The OG American Spring Classic. 130 miles of kasseien-crushing brutality where 1 in 3 riders DNF, and the survivors earn
The Race Across the Sky. 100 miles at 10,000+ feet. The belt buckle that defines mountain biking.
| Belgian Waffle Ride Sa | Leadville Trail 100 MT | |
|---|---|---|
| COURSE PROFILE | ||
| Length | ||
| Technicality | ||
| Elevation | ||
| Climate | ||
| Altitude | ||
| Logistics | ||
| Adventure | ||
| EDITORIAL ASSESSMENT | ||
| Prestige | ||
| Race Quality | ||
| Experience | ||
| Community | ||
| Field Depth | ||
| Value | ||
| Expenses | ||
Leadville Trail 100 MTB scores 10 points higher overall (89 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 mountain bike endurance race that defines the category. Bucket list for a reason."
Leadville Trail 100 MTB 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 Leadville Trail 100 MTB. If you want a more accessible race, Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego is the better pick.
Leadville Trail 100 MTB scores 89/100 compared to 79/100 in our 15-dimension Gravel God Rating. The overall score reflects course profile, prestige, race quality, community, and value.
Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego 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 Leadville Trail 100 MTB 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. Leadville Trail 100 MTB is held in Leadville, 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.
$15/week, capped at $249. One-time payment.