bikepacking

RJ Ripper - From Kathmandu to mountain bike Global Podium

RJ Ripper - From Kathmandu to mountain bike Global Podium

Bikes are a part of growing up for many kids around the globe. For Rajesh (RJ) Magar, growing up on a bike in Kathmandu, Nepal brought him onto the world cup podium four times by the time he was 21.

RJ keeps it fun. Get out there! Be safe. Be kind. Have fun.

Video: Joey Schusler

Adventure Origins Overnighter

Epic route / Bikepack

97 miles

Bike

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This route runs the gamut from silky smooth gravel roads to rough and tumble historic trails (technically former roads!) through the FIRST established recreation area in the US Forest Service: Squirrel Creek canyon. The second day kicks off with a legendary descent of Twelve Mile Highway (CO 78), which is Colorado's last remaining unpaved state highway.

Make sure to give yourself time for some coffee stops and a few photos!

NOTE: It’s easier to ride the Beulah loop of this trip clockwise (up CO-78 and down Squirrel Creek. The reverse is a fun challenge for the adventurous/masochistic). The climb up CO-78 is still a bear.

Getting there: We like to start in town and hit up Solar Roast Coffee on the way out. It’s nice to get fueled up before the journey.

Adventure Origins Beulah Loop

Epic route / Bikepack

25 miles

Bike

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This short, adventurous overnight starts in the wonderful hamlet of Beulah, Colorado and makes its way out the last unpaved “highway” in Colorado (it’s quite low traffic) with big views, deep history, and steep climbing. Day one is the bulk of the route's challenge, climbing CO-78/Twelve Mile highway from Beulah to CO-165. It’s possible to take a paved detour after the big climb to site by Lake San Isabel and grab food and drink at the Lodge. The first night is at historic Davenport Campground, the gateway to Squirrel Creek Canyon. Davenport still hosts structures built just after the turn of the century, and offers a spot to filter water. Squirrel Creek is the first USFS recreation area in the country, designed before most any campground you’ve ever been to. Day two sends you down the technical Squirrel Creek trail and through the Pueblo Mountain park's Carhart trail. Carhart trail is mostly moderate terrain, though exposed in spots. Expect very challenging, chunky terrain in many spots along Squirrel Creek. Finish the day in Beulah. It’s a small town that’s easy to fall in love with.

 Make sure to give yourself time for some coffee stops and a few photos!

Getting there: Park in Beulah. Grab some coffee at Stompin’ Grounds. get after it.