Medio Route

The Gran Fondo Badlands ride begins at the Largest (blue) Dinosaur in the World. There should be little, if any, traffic. The roads are in great shape with smooth pavement all the way around the course. Heading along the North Dinosaur Trail right past the Royal Tyrrell Museum to the 100 year old Bleriot ferry, approximately 25 km. Stop at the aid station for refreshments, take in the scenery, enjoy the ferry ride across the Red Deer river (takes about 2 minutes!) pedal up the short but serious hill (12% – make sure you are in your small gear!), then back to town along the South Dinosaur Trail. This is approximately 50 km.

Once back in town continue south on Highway 10. Around 10 km later you will turn right onto Highway 10X and into the historic town of Wayne, crossing a world record number of bridges (11) in the shortest distance (10 km). After visiting the Wayne Hotel Baconsaurus station, return to Highway 10, turn left back to Drumheller for 75km total ride. Turn right and ride along the river and past hoodoos following the signs for the turnaround at 100km or 140km total ride.

There are no designated lanes to cyclist as the roads are open to traffic at all times. All cyclists will ride to the far right of the road – on the shoulder – alongside traffic.

The road surface is pavement with the exception of a number of wooden bridges on the out and back to Wayne.

Click here for elevation profile >

King and Queen of the Mountain (140km + 160km only)

Times will be combined on two hills to determine the KOM/QOM so watch for the signs. Those riding 140/162 km are eligible for prizes (top 3 KOM/QOM combined times) but everyone will get the first hill climb time recorded.

 First climb – right out of the Ferry on the return trip to Drum. This climb is a slap in the face – you will see short bits of 12% grade. The climb is 1.2 km long.

 Second climb – after Aid Station 4/5 from Dorothy, 2 km gradual climb, approximately 7 to 9% grade.