The OG American Spring Classic. 130 miles of kasseien-crushing brutality where 1 in 3 riders DNF, and the survivors earn
530 miles of high-altitude suffering across the spine of the Rockies - 75% of starters don't finish, and that's the poin
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Colorado Trail Race scores 11 points higher overall (90 vs 79), but the right choice depends on what you value most.
"Belgian suffering translated to sunny San Diego, where Double Peak turns roadies into believers and flatlanders into casualties."
"The Colorado Trail doesn't care about your FTP when you're pushing your bike through talus fields at 13,000 feet."
Colorado Trail Race rates as the more demanding race based on our composite difficulty score (averaging length, technicality, elevation, climate, and altitude ratings). If you're looking for the bigger challenge, go with Colorado Trail Race. If you want a more accessible race, Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego is the better pick.
Colorado Trail Race scores 90/100 compared to 79/100 in our 15-dimension Gravel God Rating. The overall score reflects course profile, prestige, race quality, community, and value.
Colorado Trail Race is generally more accessible for first-time gravel racers, factoring in distance, technicality, and logistical ease. Check each race's full profile for distance options and beginner-specific advice.
Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego takes place in April and Colorado Trail Race in August. If your calendar allows, you could race both in the same season.
Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego is held in Del Mar, California. Colorado Trail Race is held in Durango to Denver, Colorado. Consider travel logistics, especially if you're flying in — check our full race profiles for airport and lodging details.
Get a personalized training plan for either race — tailored to your fitness, schedule, and goals.
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