Day 27: Castle Rock, CO to Salida, CO

145.62 Miles | 2:59 Riding Time

Today is Tuesday, May 7, 2024, and it’s Day 27 of my cross country motorcycle trip.

I’m heading down toward southern Colorado to Pagosa Springs and Durango. I’ve wanted to ride the Million Dollar Highway on this trip. Technically, the Million Dollar Highway is the section of RT 550 between Ouray and Silverton, but the entire RT 550 is supposed to be beautiful. Unfortunately, the forecast for Silverton, CO shows 1-3 inches of snow tomorrow and rain every day until next Thursday.

The wind was strong today—still a “red flag” warning, but not as strong as yesterday. I got lots of recommendations that Salida (with a long i) was a great town, and the ride along the Arkansas river to get there was not to be missed. So, that seems like a good place to go. It was only a short stint on the highway then local routes. It would take me back down through Cañon City and Royal Gorge, and west toward Gunnison.

The winds would pick up in the afternoon, so I got an early start.

Salida is a “delightful” city. I got some tacos at El Rey Taco Shop, and walked—taking what turned out to be the least efficient route—downtown. There is a vibrant downtown, art and shopping district that sits right along the river. I got a coffee at Coffee by Topo, sat by the river, and watched kayakers practicing in some small rapids. There’s also a public surf wave where a handful of surfers were doing their thing.

Had an early dinner at the Boathouse, and had a nice walk back to my hotel—got 10,286 steps in today. I enjoyed my time in Salida, and would definitely go back sometime.

The Route

Elevation Profile

Check out this ride on Rever.