Cyclists mark your calenders for an epic local event.

On Oct. 11 a Gran Fondo Citizens Ride will take place encompassing Canyons of the Ancients National Monument.

Ride of the Ancients is a century group cycling event organized by Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance in partnership with the Southwest Memorial Hospital Foundation.

The 100-mile ride will start at Parque de Vida in Cortez, head down McElmo Canyon, enter Utah on the Navajo Reservation, circle around Hovenweep National Monument, continue on Montezuma County Road 10 to Road BB, and back to Parque de Vida for a post-ride party.

The community ride is in the tradition of the Gran Fondo Citizen Ride, wildly popular in Europe and the U.S. Any individual (including the "weekend warrior") has the opportunity to ride for a cause. Organizers anticipate a spectacular ride through gold cottonwoods in beautiful fall conditions.

Participants can look forward to pre- and post-ride festivities with local food and fun for the whole family. Not ready for the century ride? Stay tuned for information on the shorter route, which is impressive in its own right.

To get involved in volunteering for the race, send an email to info@swcocanyons.org or call (970) 882-5628.