The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic: Durango's Legendary Race
Every Memorial Day weekend, cyclists race the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad from Durango to Silverton. Bikes versus a steam-powered train. 47 miles. 5,700 feet of climbing. It's been running since 1972.
The Race
The main event goes from Durango to Silverton over Coal Bank Pass and Molas Pass — two of the biggest climbs on US-550. Pros finish in about two hours. Most mortals take three to four. The train takes about three and a half, so the race is genuinely competitive for strong riders.
But the Iron Horse isn't just for elites. There are citizens' tours, kids' races, mountain bike events, and a gravel ride. The whole weekend turns Durango into a cycling festival.
The Weekend Vibe
Memorial Day weekend in Durango is electric during Iron Horse. Downtown is packed, restaurants are full, and there's a festival atmosphere with live music, vendor booths, and post-race celebrations.
It also marks the unofficial start of summer. Trails are opening, the river is running, and the days are long and warm.
Watching the Race
You don't have to ride to enjoy it. The best spectating spots are at the top of Coal Bank Pass and Molas Pass, where riders grind up switchbacks with the San Juan Mountains as backdrop. The Silverton finish line is also a great scene.
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