About Tour de Big Bear

Experience the ultimate high-altitude cycling challenge in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains. The Tour de Big Bear is more than just a ride - it is a premier Gran Fondo experience designed for cyclists who crave breathtaking scenery, demanding climbs, and the personal satisfaction of conquering the mountain. Whether you are chasing a personal best on our timed segments or soaking in the alpine views, this event offers the perfect blend of athletic challenge and scenic beauty.

There's even a MTB race event at the Tour de Big Bear - a thrilling 50K XC adventure on Saturday

Your Alpine Challenge

We invite you to test your limits on some of Southern California's most iconic roads. With crisp mountain air, towering pines, and winding descents, the Tour de Big Bear provides a spectacular backdrop for your next cycling milestone. This event is built for those who love the sport, offering a professional-level atmosphere where every rider can push their boundaries and celebrate their hard-earned achievement at the finish line.

What to Expect

Timed Segments - Test your climbing prowess and speed on designated sections of the course to track your performance.
Scenic Alpine Routes - Ride through stunning forest landscapes and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Fully Supported Ride - Experience peace of mind with well-stocked aid stations and support vehicles along the entire route.
Finisher Rewards - Celebrate your accomplishment with exclusive finisher gear and a vibrant post-ride festival.
Community Vibe - Join a passionate community of cyclists in a fun, inclusive, and energetic mountain atmosphere.

Course Description

The Tour de Big Bear features a variety of routes tailored to different fitness levels, all showcasing the rugged beauty of the Big Bear Valley. Riders will encounter challenging ascents, technical descents, and smooth pavement throughout the high-altitude terrain.

Course Name	Description	Elevation Profile
Gran Fondo	Our premier distance offering the full mountain experience with significant climbing and challenging terrain.	High elevation gain; challenging.
Metric Century	A balanced route perfect for those seeking a substantial challenge without the full distance of the Gran.	Moderate to high elevation gain.
Short Course	An approachable, scenic route that provides the authentic mountain cycling experience for all abilities.	Varied terrain; accessible.

Event Highlights

Post-Ride Festival - Relax and recharge at the event village with live entertainment, local vendors, and a celebratory atmosphere for all riders and families.
Aid Stations - Stay fueled with nutrition and hydration at multiple stations, staffed by friendly volunteers dedicated to your success.
Awards and Recognition - Celebrate top performances on the timed segments and recognize the dedication of our cycling community.
Family Activities - With a welcoming environment, the event is designed to be enjoyable for riders and supporters alike, fostering a true mountain cycling celebration.
Safety First - Our course is marked with precision, and professional support is on-hand to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for every participant.

Tour de Big Bear 70 Mile Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

What level of fitness is required for the Tour de Big Bear?

This event offers multiple distance options, making it suitable for a range of fitness levels, from moderate riders to those seeking a grueling high-altitude challenge. Because the courses feature significant elevation gain, we recommend being comfortable with sustained climbing before joining us to tackle your personal achievement.

How does the timed segment feature work for participants?

We include professionally managed, timed segments on our routes to give you the chance to test your speed and endurance against yourself or fellow riders. These segments are the perfect way to track your performance and celebrate your personal best in a high-energy Gran Fondo environment.

What should I expect from the high-altitude terrain?

Riding in the San Bernardino Mountains means you will experience crisp, thin mountain air, steep climbs, and rapid descents. We advise all riders to prepare for high-elevation exertion and to stay well-hydrated throughout the course.

Are there support services available along the routes?

Absolutely! We provide a fully supported experience to ensure you can focus on your ride, including:

Well-stocked aid stations with nutrition and hydration
On-course mechanical support
Professional-style route management

What rewards can I look forward to at the finish line?

Beyond the immense satisfaction of conquering the mountain, all participants receive a custom finisher medal to commemorate their achievement. You can also look forward to our vibrant post-ride celebration, where you can share stories of the day with fellow cycling enthusiasts.

Are there activities for friends and family who are not riding?

Yes, the weekend includes the Big Bear Cycling Festival, which offers a bike expo and family-friendly activities like a free Kids Fun Ride. It is a fantastic destination for spectators to enjoy the festive atmosphere while waiting for their riders to cross the finish line.

Big Bear Cycling Association

Tour de Big Bear