2025 BWR Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel Series

Mt Diablo Challenge

October 05 2025
Danville CA
Unconfirmed
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Distances: 11.2 miles, 3,249 feet
Difficulty: Moderate terrain with rolling short steep hills or moderate, sustained climbs

The 11.2-mile, individually timed ride climbs 3,249 feet to the summit of Mt. Diablo starting up South Gate Road. Mt. Diablo is one of the highest peaks in the San Francisco Bay Area, with views of the Farallon Islands and the Sierras. 

Mount Diablo State Park is closed to traffic for this event and the first waves can ascend without any descending bike traffic. It is a once-a-year opportunity to enjoy riding the mountain without cars!

The event attracts well over 1,000 participanys ranging in age from 6 to 87, of whom 838 finished the ascent to the summit of the mountain last year. The event was supported by 9 sponsors, 20 vendors, and 150 volunteers. 

The Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Club (VSBC) began this ride 41 years ago to honor Joan Walt and two years ago in honor Joe Shami. We continue to hold this iconic event in their honor. Once again, the State Park has agreed to a fast turn-around at the summit which allows participants to return to an awards ceremony, vendor expo, music, and a great barbeque. 

The ride welcomes all ages, abilities, teams, and bicycle types.  It will be a once-a-year opportunity to enjoy riding the mountain without cars.  Everyone celebrates after the ride with free BBQ, prizes, awards, and live music.  Come participate in this epic ride that provides breathtaking scenery and test your climbing ability. 

At the top, there will be food and drink before you descend and ride over to Monte Vista High School and Oak Hill Park to join the post-ride festivities.  There you can cheer and perhaps join winners in 16 age categories, including King and Queen of the Mountain, and enjoy a great BBQ, beverages, vendors, and music for a grand celebration! 

Entry includes a t-shirt, BBQ meal, and one beer.

The Mt. Diablo Challenge started as a fundraising ride dedicated to Joan Walt, who passed away at a young 26 years old of myocarditis. She had completed her annual physical just the week before with flying colors. Joan trained on Mt. Diablo two to three times a week. Her devastated mother asked if Valley Spokesmen could put on a ride up the mountain in Joan’s memory, and the Mount Diablo Challenge was born. 

The 42nd Mount Diablo Challenge continues to benefit Save Mount Diablo through donations made by event participants during registration and a generous sponsorship from the Nathan M. Ohrbach Foundation.

Save Mount Diablo Challenge

 
Start Located At: Danville, CA
 
 
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