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Guided Singletrack Rides with Absolute Bikes!

We are psyched to once again offer guided rides on the Monarch Crest, Cottonwood trail, and many other alpine and subalpine singletrack trails in our area! Josh Tostado, an extremely accomplished endurance mountain bike pro, cycling coach, and lover of all things mountain bike is our new lead guide. He brings decades of experience, knowledge, and stoke to the team. Tick off your bucket list singletrack rides with Josh and Absolute Bikes this summer and fall season, and we'll make sure you and your group are memorably guided on some of the best trails Colorado has to offer!

The 2025 shuttle season has come to an end! Thank you for a great summer of alpine riding — check back in the spring for updated information on 2026 opening dates.


Alpine singletrack riding at its finest on the Monarch Crest! Photo: Marcel Slootheer

Guided Ride Details:

  • The cost for a Monarch Crest guided ride for up to four people is $550 (total, not per person), and includes a provided lunch. Please reach out for information on the numerous route options, prices, etc. that are available with our permitting. 

  • We are happy to offer demo bikes for use at $150 per bike/day. We offer demo bikes from Pivot, Yeti, and Ibis, and we will make sure your bike is dialed before departure with included accessories like water bottle cage, repair kit, etc. Demo bikes are subject to availability. E-bikes are not available to demo at this time.

  • Josh Tostado offers custom video/content creation if you're looking to have your guided ride professionally documented - please reach out for details.

Josh Tostado in his element..


FAQs:

  • Q: What is the elevation of the Monarch Crest, and what can I expect weather wise? 

  • A: The elevation at Monarch Pass where the Monarch Crest trail begins is at 11,312 ft elevation, and the high point of the ride is just under 12,000 ft elevation. You can view the IMBA Epic 'Crest Classic' route profile and stats here. You can expect afternoon thunderstorms to roll through in the Colorado high-country during monsoon season from mid June through the end of August, so be sure to bring a rain shell and an extra layer or two! Temps on the Crest typically range from 50-75° F. 

  • Q: How long will the Monarch Crest ride take me?

  • A: We get asked this question a lot, and the answer largely depends on acclimation to altitude and fitness level. If you're a flat-lander with modest fitness then you should anticipate a 6-8 hour day riding at a casual pace with ample opportunities for snack/water breaks and photos. If you're reasonably well acclimated and fit then you should anticipate a 4-6 hour day.

  • Q: What should I bring with me?

  • A: Riding in the Colorado high-country necessitates being prepared for any and all weather conditions! Full sun, wind, rain, hail, sleet are all possible so bring enough layers for  sun/wind/rain protection to stay comfortable. Bring enough snacks/water to stay energized and hydrated, and a basic repair kit (multi-tool, tubeless plug kit, tire lever, hand pump or C02, spare tube, chain lube) to keep the bike rolling smooth should a mechanical issue result. 

  • Q: I am new to mountain biking, can I do this ride?

  • A:  The Monarch Crest is a backcountry epic that involves high altitudes, over 2,000ft of elevation gain, and rough descents. If you are unsure if you can complete this ride, give us a call to discuss your fitness and skillset.

  • Q: Can I ride an E-Bike on the Monarch Crest guided trips?

  • A: Due to Insurance and liability, E-bikes are not permitted on guided trips.


Please give us a call or email us for any additional information:  719.539.9295 - info@absolutebikes.com