Iron Horse Classic
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is a famous annual cycling event held in Durango, Colorado, typically over the Memorial Day weekend. It’s one of the most iconic and challenging bike rides in the U.S., attracting thousands of riders of all levels. The event’s hallmark ride is a race against the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, where cyclists race the historic train from Durango to Silverton, covering around 50 miles (80 km) and climbing over 6,700 feet in elevation. The race was started in 1972 by brothers Tom and Jim Mayer. Tom worked for the Durango & Silverton Railroad and challenged his brother Jim, an avid cyclist, to race the train. Jim won that first challenge, and the tradition has continued ever since. Over the decades, the Iron Horse Classic has grown into one of the most popular cycling events in Colorado, drawing participants from all over the world. The ride features two major climbs: Coal Bank Pass (10,640 feet) and Molas Pass (10,910 feet), offering breathtaking views but demanding stamina and strength.
Region: Colorado
City: Durango
Distance: 73.42 km
Elevation Gain: 1714 m
Elevation Loss: 900 m
Difficulty: 1127 (Very Hard)
FIETS Index: 2.73 FIETS
Avg Grade: 2.08 %
Max cat climb: HC
Min elevation: 2010 m
Max elevation: 3322 m
Ride Category: Climb