Cycling isn’t just about leisurely rides and scenic trails—sometimes, you want a little friendly competition or a personal challenge. Fortunately, there are plenty of bicycle races in the US that cater to senior riders who want to push themselves while still enjoying the sport they love.
Whether you’re looking for a casual ride with a community feel or a well-supported endurance challenge, there’s an event out there for you. Here are some of the best bicycle races for seniors that balance fun, scenery, and just the right level of challenge.
1. Tour de Palm Springs (California)
Distance Options: 10, 25, 50, or 100 miles
Best For: Beautiful desert landscapes and a great community atmosphere
Held every February, the Tour de Palm Springs is one of the most scenic and welcoming cycling events for riders of all ages, including seniors. The event offers a variety of distances, making it perfect for riders of all skill levels. The route takes cyclists through the stunning Coachella Valley, with flat terrain and some rolling hills for those who want an extra challenge. Plus, the mild winter weather makes it one of the best early-season rides.
2. Ride the Rockies (Colorado)
Distance: Multi-day event covering 300-400 miles
Best For: Experienced riders looking for a scenic mountain challenge
For those who love mountain scenery and multi-day adventures, Ride the Rockies is a bucket-list event. This week-long tour takes cyclists through some of Colorado’s most breathtaking landscapes, with well-supported rest stops and a strong sense of camaraderie. While it does involve climbing, many senior riders participate each year, pacing themselves and enjoying the breathtaking mountain passes.
3. El Tour de Tucson (Arizona)
Distance Options: 28, 57, or 102 miles
Best For: A large, well-supported event with multiple distance options
El Tour de Tucson is a premier cycling event that attracts thousands of riders each year. It features a variety of routes, making it accessible for both casual and experienced cyclists. Seniors who want a long-distance challenge can take on the 102-mile route, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can enjoy the shorter 28-mile ride. The well-paved roads, enthusiastic crowd support, and mild November weather make this an excellent race.
4. The Great Pumpkin Ride (Virginia)
Distance Options: 24, 48, or 70 miles
Best For: A relaxed, fall-themed ride with a fun atmosphere
If you love crisp autumn air, rolling countryside, and good company, the Great Pumpkin Ride is a fantastic choice. Held in Warrenton, Virginia, this ride takes cyclists through scenic backroads lined with fall foliage, charming farms, and historic towns. It’s a non-competitive, low-pressure event—perfect for senior riders who want to enjoy cycling without the intensity of a traditional race.
5. The Natchez Trace Century Ride (Mississippi)
Distance Options: 25, 50, 62, or 100 miles
Best For: Traffic-free riding on a historic, scenic route
The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most peaceful places to cycle in the US, and the Natchez Trace Century Ride allows you to experience it in a well-supported event. The route is almost completely traffic-free, with smooth roads, gentle hills, and plenty of rest stops. This is an excellent race for senior riders who want to enjoy the ride at their own pace while soaking in the history and beauty of the Mississippi landscape.
6. Bike MS: The Texas MS 150 (Texas)
Distance: 150 miles over two days
Best For: A long-distance ride with a great cause
If you’re looking for a challenge with a purpose, the Bike MS: Texas MS 150 is a fantastic option. This two-day ride from Houston to Austin is one of the largest charity cycling events in the US, raising money for multiple sclerosis research. Riders of all levels—including many seniors—take part in this well-supported event. The route is mostly flat to rolling, making it manageable with proper training.
7. The Door County Century Ride (Wisconsin)
Distance Options: 30, 50, 70, or 100 miles
Best For: Coastal scenery and a relaxed riding experience
Located in the beautiful Door County, Wisconsin, this century ride offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, charming small towns, and peaceful countryside. Riders can choose between different distances, and the ride is not a race, so you can set your own pace. It’s a fantastic option for seniors looking for a scenic, well-organized event with plenty of rest stops and local charm.
8. The Seagull Century (Maryland)
Distance Options: 63 or 100 miles
Best For: Flat, fast riding with ocean views
One of the most popular century rides on the East Coast, the Seagull Century is held in Salisbury, Maryland, and features a flat, coastal route that makes it great for riders of all experience levels. The ride offers plenty of rest stops, support, and scenic ocean views, making it one of the most enjoyable century rides for senior cyclists.
9. The California Classic Weekend (California) – ride cancelled for 2025, but check back
Distance Options: 35 or 100 miles
Best For: A mix of urban and scenic cycling
This ride takes participants through Fresno and the surrounding countryside, offering a unique experience of city and scenic riding. A highlight of the event is the opportunity to ride through a closed freeway section, adding a fun and rare twist to the route.
10. The Santa Fe Century (New Mexico)
Distance Options: 20, 50, or 100 miles
Best For: Historic landscapes and moderate climbs
This event is perfect for those who want a bit of a challenge while enjoying the historic beauty of Santa Fe. The ride includes stunning high desert scenery and sections of the famous Turquoise Trail.
11. The Tour de Tahoe (Nevada/California)
Distance: 72 miles
Best For: Stunning lake views and high-altitude cycling
Riding around Lake Tahoe is an unforgettable experience, and this event provides one of the best ways to do it. The course includes gentle hills and smooth roads, making it a great choice for experienced senior riders who love breathtaking landscapes.
12. The Covered Bridges Ride (Pennsylvania)
Distance Options: 20, 30, 50, or 100 miles
Best For: Historic charm and scenic countryside
This Pennsylvania ride takes cyclists through scenic farmland, covered bridges, and rolling hills, offering a beautiful blend of history and nature in a well-supported event.
Final Thoughts: The Right Race for You
If a race is too intimidating to start with or if you just want a casual, scenic ride, check out the best bicycle rides for 50+ riders.
With so many amazing events to choose from, there’s a perfect bicycle race for every senior rider. Which race will you tackle next?
