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May 22-24, 2026
Join Us In 2026!
Welcome to the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic isn’t just a race — it’s a legendary Colorado tradition and one of the most iconic cycling events in the country. Every year, thousands of cyclists and spectators gather in Durango, Colorado on Memorial Weekend to witness an unforgettable test of endurance, grit, and speed as riders race the historic narrow gauge steam train all the way to Silverton.
Since 1971, this one-of-a-kind event has challenged cyclists to conquer the breathtaking — and demanding — Durango to Silverton highway, climbing two 10,000' passes through the heart of the San Juan Mountains. - Learn About the Event History
Events for Every Rider
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a first-time participant, the Iron Horse offers something for everyone:
McDonalds Citizen Tour
The most popular event, featuring a 50-mile ride through stunning Colorado scenery, from Durango to Silverton Colorado. This untimed ride is perfect for recreational riders and competitive cyclists alike.
CocaCola Road Race
This Timed and Competitive race uses the same course as the Tour from Durango to Silverton. Line up and race against the best in your category!
Quarter Horse
Riders will tour the 25 scenic miles from Durango to Purgatory Resort. After riding through the gorgeous Animas River Valley, you’ll tackle more than 2300 feet of vertical climb to finish in the Village Plaza.
Silverton Finish
As you roll into Silverton you will be greeted by cheering crowds, vendors, food trucks and a beer garden to celebrate your huge achievement!
LaStrada LaPlata Gravel Race
Starting in iconic downtown Durango, the Gravel race is a rugged 55 Mile gravel challenge showcasing the raw beauty and adventure of Southwest Colorado.
Subaru Mountain Bike Race
A classic Durango race using trails around Fort Lewis College and Chapman Hill, with laps through SteamWorks Brewery featuring live music and large crowds to cheer you on!
Cycling Festival
A weekend celebration of cycling with, live music, beer garden, vendors and fun for all ages.
More Than a Race
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is a weekend-long celebration. Spectators line the route, cheer riders through town, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the steam train rolling through mountain canyons. Families, friends, and fans gather to soak in the energy, support the riders, enjoy live music and beer gardens and experience one of Durango’s most beloved traditions.
Whether you’re riding, racing, or cheering from the sidelines, the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is an unforgettable experience where history, community, and cycling collide. Gear up, line up, and be part of the legend.
Since 1971, this one-of-a-kind event has challenged cyclists to conquer the breathtaking — and demanding — Durango to Silverton highway, climbing two 10,000' passes through the heart of the San Juan Mountains. - Learn About the Event History
Events for Every Rider
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a first-time participant, the Iron Horse offers something for everyone:
Saturday May 23rd -
McDonalds Citizen Tour
The most popular event, featuring a 50-mile ride through stunning Colorado scenery, from Durango to Silverton Colorado. This untimed ride is perfect for recreational riders and competitive cyclists alike.
CocaCola Road Race
This Timed and Competitive race uses the same course as the Tour from Durango to Silverton. Line up and race against the best in your category!
Quarter Horse
Riders will tour the 25 scenic miles from Durango to Purgatory Resort. After riding through the gorgeous Animas River Valley, you’ll tackle more than 2300 feet of vertical climb to finish in the Village Plaza.
Silverton Finish
As you roll into Silverton you will be greeted by cheering crowds, vendors, food trucks and a beer garden to celebrate your huge achievement!
Sunday May 24th -
LaStrada LaPlata Gravel Race
Starting in iconic downtown Durango, the Gravel race is a rugged 55 Mile gravel challenge showcasing the raw beauty and adventure of Southwest Colorado.
Subaru Mountain Bike Race
A classic Durango race using trails around Fort Lewis College and Chapman Hill, with laps through SteamWorks Brewery featuring live music and large crowds to cheer you on!
Cycling Festival
A weekend celebration of cycling with, live music, beer garden, vendors and fun for all ages.
More Than a Race
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is a weekend-long celebration. Spectators line the route, cheer riders through town, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the steam train rolling through mountain canyons. Families, friends, and fans gather to soak in the energy, support the riders, enjoy live music and beer gardens and experience one of Durango’s most beloved traditions.
Whether you’re riding, racing, or cheering from the sidelines, the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is an unforgettable experience where history, community, and cycling collide. Gear up, line up, and be part of the legend.
Event Sponsors
Title Sponsors
