Cycling Marathons in the US

Cycling Marathons in the US

Cycling marathons in the United States have grown in popularity. These events offer diverse experiences for riders of all skill levels. They vary in length, terrain, and location, providing impressive challenges and scenic routes. Here’s a closer look at some notable cycling marathons across the country.

RAGBRAI

RAGBRAI stands for the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa. It is one of the oldest and longest cycling events in the US. The ride spans seven days, covering approximately 468 miles. Participants ride through small towns, enjoying local hospitality and unique Midwestern culture. While not competitive, it attracts over 10,000 riders annually.

Tour de Tucson

The Tour de Tucson is an annual cycling event held in Tucson, Arizona. The course offers multiple distances ranging from 25 to 100 miles. This ride benefits local charities and provides stunning views of the Arizona landscape. The route includes desert scenes and mountain vistas, attracting cyclists from around the world.

California Coast Classic

This eight-day ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles covers over 525 miles. Participants raise funds for the Arthritis Foundation. Riders experience the beauty of the California coastline, passing through famous landmarks like Big Sur and Hearst Castle. This ride combines endurance with excellent views and a charitable cause.

Hotter’N Hell Hundred

Hotter’N Hell Hundred takes place in Wichita Falls, Texas. It is one of the largest single-day cycling events in the US. The event features a century ride (100 miles) in extreme heat, usually over 100°F. There are shorter routes available, but the century ride is the main draw. Riders test their limits while enjoying strong community support.

Gran Fondo New York

Gran Fondo New York is a global cycling event held annually in New York City. The 100-mile route starts in Manhattan and traverses the Hudson River Valley. Participants enjoy the challenge of steep climbs and competitive timing. The event attracts cyclists of all levels, including professionals and amateurs. It showcases the urban and natural beauty of New York.

Five Boro Bike Tour

The Five Boro Bike Tour is the largest charitable bike ride in the US. It takes place in New York City, covering all five boroughs. The 40-mile route is closed to traffic, providing a unique cycling experience. Participants ride through famous landmarks such as Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge. This event promotes health and fitness and raises funds for charity.

Seattle to Portland (STP)

The STP is a two-day, 200-mile ride starting in Seattle, Washington, and ending in Portland, Oregon. It attracts over 8,000 cyclists each year. Riders traverse diverse terrain, including urban areas, rural landscapes, and scenic river crossings. This event offers strong logistical support, making it accessible to a wide range of cyclists.

Ride the Rockies

Ride the Rockies is a seven-day tour through the Colorado Rockies. It covers between 400 and 500 miles with significant elevation gains. The ride visits small mountain towns and offers stunning alpine scenery. This event emphasizes endurance and attracts cyclists looking for a challenging and scenic ride.

Iron Horse Bicycle Classic

Based in Durango, Colorado, this event spans three days. The main race features a 50-mile route that mimics the race between a bicycle and a train. Riders climb over 6,700 feet, providing a formidable challenge. The event also includes other races and activities, making it a festival of cycling.

Tour of California

Modeled after European multi-day races, the Tour of California is a professional cycling event. It covers about 700-800 miles over eight days. The race travels through iconic locations like Lake Tahoe and Yosemite. While primarily a professional event, it inspires many amateur cyclists to explore similar routes.

Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb

This demanding event takes place in New Hampshire. Cyclists race up Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. The 7.6-mile route has an average gradient of 12% and sections exceeding 22%. This hillclimb is one of the toughest in the world, drawing participants looking for an extreme challenge.

Levi’s Gran Fondo

Held in Santa Rosa, California, Levi’s Gran Fondo combines charity with challenge. It offers multiple routes, the longest being over 100 miles with significant climbing. Named after professional cyclist Levi Leipheimer, the event supports various local charities. Riders enjoy scenic wine country and challenging ascents.

Cape Cod Getaway

This two-day, 150-mile ride supports the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. It starts in Quincy, Massachusetts, and ends in Provincetown on Cape Cod. The route features rolling hills and picturesque New England scenery. This event combines a scenic ride with fundraising for a meaningful cause.

MS Bike: City to Shore Ride

This ride begins in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and ends in Ocean City, New Jersey. It spans two days and covers up to 175 miles. Participants raise funds for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The event is known for strong community support and scenic coastal views.

AIDS/Lifecycle

AIDS/Lifecycle is a seven-day, 545-mile ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Participants raise funds for HIV/AIDS services. The route offers gorgeous coastal views and supportive pit stops. This ride combines physical challenge with a strong community spirit and a vital cause.

El Tour de Mesa

El Tour de Mesa takes place in Mesa, Arizona. The event features a 100-mile century ride and shorter distance options. Riders enjoy the scenic Sonoran Desert and views of the Superstition Mountains. Proceeds benefit local non-profits, making it a community-focused event.

Triple Bypass

Based in Colorado, the Triple Bypass is a one-day ride covering 120 miles. Cyclists climb over three major mountain passes, with a total elevation gain of 10,000 feet. Participants experience stunning alpine scenery and challenging climbs, making it a favorite among endurance cyclists.

The Death Ride

Officially known as the Tour of the California Alps, the Death Ride covers 129 miles. It includes 15,000 feet of climbing over five mountain passes in the Sierra Nevada. This ride is one of the most grueling in the US, attracting dedicated cyclists seeking a formidable challenge. The event provides excellent logistical support and scenic views.

Boulder Ironman 70.3

The Boulder Ironman 70.3 includes a cycling segment of 56 miles. It takes place in Boulder, Colorado, and is part of a triathlon format. The route is known for its rolling hills and beautiful mountain scenery. This event attracts both serious triathletes and dedicated cyclists.

Crushar in the Tushar

Based in Beaver, Utah, this race covers 70 miles with 10,000 feet of climbing. It combines paved roads and dirt tracks, providing diverse terrain challenges. The event draws cyclists who enjoy both road and off-road adventures.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Tour

This tour spans eight days, covering about 350 miles. Riders explore the scenic Upper Peninsula, including state parks and shoreline. The event emphasizes scenic beauty and relaxed pacing.

Empire State Ride

This seven-day ride covers 540 miles from New York City to Niagara Falls. Participants raise funds for cancer research. The route offers diverse scenery, including urban areas, countryside, and historic landmarks.

Cycling marathons in the US do more than test physical limits. They build communities, raise funds for charities, and showcase diverse landscapes. Each event offers a unique experience, catering to different levels of cyclists. Whether seeking a challenge or a scenic tour, there’s a ride for every cyclist.

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