Biking Events in Sonoma County

Whether you like cycling through flat wetlands with wildlife, the shaded majesty of a redwood forest, or undulant vineyards and farms, the scenery of Sonoma County creates the perfect setting for a good ride.

Here’s a quick look at a few annual events in Sonoma Wine Country that attract cyclists from around the globe. (For more information, check our events page as details are shared.)

Levi’s GrandFondo, Windsor

Typically in April each year, this popular event offers both casual and competitive level rides with unique start and finish locations. Racing is entirely optional, and plenty come to have fun.

• Family Route (10.7 miles) This introductory ride is great for beginner road cyclists. 
• Piccolo (38.6 Miles): Cruise past vineyards and over gently rolling hills. 
• Medio (61.2 Miles): This quintessential Sonoma County weekend ride has two aid stations evenly spaced.
• Geysers (79.1 Miles): Some serious climbs in this route accumulate over 6,000′ of elevation. 
• Gran (119.9 Miles): Includes the signature King Ridge Road winding high above the hills. 
• The Growler (137.5 Miles): This ride includes a substantial cash purse for the top 5 men and women finishers.

Sonoma County Backroad Challenge, Penngrove

In June, beginner to experienced road cyclists can ride one of four routes, which all begin at the Penngrove Market and wind through the town, past or over the hills, and by the Tomales Bay shoreline.

• Half Metric (36.52 miles): Mostly flat with the nicest roads for enjoying scenic views of pasture land. 
• Training Ride (46 miles): With rolling hills, this route is great training for the full Metric.
• Metric Century (65.74 miles): An intermediate ride perfect for experienced riders.
• Century Ride (99.54 miles): An endurance challenge with some of the best views for riders in excellent condition.

Giro Bello, Sebastopol

In summer (June or July), these scenic rides benefit local charities. The two longer rides include a lunch stop, and all rides start and end in Sebastopol with a post-ride meal and music.

• 50K (32 miles): This is a good route for families, but there are a few hills. Total elevation gain is 992 feet.
• Metric Century (66.8 miles): An intermediate ride offering a great workout through Sonoma Wine Country.
• Century (100.9 miles): A challenge for riders in great condition with experience in elevation changes.

Tour de Fuzz, Santa Rosa

In August, choose one of these scenic rides and help benefit the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy of Sonoma County, a non-political organization assisting victims, families, and first responders. Three challenging rides each start in a different place and finish in Santa Rosa with exhibits.

• Enthusiast (32 miles): Starts near Healdsburg and loops near Forestville.
• Roadie (62 miles): Starts in Geyserville and loops through Healdsburg and Windsor.
• Commando (100 miles): Includes a very steep hill — not for the first-time century rider!

More Cycling Fun

Sonoma County has so many wonderful bike trails for families and experienced cyclists alike. Here you can cruise meandering backroads through ranchland, vineyards, and along old railroad routes while you take in scenic hillsides dotted with oaks, wildlife-filled wetlands, redwoods, and coastline. Plus, you’ll find world-famous wineries and acclaimed restaurants.

Come for a biking event or enjoy the excellent local trails any time of year by checking out this Guide to Cycling in Sonoma County, and get the free Digital Visitor Guide.

Together, we can protect and preserve the beauty and natural resources of Sonoma County for generations to come. Check out our page on Sustainable Travel, and look over the Leave No Trace Seven Principles.