IRON HORSE 2027

At the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, cyclists depart Durango, Colorado, aiming to outpace the historic narrow gauge steam train to Silverton. This race occurs on Memorial Weekend and has been a fixture in Durango cycling since 1971. The primary road event covers 50 miles, but the distance is challenging: riders ascend two passes exceeding 10,000 feet on the highway through the San Juan Mountains. The weekend also features gravel and mountain bike events, attracting serious competitors, local cyclists, newcomers, and many spectators. The classic course follows the Durango-to-Silverton road, a high mountain journey where the train matchup feels substantive. The McDonald’s Citizen Tour is the main event for non-elite riders, following the same 50-mile format without focusing solely on victory. Other weekend activities include La Strada La Plata Gravel and the Durango Mesa Cycling Festival. Durango possesses a strong cycling community, and the race's past winners include local professional Sepp Kuss, who won after competing at the highest international level.