103 Miles • Ebbetts Pass, Monitor Pass, Pacific Grade • Over 14K' Vertical Climb
2022 Photos
Thanks to everyone who joined us at the 2022 Death Ride, and debut of the Pacific Grade route! Photos are now available...
World Class Cycling • You Pick the Challenge!
41 Years of Cycling the California Alps
Challenge yourself to the premier cycling event in California. The route offers over 14,000' of climbing, 103 miles, and up to six (6) HC Alpine climbs . This ride is sure to challenge you, inspire you, and leave you wanting more.
Read Cycle California Magazine's Article "Riding With Friends" by veteran Death Rider, Bo Crane.
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The Route
Starting and finishing at Turtle Rock Park in Markleeville, Calif., the 103 mile course begins at 5:00 am and covers both sides of three mountain passes: Monitor Pass (Hwy 89), Ebbetts Pass (Hwy 4), and the Pacific Grade (Hwy 4). The full course is not for the faint at heart! The course will be closed to traffic from Markleeville through all sections of climbing, with a turnaround point at Lake Alpine where participants will head back to the finish at Turtle Rock Park.
Those who complete all of the climbs and return to the finish line within the event timeframe may purchase the sought-after Death Ride® - Tour of the California Alps Finisher's Jersey. All athletes, their families, and spectators are encouraged to join us at the finish line festival for food, photos, camaraderie and to visit our expo booths and sponsors.
View the route on Strava and tested by Pete Stetina
The course route, water and rest stop locations and cutoff times are subject to change. Road closures will be in effect from 5am - 4pm. The event time limit ends at 6:30 pm, and all riders must be off the course by 7:00 pm. All cut-off times are strictly enforced. Segment cut-off times indicate the latest time that a rider will be allowed to begin each segment. Riders attempting to begin a segment after the cut-off time will not be allowed to proceed.
Train with veteran cyclists! The Alta Alpina Cycling Club will be hosting training rides throughout the spring and summer. Learn more >>
History
The Death Ride started in 1978 when five guys decided to cycle the California Alps in one day, with just the support of friends and family following along in a vehicle. The event quickly grew to worldwide recognition in the cycling community, and is a sought-after event for those looking for a serious challenge.
Today, the ride still caters to the elite mountain cyclists, but also offers a range of challenge levels, from one pass to up to six highly categorized climbs over Monitor Pass, Ebbetts Pass, and the Pacific Grade.
The event is not only a highly sought after cycling challenge, it is the primary fundraiser of the Alpine County Chamber of Commerce and many local nonprofits that serve the communities of Markleeville, Woodfords, Bear Valley and Kirkwood.
The goal: Supporting a vibrant economy and healthy community while providing a world class destination for cyclists, fishermen, hikers, climbers, skiers, and many more. We thank those who have participated in past year's Death Rides, and who have contributed to help us keep our mission alive.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
ATAQ Fuel
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
ATAQ Fuel has joined us for the 2021 ride, as the premier electrolyte provider of the ride. They've provided plant-based electrolyte drink at each aid station so our riders can kick butt...naturally!
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
One of the longest-standing sponsors of the Death Ride, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. also just celebrated their 40th anniversary! Cheers to 40 years...
Yates Law, PC
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Blind Dog Coffee
Joe Yates has supported the Death Ride for many years as a participant, and now Yates Law, PC is a Death Ride Platinum Sponsor. Join us on July 16 and you'll probably see Joe out there on course!
Blind Dog Coffee
Adventure Sports Journal
Blind Dog Coffee
Shout out to Blind Dog Coffee who will again be joining us at the starting line and Expo with fresh coffee and danishes for cyclists and expo partners alike!
Adventure Sports Journal
Adventure Sports Journal
Adventure Sports Journal
Because they love the outdoors, and so do we! ASJ is a natural partner in the Death Ride. Read up on all things active and outdoors, from cycling, hiking, climbing, and surfing...
California Alps Cycling
Adventure Sports Journal
Adventure Sports Journal
California Alps Cycling is a dedicated partner of the Death Ride, the Alpine County Chamber, our California Alps community, and an advocate of all things cycling and outdoors! Check them out...
CapData Cycling
Harriman Law, Jonathan Harriman
Cycle California
From cycling apparel to gear, nutrition and more, CapData Cycling has joined us again this year in support of the Death Ride and all things cycling!
Cycle California
Harriman Law, Jonathan Harriman
Cycle California
Looking for bicycling inspiration? Go to the source - our long-time supporter Cycle California has the latest on all things cycling - road, mtb, and more!
Harriman Law, Jonathan Harriman
Harriman Law, Jonathan Harriman
Harriman Law, Jonathan Harriman
Harriman Law joined us this year with a shared concern for bicyclist safety. An attorney for bicycle crash, automobile, and personal injury cases, an active volunteer, and an avid cyclist, Jonathan will be cycling alongside you in the Death Ride® this July!
The PIckle Juice Company, LLC
The PIckle Juice Company, LLC
Harriman Law, Jonathan Harriman
Thanks to Pickle Juice® for helping Death Ride participants crush their goals. Pickle Juice® will be available at most major rest stops throughout the course to stop muscle cramps and give you the edge you need to finish.
United States Forest Service
The PIckle Juice Company, LLC
United States Forest Service
The Death Ride could not take place without the support and partnership of the USFS Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Stanislaus National Forest. Many thanks to the stewards of our natural resources...
Become a Sponsor...
The PIckle Juice Company, LLC
United States Forest Service
Reach thousands of active cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and promote your brand at one of the most recognized cycling events in the west! Learn more by calling (530) 694-2475 or visit our sponsorship page...