What is the distance to the summit of Coal Bank?

Concerns About Mileage Sign at Cole Bank Pass

Dear Action Line,

Our cyclists face tough climbs to Cole Bank Pass and have come across a sign that reads, “Cole Bank Pass Summit 4 Miles.” However, I’ve noticed it’s actually just 3.71 miles to the summit. Now, for drivers, that little difference might not matter, but on a bike? That’s a whole different story. Is it intentional? I wonder if cyclists coming for the Iron Horse Bike Classic next week could have a more comfortable ride. – Curious Cyclist

Dear Curious Cyclist,

Thanks for the chance to talk about the Iron Horse Bike Classic. Soon, thousands of us, myself included, will be tackling that climb at Cole Bank Pass.

The “4 Mile” sign can be either reassuring or daunting. I mean, it’s only four miles—right? But, honestly, at 10,000 feet above sea level, it can feel like forever.

It’s interesting you mention this; there’s really no grand mystery surrounding those road signs. Most signs, including mile markers and stop signs, must be exactly placed, while others, well, they’re less strict about accuracy. As Lisa Schwantz from the Colorado Department of Transport pointed out, some signs, like those with moose images, are positioned based on available road shoulders and work zones, not just precise distances.

The Colorado Department of Transport clarified that the sign is meant to give a general idea. They’ve shared images of a spot near the actual four-mile point, but, you see, there’s limited shoulder space, and a curve sign is there, too. So, they opted to place the distance sign further up the highway.

When you spot that sign, it’s an indicator that you’re getting close, even if it suggests there’s more distance to cover.

For the Iron Horse riders, there’s some good news. CDOT has been diligently working on Highway 550 in recent weeks and will continue to do so before the race.

However, cyclists will run into roadwork just north of the Cole Bank Pass Summit. This week, CDOT kicked off two projects between Mile Points 56 and 60, focusing on replacing walls near the summit and stabilizing a rocky hillside near Deer Creek.

Work will pause during the race, but expect the road to be down to one lane in certain spots.

Also, be aware of alternating traffic lights that might affect drivers heading towards Silverton on race morning. The Iron Horse Bike Classic recommends that friends and families of racers should plan for an extra 30 to 45 minutes of travel time after they pass through Purgatory. And if you’re in Durango, leaving by 6:30 am is crucial since the expressway will close in Purgatory by 7:30 am on Saturday.