Leadville: Denise Edwards, Paul Frederickson, Pam Elvy, Rod Hutton, Marc Elvy, Wanda Ross, Kurt McMillen, Marty Herbert
In early August, 16 Cyclemasters drove to Summit County, Colo., an area noted for many bicycle paths. Each morning during the week, we bicycled 20 to 30 miles at elevations of 8,500 feet and higher in scenic Frisco, Dillon, Keystone, Breckenridge, and Copper Mountain and also in Leadville, on the highest paved bicycle trail in the U.S. at 10,606 feet elevation.
Gold was discovered in this area in 1859, leading to the first mining camp and town in Breckinridge, which became the country seat in 1862. The Colorado Silver Rush began in 1865. By the early 1990s, the county saw a boom in mining, particularly for gold, silver, lead, and zinc. As mining declined, the country diversified into ranching, logging, and tourism. By the 1960s, Breckinridge and Frisco became popular ski destinations. Today it is a thriving area known for its mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, and vibrant towns.
After bicycling, we stopped for lunch at local eateries. In the afternoons, we enjoyed free time, then our very social group enjoyed snacks and drinks, playing games, or going to the Colorado Symphony. Many thanks to Dotti McKee for suggesting this trip and to Rod Hutton for planning and leading rides with help from Dotti, Denise Edwards, Paul Frederickson, and Joanie Broder.