While there are numerous reasons to visit Castle Rock Colorado, there is one particular annual event held in the city that’s worth planning a vacation around. Named after a natural rock formation that resembles a towering elephant‚ the Elephant Rock Cycling Festival draws thousands of participants from all over. After lunch, we head out and follow the foothills north. A very difficult 2 hours 9/10 with many steep climbs and fast efforts as we chase wheels and close gaps. A gorgeous stage as we head west, watching the mountains get closer, battling winds. A storm’s a brewin’!