The race began with a short prologue time trial in Colorado Springs, wound its way through the Rocky Mountains at heights of up to 12,000 feet (3,700 m), and finished in the streets of downtown Denver.

August 27, 2011 — Steamboat Springs to Breckenridge, 105.2 miles (169.3 km) Immediately after leaving Steamboat Springs, the riders ascended Rabbit Ears Pass, a steep pass with about 15 miles (24 km) of climbing and a false summit.

After the descent, it's a long slow climb through some of Colorado's most popular ski resorts that culminated in a downhill finish into Breckenridge.

August 28, 2011 — Golden to Denver, 73.79 miles (118.75 km) The final stage of the race began under the "Howdy Folks!"

Once in the city, they completed six laps through downtown Denver, finishing on Broadway in front of the state capital building.