Ride the Cog

Ride the Cog – Hayden, Colorado, United States

• Date: August 29, 2026
• Location: Hayden, Colorado
• Distances: 43 miles, 31 miles, 27 miles
• Event Type: Gravel Ride

The Ride the Cog offers a memorable gravel ride in Colorado, rooted in the quiet landscapes of Routt County. The event takes its name from the Hayden Cog road, a formidable climb of nearly three miles at an eleven percent grade. But beyond this central challenge, the ride is a celebration of the area's sprawling network of rural roads, showcasing the panoramic views and agricultural heritage of the Yampa Valley. It follows routes first traced by bicycle in the early 1900s, connecting riders to a quiet, enduring local history.

Three distinct routes provide options for a wide range of riders. The longest is the 43-mile “Combined Ride,” which links together the other two loops. The 31-mile “Gravel Grinder” follows a historic path, while the 27-mile “Mud Route” offers its own character and views. Each course is designed to highlight the beauty of the backroads around Hayden, offering a rewarding experience for any level of cyclist. This gravel ride in Colorado is designed to be inclusive, and e-bikes are welcome on all routes.

The day begins at Wild Goose Coffee, where participants gather before the 9:00 AM rollout. This provides a moment for the community to connect over coffee and breakfast before heading out onto the gravel. The start itself is located at the Historic Hayden Granary, a fitting nod to the region's past. All routes begin together, fostering a sense of shared purpose as the day of riding gets underway. The atmosphere is one of relaxed participation rather than intense competition.

After a day spent on the quiet, rural roads, the ride concludes at the Hayden Taphouse. Here, the experience continues with food and live music, allowing riders to share stories from the road. The finish line is more than just an end point; it’s a community gathering that supports a local non-profit, West Routt Forward. This organization is dedicated to realizing the future vision for Hayden, focusing on trail connectivity and increasing access to outdoor recreation for all residents.

This event is more than just a challenge; it’s an invitation to explore the West Routt County landscape. Participants can expect views of Elkhead Reservoir and Bears Ears Mountain, set against a backdrop of rolling agricultural land. The routes offer a genuine taste of a classic gravel ride in Colorado. For complete details and registration, please refer to the official event website. The ride operates on a unique model, with entry being free in exchange for a donation of nonperishable food items.