103 Miles • 6 Rated Climbs over 3 Sierra Nevada Passes • Over 14K' Elevation Gain
World Class Cycling • You Pick the Challenge!
40 Years of Cycling the California Alps
Challenge yourself to the premier cycling event in California - and celebrate our 40th year in cycling history on July 17, 2021. This year's route offers over 14,000' of climbing, 103 miles, and up to 6 highly categorized mountain climbs! This ride is sure to challenge you, inspire you, and leave you wanting more. Organized by Bike the West Director and Death Ride veteran Curtis Fong, the event is led by a professional team of cyclists.
The Route
Starting and finishing at Turtle Rock Park in Markleeville, Calif., the 103 mile course begins at 5:30 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 13-hour timeframe may purchase the sought-after Death Ride® - Tour of the California Alps 40th Anniversary Finisher's Jersey. All athletes, their families, and spectators are encouraged to join us at the finish line festival for food, photos, comaraderie and to visit our expo booths and sponsors.
View the new route tested by Pete Stetina
The course route, water and rest stop locations are subject to change without notice. Road closures will be in effect from 5am - 4pm. The 13-hour 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.
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 sought-after cycling venue, it is the primary fundraiser of the Alpine County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor's Center, whose mission is to promote business prosperity, tourism marketing, and a healthy community for Alpine County and its neighbors.
The goal: keeping Alpine County's economic vitality alive 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 40th Anniversary Ride 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...
Adventure Sports Journal
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
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
California Alps Cycling
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
California Alps Cycling
Cycle California
From cycling apparel to gear, nutrition and more, CapData Cycling is joining us this year in support of the Death Ride and to promote and encourage the cycling lifestyle...
Cycle California
California Alps Cycling
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!
United States Forest Service
United States Forest Service
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...
United States Forest Service
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...