While this is a backcountry race, there are several points along the beginning of the course that offer spectators an opportunity to view the racers and cheer them on!
The race start line is at the base of the Crested Butte Mountain Resort. KBUT the local PBS station will be having their annual Soul Train night at Butte 66. Come cheer on racers at the start and attend the party. The Mountain Express Town Shuttle will run late on Friday, March 29 for KBUT’s Soul Train event and the Grand Traverse. From Mountaineer Square in Mt. Crested Butte to Crested Butte, the Town Shuttle will run every 15 minutes with its last run from Mountaineer Square to Crested Butte at 2:00 a.m. If you miss the last buses, the Late Night Taxi will be running its regular late-night service and can be reached at (970) 209-0509.
The racers will begin the climb up Crested Butte Mountain, going to the left of the Red Lady lift.
Racers can be seen one last time before they go into the back country as they travel along Brush Creek Road. Please respect the private land surrounding this area.
Spectators can then drive over to Aspen to watch their favorite teams finish! There will be music and beverages at the base of the gondola area. Please note, this drive can take 4.5 hours in good weather. The first finishers are expected around 7:00 AM depending on the weather, course conditions, and racer’s speeds.
The Aspen Gondola is open for up-riding and spectators can purchase a ticket to ride to the sundeck where finishers can be seen as they begin the last downhill portion.
