Century Rides in Colorado
The comprehensive 2026 directory of 100-mile centuries, metric centuries (62 miles), and endurance cycling tours across Colorado.
Cycling in Colorado: Terrain & Route Overview
For climbers and endurance purists, Colorado represents the pinnacle of North American century cycling. Here, 100-mile courses are defined by thin mountain air, long switchbacked mountain passes ascending above the tree line, and sweeping 40-mile descents down roaring river canyons. Iconic centuries such as the Triple Bypass, Copper Triangle, and Elephant Rock challenge riders with cumulative elevation gains often exceeding 8,000 to 10,000 feet. The riding season peaks between late June and early September when high-altitude snowpack melts from continental divide passes. Acclimatization is essential: starting rides above 5,000 feet and cresting passes over 11,000 feet demands steady pacing, consistent calorie intake, and warm layers for rapid alpine weather shifts. In return, cyclists experience jaw-dropping vistas of 14,000-foot peaks, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and a deep-rooted statewide cycling culture that celebrates every rider's summit achievement.
Terrain Characteristics: Epic Rocky Mountain passes, high alpine valleys, red rock canyons, and rolling Front Range plains.
Riding Season & Weather: May through September (High passes peak July–August).
📍 Colorado Century Rides Map
11 Plotted EventsColorado's Ride
AugustMulti-day high-country touring adventure through the spectacular Gunnison Valley and mountain passes.
CommonSpirit Denver Century Ride
SeptemberExplore Denver's urban cycling adventure, ride through diverse neighborhoods, parks, bike lanes, and trails, and support cycling advocacy.
Copper Triangle
AugustA cycling classic with breathtaking scenery, gorgeous roads, and three climbs over 10,000 feet.
Copper Triangle Alpine Cycling Classic
AugustIconic 79-mile alpine loop ascending Fremont Pass, Tennessee Pass, and Vail Pass around the Continental Divide.
Elevations Credit Union Buffalo Bicycle Classic
SeptemberThe Elevations Credit Union Buffalo Bicycle Classic is the University of Colorado Boulder's biggest scholarship fundraising cycling event. Riders can choose from 9 different courses, including the family-friendly Little Buff, and experience the rare opportunity to ride up Boulder Canyon while it's closed to vehicle traffic.
Mountains to the Desert Classic
SeptemberExperience the full Colorado beauty and grandeur of high mountains to desert terrain. Participate in this iconic ride to support our San Miguel County communities.
Stonewall Century
AugustA challenging road bike ride along one of Colorado’s most beautiful scenic highways, with 102 miles and +7500 ft elevation gain.
Tour de Steamboat
AugustA century ride in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, featuring gravel roads, aid stations, and a post-ride BBQ, supporting local nonprofits and celebrating the Steamboat community.
Tour de Vineyards
SeptemberScenic autumn metric touring through Palisade wine country, fruit orchards, and along the Colorado River.
Tour of the Moon
SeptemberPremier road cycling event in the western United States, showcasing the Colorado National Monument and its towering monoliths, sheer-walled red rock canyons, and panoramic views.
Triple Bypass
JulyJoin us for a cycling legend through the heart of Colorado—120 miles across three iconic Colorado mountain passes. Since 1988, the Triple has earned its bucket-list status by offering both demanding climbs and breathtaking alpine descents.