RMCC Guanella Loveland St. Mary's Challenge
Epic Denver-area road ride linking Guanella Pass, Loveland Pass, and St. Mary's Glacier — part of RMCC's 2026 Challenge Series for the front range's most committed climbers.
The vibe
Three passes, zero mercy
Three passes in a single day — that’s the premise of this RMCC Challenge Series entry. Guanella Pass, Loveland Pass, and the climb to St. Mary’s Glacier chained together into one August sufferfest. Each climb is significant on its own; stringing them together is a statement ride reserved for people who’ve spent the summer building serious mountain legs.
Guanella tops out at 11,669 feet. Loveland Pass hits 11,990. The St. Mary’s section adds one more lung-searing finish to a day that’s already earned its difficulty. The Challenge Series label isn’t given lightly — RMCC selects these rides as the best the front range offers for distances under 100 miles, which means the route quality matches the suffering.
RMCC membership required. Detailed route information is available through the club’s ride schedule at rockymountaincyclingclub.com. Plan your nutrition and hydration carefully — altitude suppresses appetite but the caloric demands are real. Bring layers for the pass summits regardless of the valley forecast.