Leadville Trail 100 MTB

Leadville Trail 100 MTB — The Race Across the Sky

The Leadville Trail 100 MTB is one of the most legendary endurance cycling events on earth. A 100-mile mountain bike race at 10,000+ feet elevation through the Colorado Rockies, this race has tested the limits of the world's best riders since 1994.

THE COURSE: Starting and finishing in the historic mining town of Leadville, Colorado (elevation 10,152 feet), the out-and-back course climbs to 12,620 feet at the Columbine Mine turnaround — the highest point in any major mountain bike race. Total elevation gain exceeds 12,000 feet.

Key sections include: - St. Kevins: The opening climb out of Leadville through aspen groves - Sugarloaf Pass: A paved climb before descending to Turquoise Lake - Powerline: The most feared section — a brutally steep, rocky climb/descent - Columbine Mine: The long, grinding climb to 12,620 feet with stunning views above treeline - The return trip: Reverse the course, including climbing back up Powerline

RACE FORMAT: The race has a 12-hour cutoff. Riders who finish under 9 hours earn a coveted Large Buckle; under 12 hours earns a Small Buckle. The race is self-supported between aid stations — no outside assistance allowed on course.

QUALIFICATION: Entry requires qualification through a Leadville Race Series qualifier event or through the annual lottery. The race sells out quickly and demand far exceeds available spots.

The Leadville Race Series also includes the Leadville Trail 100 Run, Leadville 100 10K, Silver Rush 50, and other events throughout the summer.