Course Description

Both the metric and the century cycling routes start in historic downtown Fresno, and rolls along on flat roads to State Freeway 168.  One unique aspect of this route is that Freeway 168 will be completely shut down to vehicle traffic which allows cyclists complete and safe access to this new route.

Century Route (click to view interactive route)

After leaving the freeway the century riders head out to Academy Avenue and will then split off from the metric route and head east into the foothills along Trimmer Springs road.  They will encounter a few short climbs along Trimmer Springs as it parallels and then crosses the beautiful and scenic Kings River.

The century riders will again turn east and climb into Wonder Valley.  There is a short and steep climb into the valley, then rolling hills and a few cattle grates as they enter open range country.  At the eastern end of Wonder Valley, riders will start climbing again along Elwood Road, first into a narrow canyon, then as the canyon widens a bit, flanked by Bear Mountain on the right and Daulton Mountain on the left.

There are three miles of climbing along Elwood Road, with gradients ranging from 3% to 7%, topping out at the highest point of the ride at just over 1900' elevation.  Century riders will be treated to several long and safe descents back to flat valley floor roads, where they will rejoin the metric route.

Metric Route (click to view interactive route)

Once the century riders head east off Belmont Avenue, the metric riders will turn right and head southwest along E Trimmer Springs Road until they head south along Riverbend Avenue and make their way west to Academy Ave. The remainder of the ride will be heading west back into downtown Fresno. This is a beautiful scenic route with less than 500 ft of total climbing and is an excellent choice for beginning riders or those who would like a shorter, primarily flat  course.

Mini Metric (click to view interactive route)

The Mini Metric route takes you on Freeway 168 just like the Century and Metric Century.  The 35 mile mini metric route is for those not quite ready for the Century or Metric Century distance.