Updated April 2, 2024
Valley Spokesmen Bicycling Club is celebrating the 40th annual Mt. Diablo Challenge, an 11.2-mile ride that climbs to the summit of Mount Diablo, one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area. It is a 3,249-foot climb up South Gate Road through Mount Diablo State Park that is closed to cars or cyclists not involved in the challenge. What’s exceptional is that Mt. Diablo’s road will be car-free, giving more than 800 cyclists an exclusive opportunity to pedal their way up one of the San Francisco Bay Area’s loftiest peaks. A vista from the summit on a clear day might even reward you with views stretching to the Farallon Islands and the Sierras. It’s an event that the team at Strambecco considers to be one of the Best Road Cycling Events in California and the Southwest.
Mt. Diablo Challenge was previously hosted by Save Mount Diablo but has been taken over by Valley Spokesmen Bicycling Club since 2017 to broaden participation, emphasizing family participation. Mt Diablo Challenge benefits Save Mount Diablo through donations made during registration.
Event & Course Info
Starting from the Athenian School, cyclists at the Mt. Diablo Challenge will ascend South Gate Rd, eventually reaching Summit Rd, and finally, the summit itself. This 11.2-mile journey, with its 3,249 feet of elevation gain, promises a challenge. From road bikes (single or tandem) to mountain bikes, fixed-gear, unicycles, and outdoor elliptical bikes, diversity is encouraged. E-bikes of Class 1 & 3 are permissible, albeit without eligibility for awards.
While there’s limited water at the starting point, hydration is available en route. The summit welcomes participants with a spread of coffee, water, energy bars, and other snacks. Additionally, bike mechanics will be stationed both at the beginning and the peak. However, note that no SAG vehicles will patrol the course.
With waves of cyclists based on estimated finish times, the first wave is flagged off at 8:15 am. Those in the first waves enjoy the privilege of the entire road width during ascent. However, post-celebration at the top, all must adhere to a descending protocol, ensuring safety.
The ride culminates in a grand celebration at Monte Vista High School, with BBQ, music, drinks, and awards. Beyond the ultimate titles of King and Queen of the Mountain, prizes await in 17 age categories. With separate podiums for men and women and special awards for the oldest and youngest participants, the Mt. Diablo Challenge ensures that every pedal stroke counts.
There is a field limit of 1,000 riders, ensuring a manageable and enjoyable experience for all, and while vehicular access to the mountain is restricted during the event, loved ones can join in the after-ride celebrations at Monte Vista High School.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
There is no official lodging partner for the Mt. Diablo Challenge, but there are many options in the area including Embassy Suites and Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa. There are also plenty of vacation rentals around for those that are looking for a more home-like experience, from guesthouses to apartments. If you enjoy camping, there are also public campgrounds like Live Oak and Juniper in Mount Diablo State Park.
Danville boasts a diverse culinary scene, seamlessly blending upscale eateries with charming local cafes, offering everything from gourmet Californian dishes to international cuisines, all set against the town’s quaint and historic backdrop. Some options include Revel Kitchen & Bar and The Peasant & The Pear, while Mount Diablo also has many dining options with lodging near the summit and restaurants like Moresi’s Chophouse and Ed’s Mudville Grill.
If you’re planning a longer visit while in town for the Mt. Diablo Challenge, there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. Just a short drive from the heart of Danville, the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness beckons hikers with its rugged landscapes and panoramic views. With over 5,342 acres of wilderness, the area is home to a vast network of trails, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to challenging hikes for seasoned trekkers. One popular trail is the Rocky Ridge View Trail, a moderately challenging 5.2-mile loop that offers breathtaking vistas of Mount Diablo and the San Ramon Valley.
Spanning 32 miles from Concord to Pleasanton, the Iron Horse Regional Trail runs right through Danville, making it a convenient starting point for cyclists looking to put in some extra miles. Originally a railway track, this multi-use trail has been repurposed for pedestrians, horse riders, and cyclists, providing a safe and scenic route through the East Bay. With its flat terrain, the trail is suitable for cyclists of all levels. As you pedal along, you’ll pass through a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including serene parks, bustling town centers, and picturesque open spaces. Given its length, cyclists can choose to tackle the entire trail or just a segment, making it customizable to individual stamina and time constraints.
For those with a penchant for climbing, the Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area offers a unique opportunity to test your skills. Situated just a short drive from Danville, this park is renowned for its sandstone boulders, making it a favorite spot for bouldering enthusiasts. The area caters to climbers of all levels, from beginners to experts. Apart from bouldering, the park also has picnic areas and hiking trails, making it a versatile destination for a day out. As the Fall colors set in, the contrast of the orange and brown hues of the rocks against the changing foliage provides a picturesque backdrop for climbers.
Related Events
While Mt. Diablo Challenge is the only event produced by the organizer, there are many other top rated road cycling events in California such as the Tour of CA Alps – Death Ride, the Sea Otter Classic from Life Time Events, and Phil’s Cookie Fondo.
For multi-sport athletes, check out other Strambecco best-rated events taking place in California, like Truckee Tahoe Gravel from premier organizer Bike Monkey, the Lost & Found Gravel Festival by the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, and the infamous Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) – California in San Diego from Monuments of Cycling and part of its Quadrupel Crown of Gravel Series. These events are considered by our team to be some of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in NorCal, all of California and the Southwest.
Cyclists who like real dirt under their tires will appreciate the bounty of top-tier mountain biking events held in the state and region, from the Grizzly 100 & Big Bear MTB Grand Fondo from Bear Valley Bikes and an NUE series event to the Tahoe Trail; there is a wide range of options to fill your calendar.
Lastly, the trail runners of the group can explore premier in-state events such as the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs, the Catalina Marathon, and the prestigious Western States 100, which is a UTMB qualifier and part of the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning. All of these are some of the Best Trail Running Events in the Southwest.
