56th Annual Bob Cook Memorial Blue Sky Hill Climb

July 20, 2024

The Blue Sky Hill Climb is an iconic bicycle race that takes place on the highest paved road in North America, at 14,264 above sea level. Challenge yourself to this epic event with breathtaking views (and elevation) for a cycling experience you will never forget. Both a race and a ride, the Hill Climb is offered as a USA Cycling race or Gran Fondo.

Full event details can be found on the race flyer: Bob Book USAC Permit Flyer V5 2024.

This event serves as the 2024 Colorado state championship hill climb for senior and master categories.

This event is part of the 2024 Rocky Mountain Road Cup season-long points competition.

Learn more and register!

Route details

The starting point in Idaho Springs is about 45 minutes east of Summit County, and if you fancy yourself a climber, this is one of the “Big Kahunas” of hill climbs. It’s a 6,630 ft climb from an elevation of 7,500 ft all the way up to 14,130 ft. Climbing between 12,000 and 14,000 ft is dramatically different than climbing from 10,000 to 12,000 ft!

Support – There’s mechanical support at the Start and on the Summit, neutral support on the route, and a feed zone with people handing you hydration and nutrition. Your clothing bag is even brought to the Summit for you. Complete with a party at the bottom to celebrate!

Race with Professional Bicyclists – The Blue Sky Hill Climb has professional bicyclists that race in the Tour de France and the USA Pro Cycling Challenge.  Participants race on the same course as those that have made it to the highest level of cycling—where Colorado USAC licensed bicyclists compete for the Colorado State Hill Climb Championships for Masters and Seniors, Men and Women!

Partners and Supporters

Team Evergreen Cycling is the oldest and largest cycling club in Colorado.  Their mission is to build the cycling community by expanding rider experiences, hosting compelling events, and channeling thoughtful philanthropic impact.  As a non-profit, they have donated nearly $3.5M to local charitable and advocacy organizations. Anyone can become a member and enjoy the benefits that this club has to offer. But you aren’t just joining a club, you are joining a group of folks that care about and contribute to the community through the love of riding a bike.

Climb for a cause. All proceeds of the Blue Sky Hill Climb are given back to local and national non-profits. We have given over $3M to groups from the High School Cycling League to Bicycle Colorado. Summiting Blue Sky makes a difference.