Ride for the Pass coming up soon

Time is growing short to register for this year’s Ride for the Pass, the Independence Pass Foundation’s annual fundraiser, taking place May 18. After two years of weather-related cancellations, organizers are cautiously optimistic that this year’s event will be precipitation-free.

The 10-mile ride from the winter gate southeast of Aspen on Highway 82 to the Independence ghost town near the summit is a traditional kickoff to the spring biking season. The event features competitive and recreational divisions. Families, youths and unicyclists are encouraged to participate, enjoy the scenery and attend the after-party (featuring dozens of door prizes, including two new town bikes).

This year, the ride will start at 10 a.m., an hour later than in previous years, but riders should get to the start line early to avoid the last-minute crush. The after-party at the Sky Hotel will start at 1 p.m. and include a free beer or soft-drink ticket for every participant. Ride registration is $40 for individuals and $70 for families for online registration (go to www.independencepass.org for a link to the registration site). That cost will go up $10 for in-person registration at the Limelight Hotel on May 16 and 17 or at the start line on ride day.

The ride is part of the Aspen Cycling Festival, which includes a criterium race May 19 through Aspen. Visit www.aspencyclingfestival.com for more information.