From Clear Creek Reservoir to Cottonwood Pass bikepackers must bypass around the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. This bypass route utilizes a combination of paved highway and gravel backroads. River Road leading into Buena Vista is a very scenic and enjoyable pedal.

While rerouting around Wilderness instead of riding singletrack is a bummer, dropping into Buena Vista provides a great opportunity to resupply. The upcoming section of the route is remote and arduous, so restocking on food and any other necessary supplies is mandatory. Boneshaker Cycles in downtown Buena Vista is a full-service bike shop. The Trailhead offers other useful outdoor supplies. And of course, Buena Vista offers other standard amenities like a grocery store, liquor stores, and restaurants.