South Shale 50

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De Beque, CO, US

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Route Overview

Notbikeable

damn fine routes

46 mi.

3,297 ft.

Otherworldly landscapes on the western slope.

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Route Details

The South Shale 50 is an adventure loop traversing through desert dry wash and canyon ridgeline in the rugged, backcountry of Colorado’s Western Slope. The landscape is dominated by arid mesas, buttes, and plateaus, rising above canyons carved over millions of years by tributaries of the Colorado River. It is a geologically unique area- with its wealth of sedimentary formations and plant and animal life bearing more in common with Utah and Arizona than with the rest of Colorado.

Though the ride isn’t particularly difficult, it is a long day on @photo[sandy, dirt roads](10725474). The beginning 15 miles or so aren’t especially exciting but stick it out, baby! Good things come to those who wait. Read more about it @ [www.notbikeable.com](http://www.notbikeable.com)

# Important Reminders

If you are looking to camp, There are abundant options once you reach the BLM land west of the @poi[High Lonesome Ranch](21202966). Keep in mind that this area is home to fragile and unique geological formations as well as endangered plant and wildlife.

South Shale 50

Route Overview

Route Details

Other routes by Notbikeable

South Mesa Loop

Phantom Canyon loop

Gold Camp Rd. - Old Stage Rd.

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