33.9
PDI
21.4 mi
DISTANCE
5,779 ft
GAINED
5.1 %
AVG. GRADE
FULL CLIMB STATS
INTRO
"The north side of Grand Mesa in the western part of the state is a long and scenic ascent and is one of the most difficult in Colorado. It also carries the 3rd greatest elevation gain in the state. It is close to Interstate 70 so pretty convenient and worth a visit if you are in the area. Typically there is little traffic on this hill and you can enjoy the ride and scenery. There is a bit of steeper climbing at the beginning of the ascent and that ends quickly as you head through the small town of Mesa along Route 65 on a straight stretch of road. The grade eases somewhat after leaving town and the mesa looms in front of you..." (This quote is presented with the approval of John Summerson, from his book, The Complete Guide to Climbing (by Bike) in Colorado, pg. 124.)
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
We've partnered with Sherpa-Map.com to bring you the best route planning tool. With a PRO Membership you can use this climb as a reference when creating your route. This climb is divided in two for gradient sake - the first 13.6 miles average 6.2%, while the final 7.8 average 3.1%. Average grade is 5.1% (5.6% with descent removed). 40% of the climb is at 0-5% grade and 45% is at 5-10%. The steepest quarter-mile is 10.1% and steepest mile 8%.
See more details and tools regarding this climb's grade via the “Profile Tool” button.
Roadway: Excellent.
Traffic: Mild. We are on Highway 65 the entire route and traffic can pass by in the 50 mph range, but there is a shoulder for the cyclist, and the climb felt safe the three times we have done it.
Parking: We always park at the start of the climb at the intersection of Highway 65 and 45 1/2 Road (true name) - Map; Street View.
Gear and Weather: We climb to nearly 11,000' on this climb so the weather at the top may be quite different than at the start. Consult the PJAMM "Full Forecast" feature for the time you expect to arrive at the finish to assess what clothing to bring on your ride.
Provisions: Other than in Mesa at mile 1.8 there are no places along this climb to get food or water.
Before heading out on any cycling adventure check out our Things to Bring on a Cycling Trip and use our interactive check list to ensure you don't forget anything.
You may also consider doing both Grand Mesa North and Grand Mesa South as an out-and-back (81 miles, 10,450'; Map). You are also within easy driving distance to Colorado National Monument (40 miles) and East Portal (roughly 90 miles).
Cedaredge is a good choice to stay (vacation rentals) if you are riding Grand Mesa North and/or South.
ROUTE MAP
MEMBER RATING
CURRENT WEATHER
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Skotscott
August 17, 2023
I parked at the community center in Mesa, across from the wagon wheel restaurant. Didn't like the high-speed traffic with no shoulder up to the town of Mesa. Lighter traffic from mesa up to the summit. This is a long climb but not a steep climb. Typically hot/warm at the start then much cooler at the summit 10,839ft so best to bring wind/rain jacket and gloves for the decent. Restrooms at the summit parking area but no water. The first ½ of the climb from Mesa up to about the ski area is on a very good road. The road from the ski area to the summit has separation cracks, bad repairs, sunken pavement. Not an issue when climbing, but take care on the decent. Once past the ski area, you can go enjoy a full speed decent back to Mesa.
