A few spots left in the sell-out recreational ride on a worldclass racecourse
Silver City, NM — The organizers of the Tour of the Gila bicycle stage race, along with record-setting ultra-endurance athlete Lael Wilcox, are welcoming recreational cyclists to southwest New Mexico for a fun and timed road ride on Saturday, October 10th.
The 2026 Lael Wilcox Gila Monster Gran Fondo presented by Hidalgo Medical Services is a chance for non-competitive athletes to enjoy iconic and scenic racecourses. The event ensures participants are supported in the challenge with well-stocked aid stations, support vehicles carrying inflation and hydration supplies. The day is capped with a post-ride party with friends made along the way.
Cyclists wanting a memorable day on their bikes can experience:
Three Classic Routes: Choose from three distances, all out-and-back on New Mexico 15, the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway. The 80-mile course goes from downtown Silver City to the Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center then finishes in Pinos Altos, while the 60-mile route takes you to another vista but leaves out 2,500 feet of climbing. The 30-mile course begins and ends in Pinos Altos and turns around at the breathtaking Wildhorse Mesa. Each is offered thanks to ride sponsors Copies on the Run, Gila Hike & Bike, and Morning Star Sports!
Top-Tier Support: Event sponsors and volunteers ensure plenty of fuel and hydration options at multiple aid stations, on-course mechanical support, and SAG vehicles.
After-Ride Party: Cold drinks, charcuterie, and music to celebrate the achievement.
Registration costs $110 and is open online at bikereg.com/gila-monster-gran-fondo through Thursday, October 8, at 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time. In-person registration is available at Gila Hike & Bike (103 E. College Ave.) on Friday, October 9, from 3 to 7 p.m.
The locally owned Murray Hotel and Copper Manor Motel offer special deals to ride participants. For a 20% discount at the Murray Hotel from Thursday, October 8, through Sunday, October 11, guests may call 575-956-9400 and press option 2 to talk with the front desk. For a 15% discount off rooms at the Copper Manor Motel over the same time period, guests may call 575-538-5392.
The 2026 Lael Wilcox Gila Monster Gran Fondo presented by HMS is sponsored under a special use permit with the Gila National Forest and held under USA Cycling Permit.
