A Comprehensive Guide to the Tour of the Gila in New Mexico

New Mexico is home to some of the most spectacular cycling routes in the United States. The Tour of the Gila is an annual bicycle race that takes riders through some of the most stunning terrain in the Southwest. The Tour of the Gila takes place in the Gila National Forest, the largest wilderness area in the continental United States. This comprehensive guide to the Tour of the Gila will give cyclists all the information they need to make their journey as safe and enjoyable as possible. We’ll discuss the route, the best places to stay and eat, and any additional tips and tricks to make the Tour of the Gila a memorable and rewarding experience. The Tour of the Gila is a challenging event, and riders should be sure to prepare appropriately. We’ll look at pre-race training, nutrition, and equipment needed for the Tour of the Gila. We’ll also go over what to expect during the race, the terrain along the route, and safety considerations. For experienced cyclists, the Tour of the Gila provides a unique challenge. For those just getting into the sport, the Tour of the Gila is a great way to experience the exhilaration of long-distance cycling. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this guide will provide the tools to make your Tour of the Gila experience a successful one. So let’s get started. In the following sections, we’ll explore the Tour of the Gila route, the best places to stay, and all the tips and tricks you’ll need to make the most out of your adventure. With all the details and guidance in this guide, you’ll be ready to tackle the Tour of the Gila in no time.

A Comprehensive Guide to the Tour of the Gila in New Mexico

What is the Tour of the Gila?

The Tour of the Gila is an annual multi-stage road bicycle race that takes place in New Mexico's Gila National Forest. The race consists of five stages, which are spread out over five days and cover a total distance of approximately 600 miles. Along the way, riders must traverse tough terrain, including elevation gains of up to 14,000 feet. First held in 1984, the Tour of the Gila is one of the oldest and most prestigious international cycling events in the United States.

History of the Race

The Tour of the Gila was first held in 1984, making it one of the oldest stage races in the United States. It was created by cycling legend Greg LeMond, who wanted to create a race that would be a challenge for even the most experienced riders. Throughout its history, the Tour of the Gila has seen some of cycling’s greatest athletes come to compete. In 1994, the Tour of the Gila was added to the World Cycling calendar, making it an official part of the competitive cycling scene.

The Course

The Tour of the Gila consists of five stages. The first stage is a time trial that takes place in downtown Silver City. The second stage is a road race that takes place in the Gila National Forest. The third stage is a criterium in downtown Silver City. The fourth stage is a hilly road race that takes place in the Mimbres Valley. The fifth and final stage is a time trial that takes place in downtown Silver City.

Notable Winners

Since its inception, the Tour of the Gila has seen some of the best cyclists in the world come to compete. Notable winners of the Tour of the Gila include Lance Armstrong, Greg LeMond, and Levi Leipheimer. Other riders who have won the race include Tyler Hamilton, Tom Danielson, and Floyd Landis.

Things to Do in Silver City

Silver City is the host city for the Tour of the Gila, and there is plenty to do both before and after the race. Silver City is home to a variety of art galleries, museums, and other attractions. Popular tourist spots include the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, the Silver City Museum, and the Silver City Farmers Market. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and other nightlife options for visitors to enjoy.

Conclusion

The Tour of the Gila is one of the toughest and most prestigious cycling events in the United States. The race consists of five stages, spread out over five days, and covers a total distance of about 600 miles. Notable winners of the race include Lance Armstrong, Greg LeMond, and Levi Leipheimer. Silver City is the host city for the race, and there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy both before and after the race. The Tour of the Gila is a spectacular bike race that winds its way through the majestic canyons, hills and valleys of New Mexico. The race draws thousands of cyclists and spectators each year, making it one of the most exciting cycling events in the nation. It’s a race that’s not for the faint of heart, as the terrain is challenging, the competition is fierce and the rewards are great. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an amateur looking to push your limits, the Tour of the Gila is an unforgettable experience. The race consists of five stages, each of which presents unique challenges and opportunities for cyclists. The overall winner of the tour is the rider who accumulates the most points during the five stages, with points awarded for different categories, such as individual time-trial, best climber, most aggressive rider and so on. For those who finish the Tour of the Gila, it’s a tremendous accomplishment and a chance to become part of the legendary cycling history of New Mexico. The Tour of the Gila is a great event for cyclists of all levels and ages. It’s an opportunity to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and to compete in a unique and exciting event. From the novice to the pro, the Tour of the Gila is a race that will challenge, thrill and inspire all who take part in it. Even if you’re not competing, the Tour of the Gila is a great event to watch and cheer on the riders. Whether you’re a devoted cyclist or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the Tour of the Gila is definitely worth checking out.