It rained all night, with temps in the 40's, so I feel somewhat justified in taking a room in town. 

I have long wanted to take the dirt road between Paonia and Crested Butte which goes up over Kebler Pass and planned to do so today, however at breakfast I learned that the Pro Challenge bike race will also go over the pass (on dirt?) so the road is closed for the day. My friendly innkeeper, Rosemary provided three alternates all of which I will try: Gothic, Brush Creek and Slate Creek dirt roads, up into the mountain canyons. 

All were beautiful, but Gothic was the most scenic: high peaks and a abandoned mining town (Gothic), now used as a biological research station, studying bees, marmots and ecology.  They even have a registered cricket team in town....

Brush Creek Rd had more of a high-mountain ranch country feel....

Back in town at 2pm (pouring rain) before they close the roads for the bike race, I changed clothes, grabbed my raingear and headed into town to watch the race. 

Then, the sun came out. Dinner at Teocalli Tamale, a locals favorite. The owner and staff were super nice, and the food was sooooo good, and for a reasonable price!