Make It a Weekend
Some bike rides are just bike rides. And then there’s Tour of the Moon. The ride was proudly recognized among the nation’s best, earning a number 7 ranking in USA Today’s 10Best Road Cycling Events.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Colorado National Monument with its towering monoliths, sheer-walled red rock canyons, and sweeping panoramic views, this is the kind of ride that stays with you. On Saturday, September 12, 2026, one of the premier road cycling events in the western United States returns to Grand Junction, and it’s well worth making a full family weekend of it.
A Ride Steeped in Legend
Tour of the Moon earned its place in cycling history during the 1980s Coors Classic, one of the most celebrated stage races in American cycling. Fans of the sport may also recognize the route from the film American Flyers, where the Monument’s otherworldly landscape became the backdrop for an iconic finish. In 2025, we celebrated the 40th anniversary of American Flyers.
Riders can choose between a 41-mile and a 64-mile route, both offering a genuine and memorable challenge through some of Colorado’s most striking terrain. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or soaking in every view, Tour of the Moon delivers.
After the Ride, the Party Begins
One of the best parts of the Tour of the Moon is that the celebration is designed for everyone. Following the ride, stick around for the post-ride festival featuring lunch, a beer garden, an expo, and live entertainment. It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to gather, cheer on riders coming across the finish, and enjoy a well-earned afternoon together. Extra tickets to the post-ride meal for friends and family are available for purchase at the event or when you register online.
Explore Colorado National Monument
If the ride gives you a taste of the Monument, make time to experience it up close. Colorado National Monument is a true gem of the Western Slope, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and viewpoints that are accessible for all ages and abilities. Rim Rock Drive alone is a stunning 23-mile route with pullouts overlooking the canyon floor. For families with kids, the Monument offers Junior Ranger programs, and many of the shorter trails are manageable for younger hikers.
More to Do in the Grand Junction Area
Grand Junction is a welcoming basecamp with plenty to offer beyond the Monument.
Riverbend Park and the Colorado River. Grand Junction sits at the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison rivers, and Riverbend Park offers easy riverside trails and open space that’s perfect for a mellow family walk after a big day of riding.
Downtown Grand Junction. Main Street is lined with local restaurants, galleries, and shops. The downtown art scene is lively and approachable, with outdoor murals and sculptures that make for a fun self-guided walk with kids.
Palisade wine country. Just a short drive east, the town of Palisade is Colorado’s wine country. September is harvest season, making it a particularly special time to visit local wineries and farm stands. Many offer family-friendly tastings and gorgeous orchard scenery. If this piques your interest, don’t miss the Tour de Vineyards ride on September 19, 2026.
Check out more fun activities in Grand Junction.
Plan Your Trip
Grand Junction is approximately four hours from Denver and the Front Range, making it a natural stopping point for a longer Western Slope adventure. Hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds fill up during the event, so book accommodations early.
Tour of the Moon is more than a bike ride. It’s a chance to experience one of Colorado’s most spectacular landscapes, share the experience with your family, and connect with a community of people who love bikes and the places bikes take us.
