Vail Valley beckons cyclists to come riding

The Vail Valley is working to build itself into a cycling destination as well as a skiing destination and this month's Gran Fondo may help.

The Gran Fondo, or "big ride," is Aug. 19, on the eve of the start of this year's USA Pro Cycling Challenge, the seven-day stage race across Colorado that features some of international cycling's top riders.

Vail resident Steve Virostek told the Vail Daily that cycling events are a way for everyday riders to “legitimize” their own passion for the sport.

And televised events like the USA Pro Challenge are a good way to show off the valley to people who might not have thought about riding in the area.

“You'll watch the Tour de France and say ‘I want to go there,'” Colorado Bike Service owner Jeff Mohrman said.

Glenwood Springs-based Colorado Adventure Center is offering a tour down the Vail Pass bike path - with time for riding around Vail afterward.