Originally Posted by
cyccommute
Here's a
map
If you need to shorten the route, you might consider markf's suggestion of a shuttle to Summit County but that will only take off 70 miles or so. You could also consider going from Denver to Glenwood Springs by Amtrak and then through Aspen (I can help with the route). That would cut off about 200 miles.
A van shuttle to Frisco would knock off 90+ miles and 6000+ feet of climbing, plus eliminate the need to ride over Loveland Pass with all the haz-mat trucks and oversize loads as well as the ride through Denver and the short stretch where you still have to ride on I-70. It would also put the OP in walking distance of at least 2 USFS campgrounds, a bunch of cheap hotels, a good bike shop and and a good supermarket, as well as a few wild camping options. It would also put the OP in cycling (or transit bus with bike rack) distance of 2 hostels and a couple more campgrounds. On the other hand, it would cost about $120 per person with the bikes. Not bad for the first night of the tour, IMHO.