9 Challenging Rides for Advanced Climbers

Written by
Marc Lindsay
Think you've been challenged on the bike? Think again. Here are eight cycling events across the United States that offer extreme elevation gains—-the perfect chance to see just what you're made of. Looking for something else? Search for more cycling events.
Mammoth High Sierra Fall Century and Gran Fondo
Mammoth Lakes, California - September 7, 2013
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Choose from distances of 30, 45, 60, or 100 miles, this bucket list race features jaw dropping views of the Sierra Nevada Range, Mono Lake and the White Mountains. Do bring your climbing bike, as the course starts at a cool 8,000 feet of elevation and has well over 6,000 miles of climbing sprinkled throughout the century and Gran Fondo courses. But what fun would spectacular views be if you didn't have to work to get there?
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14th Annual Highlander Cycle Tour
Canandaigua, New York - September 6, 2013
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Seven events are offered as part of the Tour, but one stands out. The Quads Hills Century is a 100-mile ride with 10,000 feet of climbing, with grades approaching 23 percent on some ascents. You'll be rewarded with some of the most amazing scenery in upstate New York.
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Palomar Mountain Challenge
Lake Henshaw, California - June 22, 2013
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One of the highest paved roads in San Diego County, this has quickly turned into a classic climb in the Tour of California route. At 12 miles and just over 6,000 feet of climbing, you'll be hard pressed to make it look as easy as the pro's do. The race features individual starts in a race against the clock with different distance options depending whether or not you like to race down hill too.
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Ride Westcliffe
Westcliffe, Colorado - September 14, 2013
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Though the race starts 7,900 feet above sea level, there's still plenty of climbing to do. All three of the routes will test just how well you've prepared your climbing legs, including the 100-mile Century with 10,000 feet of elevation gain, dubbed the "toughest century in Colorado." And that's saying something.
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Tahoe Sierra Century
Olympic Valley, California
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This community fundraiser is no walk in the park. The century ride covers 6,800 feet in elevation gain, though it's not all hard work—13 of the 100 miles are along the beautiful shores of Lake Tahoe. Lunch is provided during the ride and as well as a dinner party afterwards, which are included in entry fees to refuel your energy stores after a long day of climbing.
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Black Bear Century
Minisink HIlls, Pennsylvania - October 12, 2013
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Seven different distances are offered, ranging from 32 to 107 miles. The long one, though, is where your climbing is put to the test. More than 9.700 feet of elevation gain will take you to the highest point in New Jersey with 100-mile-plus views in all directions—all with fall foliage creating stunning backdrops of color in every direction.
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Mt. Nebo Century
Springville, Utah - August 3, 2013
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When race directors dubbed this race a challenge, they weren't kidding. This race is not for the faint of heart, and a Sunday stroll it is not. Climb Nebo pass through the Uinta National Forest to a staggering height of over 9,300 feet, the tallest mountain in the Wasatach range. This ride is fully supported and one of Utah's true hidden gems.
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Wright Stuff Challenge and Oak Hill Climb
Norwood, Colorado
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Although the event offers fun for the whole family, including running and walking events, you might want to leave the kids out of the Oak Hill Bike Climb. It's a neutral start and only eight miles to the finish-but no one said it's going to be easy.
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Endue Classic 7,000 Vertical Feet Challenge
San Mateo, California - June 22, 2013
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The 100-mile option has over 7,000 feet of climbing as you head to the Pacific Ocean and back. Though the views are epic, this race is for hardcore racers only, as the roads are steep and technical, providing plenty of challenges for you and your steed.
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Find and register for a
century ride