Competitive, endurance, multi‑day, and charity cycling marathons.
All Major U.S. Cycling Marathons: The Ultimate Guide to America’s Biggest Rides
Cycling marathons have become one of the most popular endurance challenges in the United States. From coast-to-coast tours to high-altitude climbs and multi-day adventures, these events attract riders of all skill levels. Some marathons are competitive, others are recreational, and many are designed to push riders to their physical and mental limits.
This guide covers the biggest and most iconic cycling marathons across the country — including competitive races, century rides, multi-day tours, and legendary endurance challenges. Whether you're training for your first 100-mile ride or planning a bucket-list cycling adventure, this list will help you find the perfect event.
What Counts as a Cycling Marathon?
A “cycling marathon” typically refers to any long-distance ride of 75–200+ miles, often completed in a single day or across multiple days. These events test endurance, strategy, and mental toughness. Many include:
- Century rides (100 miles)
- Double centuries (200 miles)
- Multi-day tours
- Competitive road races
- Gran fondos
- Ultra-endurance challenges
Major U.S. Cycling Marathons
1. Seattle to Portland (STP) – Washington & Oregon
One of the largest cycling events in the country, the STP covers 206 miles from Seattle to Portland. Riders can complete it in one or two days. Known for its massive turnout and scenic route.
2. RAGBRAI – Iowa
The oldest, largest, and longest recreational bicycle touring event in the world. RAGBRAI spans 400–500 miles across Iowa over seven days, attracting tens of thousands of riders.
3. Hotter’N Hell Hundred – Texas
A legendary 100-mile ride held in Wichita Falls during peak summer heat. It’s one of the toughest single-day century rides in the U.S.
4. Tour of the California Alps – Death Ride – California
A brutal 129-mile ride with over 15,000 feet of climbing across five mountain passes. A true test for elite endurance cyclists.
5. Ride the Rockies – Colorado
A multi-day tour through Colorado’s most stunning mountain passes. Distances vary, but riders often cover 400+ miles over a week.
6. The Triple Bypass – Colorado
A 120-mile ride crossing three major Rocky Mountain passes. Known for breathtaking views and intense elevation gain.
7. Five Boro Bike Tour – New York
A 40-mile ride through all five boroughs of NYC. Not a marathon distance, but one of the largest cycling events in the world with 30,000+ riders.
8. El Tour de Tucson – Arizona
A premier cycling event offering distances from 28 to 102 miles. The 102-mile marathon route is the most popular.
9. The Assault on Mount Mitchell – North Carolina
A grueling 102-mile ride finishing at the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Famous for its relentless climbing.
10. Gran Fondo New York (GFNY) – New York
A competitive 100-mile race starting on the George Washington Bridge. Known for its international field of riders.
11. Tour of the Battenkill – New York
A challenging 75-mile race with gravel sections and steep climbs. Often called “America’s Queen of the Classics.”
12. The Vermont Gran Fondo – Vermont
A 100+ mile ride with some of the toughest climbs in New England. Perfect for riders who love elevation.
13. The Michigan Coast-to-Coast Gravel Grinder – Michigan
A 210-mile gravel marathon from Lake Huron to Lake Michigan. One of the longest gravel races in the country.
14. The Dirty Kanza (Unbound Gravel) – Kansas
A world-famous gravel endurance race with distances up to 200 miles. Known for extreme heat and rugged terrain.
15. The Natchez Trace Century Ride – Mississippi
A scenic 100-mile ride along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway. Popular for its smooth roads and beautiful landscapes.
Recommended Gear for Marathon Riders
Hydration Packs for Long Rides
Road Bike Tires for Endurance Cycling
Final Thoughts
Cycling marathons offer unforgettable experiences, whether you're chasing a personal record, exploring new landscapes, or riding with thousands of fellow cyclists. With events ranging from scenic tours to brutal endurance challenges, there’s a marathon for every type of rider. Start training, choose your event, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
Keywords: cycling marathons, US bike events, endurance cycling, century rides, gran fondo USA, long distance cycling, bike tours USA, cycling challenges
