparable warmth, comfort and casual elegance of this special hotel make the Warwick Denver Hotel your dream escape in the heart of downtown Denver. Hotel Monaco 1717 Champa St. 303 296 1717 www.monaco-denver.com/ ~$210 Hotel Monaco exemplifies urban adventure in the heart of Denver, Colorado. From an enviable downtown location to outstanding service and accommodations, this boutique hotel offers an unparalleled stay in the Mile High City. Hotel Teatro 1100 Fourteenth St. 303 228 1100 http://www.hotelteatro.com ~$189 Located in downtown Denver Colorado, across from the Denver Center for Performing Arts, Denver s luxury boutique hotel offers exquisite lodging accommodations for the business traveler or for perfect romantic weekend getaways. Thank To call Your the Guides, trip anything By Tipping: short of amazing is an Gratuities understatement. for your Trek Everything Travel guides was as are promised not included and in the your surprises trip price. that Industry were standard thrown in is 5-10% along of the the way trip put price it right which will over be divided the top. by your guide Jim team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service. Page 9
WHAT S INCLUDED INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE Dining & Lodging Unique accommodations during the USA Pro Cycling Challenge trip Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, social hour on some evenings, 3 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for each day s ride Support Dedicated Trip Consultants to answer all of your questions and aid you in choosing a vacation that suits you Email sent to you one week prior to your trip with guide contact details, meet time & location and any final information The knowledge, support and camaraderie of experienced guides Daily route support, detailed route guide, highlighted map, van support All transportation and luggage transfers during the trip Gear The use of a Trek Domane 5.9 carbon road bike, or Trek Domane 5.9 Women s Specific Design carbon road bike (limited selection) (visit www.trektravel.com/ridethebest.php for more details) The use of a Garmin while on your trip Complimentary Trek Travel merchandise, Trek Factory Racing team kit, and customized Road ID Bike computer, a map case, and stocked seat pack for use during your trip Two Trek Travel water bottles for you to keep Choice of multiple stem lengths, seat posts and saddles for a custom fit The Best Bikes, Period: Bike vacations are more fun when bikes ride and fit well. With the best in the industry and our knowledgeable and well trained guides our bikes always fit and ride smoothly. Enjoy $300 off a select Trek bike after you travel with us. Activities Gratuities for all scheduled restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip Live Race Viewings at Stage 1 Aspen Circuit Race, at Stage 2 Aspen to Crested Butte, and at Stage 3 Gunnison to Monach Mountain VIP Access to Team Presentation in Snowmass Meet Trek Factory Racing team members for Q&A, autographs, and photos; VIP Access to Stage 1 Trek Travel Hospitality Party in Aspen VIP Passes to the USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 3 Finish at Monarch Mountain NOT INCLUDED Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations Lodging before and after the trip Personal items purchased during the trip Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure. Gratuities for your Trek Travel Guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership. Industry standard is for each individual guest to tip the guide team 5-10% of the trip price. Page 10
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE WHAT S NEXT? If you are ready to book call at 866-464-8735 or fill out on our online booking form. If you already booked, there is a lot of great information below regarding getting ready for your trip and things like upgrade bikes, trip insurance and housekeeping items that you ll want to ensure are completed on time. THE ESSENTIAL LINKS UPGRADES Upgrade to the Trek Madone 6.5 road bike, electric assist bikes, and carbon wheels. TRIP INSURANCE Protecting your trip investment from unforeseen circumstances that might affect your trip. IN HOUSE TRAVEL AGENT Allow us to arrange your pre and post trip hotels, air travel, trains and other activities for a nominal fee. TRAINING Our partner, Vision Quest Training, offers custom training programs to prepare any rider for their trip. RIDER LEVEL We have trips for every type of rider. Find the best fit with our rider type explained section. TT CLUB Our TT Club rewards repeat guests with trip discounts, complimentary upgrades and more! CYCLING GEAR TO PACK Use this comprehensive packing list to make sure you bring just what you need for on and off the bike. OFF THE BIKE APPAREL With your bike fashion covered, here are suggestions for off the bike apparel for your trip. FAQS Read a lot of great information about your bike tour in our easy to navigate FAQ section. REFERRAL REWARDS Bring a friend on your Trek Travel cycling vacation and earn a $200 referral bonus each time! CANCELLATION POLICY Be informed rather than surprised. Trip cancellation policies differ so take a moment to look yours over. Cancellation Policy: If you must cancel your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, there is a cancellation fee of $100; between 61 90 days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 25% of the original trip price; between 31 60 days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 50% of the original trip price; there is no refund for cancelling a trip less than 30 days prior to departure. If you choose to change your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, you may do so with no fee. From 61 90 days, there will be a $1,000 administrative fee. If you choose to change your trip within 60 days of the original trip start, the cancellation policy outlined above will apply. Please be aware that it is only possible to move to another trip within one year of the original trip departure date. Page 11