Gran Fondo 2023 - photo by Carson KlempSILVER CITY, NM – The 2024 Gila Monster Gran Fondo presented by Hidalgo Medical Services is set for Saturday, October 12, in Silver City. With three ride distances, this annual event is when recreational cyclists can sample the challenge the Tour of the Gila stage race offers.

"The Gila Monster Gran Fondo brings the cycling community together and showcases the Gila Wilderness, which turns 100 this year," says board member and race director Jack Brennan. "In October, the weather tends to be comfortable, and the landscape looks especially beautiful."

Designed to be fun for recreational and competitive cyclists, the 30-, 60-, and 80-mile rides each follow New Mexico Highway 15, the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway, and finish at the Buckhorn Saloon & Opera House in Pinos Altos for the Post-Ride Party.

The 80-mile Gran Fondo sponsored by Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate delivers 10,696 feet of climbing along the out-and-back route from Silver City to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Visitor Center.

The 60-mile Medio Fondo sponsored by Gila Hike & Bike climbs 6,966 feet and includes five rest stops. Starting in Silver City, this ride turns around at the Clinton P. Anderson Overlook.

The 30-mile Nano Fondo sponsored by First Endurance starts in Pinos Altos, climbing 2,870 feet to the rest stop at Wild Horse Mesa and back.

Sponsored by State Farm-Jon Saari, Copies on the Run, Morning Star, Silver City Daily Press, and J & J Signs, rest stops include drinking water, energy drinks and foods, and toilet facilities, as well as extra tubes and inflation. Sag wagons will offer water, tubes and inflation.

The locally owned Murray Hotel and Copper Manor Motel both offer special deals to Gila Monster Gran Fondo participants. For 20% off at the Murray Hotel, guests may call 575-956-9400 and press 2 to talk with the front desk. For a 15% discount off rooms at the Copper Manor Motel, guests may call 575-538-5392 and leave a message if no immediate answer.

Open on BikeReg now, Gila Monster Gran Fondo registration costs $100. After September 27, entry rises to $110. Volunteers for the 2024 Tour of the Gila receive 40% off. Call Jack Brennan at 575-590-2612 for the coupon code. Late registration will be available at Gila Hike & Bike at 8 a.m. on Saturday, October 12. For more info, visit tourofthegila.com.

Held under a USA Cycling Permit, the Gila Monster Gran Fondo also operates under a special use permit with the Gila National Forest. Additional sponsors of the Gila Monster Gran Fondo include the Town of Silver City, Buckhorn Saloon & Opera House, Grant County Search and Rescue, Gila Amateur Radio Society, and the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division.