Master the Mountains at the Tour of the Catskills
Spectators gather in the heart of Tannersville to witness high-speed finishes and the grit of athletes tackling some of the most iconic pavement in New York State. Whether you are hunting for sprint points or aiming for a podium spot in your category, the atmosphere is electric, professional, and intensely competitive.
What to Expect
- Elite Field Size - Join hundreds of competitive cyclists in a mass-start format that tests your positioning and pack-riding skills.
- Strategic Sprint Points - Mid-course segments provide opportunities for aggressive riders to showcase their power before the major climbs.
- Professional Neutral Support - Stay in the race with dedicated support vehicles and well-stocked aid stations positioned at critical intervals.
- Championship Atmosphere - Experience the thrill of a professional-grade finish line with announcer commentary and live results.
- Spectator-Friendly Hub - Friends and family can enjoy the mountain air in Tannersville while waiting for the peloton to return for the final sprint.
- Post-Race Podium Ceremonies - Stick around to honor the top finishers across multiple age and ability categories with official awards.
Course Description
The Tour of the Catskills features three distinct, fully paved routes designed to challenge different levels of competitive experience. The centerpiece of the weekend is the 75-mile route, which includes the legendary ascent of Platte Clove, better known as the Devil's Kitchen.
| Route Distance | Course Intensity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 75 Miles | Extreme / Professional | Includes the "Devil's Kitchen" climb - a 2-mile ascent with grades exceeding 15%. |
| 50 Miles | High / Competitive | Focuses on rolling mountain terrain and technical valley descents. |
| 25 Miles | Moderate / Sprint | A fast-paced circuit designed for those who prefer high-speed flats and punchy rollers. |
The 75-mile course is widely considered one of the hardest road race routes in the country. After navigating the rolling hills of the Catskill high peaks, riders face the Devil's Kitchen. This climb is a true selection point, often shattering the lead group and determining the ultimate podium contenders. The descent back into Tannersville requires absolute focus and technical precision, rewarding the most complete riders in the field.
Event Highlights
- The Devil's Kitchen - Conquer one of the most infamous climbs in American road cycling, known for its steep ramps and unforgiving hairpins.
- Official Race Categories - Competitive brackets ensure you are racing against peers of similar skill and age for a fair, high-stakes experience.
- Mountain Festival Vibe - The race village in Tannersville offers a vibrant backdrop with local vendors and cycling enthusiasts.
- Technical Support & Amenities - Participants receive comprehensive course marking, mechanical support, and post-race recovery meals.
- Awards & Prizes - Top performers in each field are recognized during the podium ceremonies, celebrating the dedication required to finish this grueling event.
Check Out the Views and the Climb at the Tour of the Catskills
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the race categories and field size limits for this event?
The Tour of the Catskills offers a variety of competitive categories tailored to different skill levels and age groups. To maintain rider safety and competitive integrity on the mountain roads, field sizes are capped - please check the event website for the latest category availability and limits.
How technical is the 75-mile route and the Devil's Kitchen climb?
The 75-mile route is a high-intensity course featuring the infamous Devil's Kitchen, a climb known for its punishingly steep and sustained grades. This section is often the tactical focal point of the race where the lead group is established before the final descent back to Tannersville.
Are there designated sprint points or King of the Mountain segments?
Yes, the race includes specific sprint points and KOM/QOM segments to reward aggressive riding and climbing specialists. These mid-race competitions add a technical layer to the event, with points contributing to overall standings or individual prizes.
What gearing is recommended for the Catskill mountain terrain?
Due to the extreme gradients found on the Devil's Kitchen climb, most competitive riders prefer a compact crankset (50/34) paired with a wide-range cassette (11-30 or 11-34). Having a low gear is essential for maintaining a steady cadence through the steepest vertical sections of the course.
Where are the best locations for spectators to watch the race?
Spectators can enjoy prime viewing at the start-finish line in Tannersville or at the summit of the major climbs. The podium ceremonies are held in the village center shortly after the lead riders finish, offering a great atmosphere to celebrate the winners.
What are the logistics for parking and race-day check-in?
Riders should arrive early to secure parking in the designated lots near the Tannersville event hub. Check-in and timing chip pickup occur on the morning of the race - be sure to allow enough time for technical inspection and category staging before your wave start.
Reviews
Share your photos, offer tips and course insights, or inspire others to join the fun!
The first 5 cyclists to review within 72 hours after this event receive a free Starbucks or Dunkin gift card ($10 value).
Sign in to write a review
Sign In
Trooper David Brinkerhoff Memorial/Army Cycling Classic Road Race
Finger Lakes Freshet
12 Hours of Port Jervis
Trooper David Brinkerhoff Memorial Race Series - Week 2
Tour de Lewis
