The wait is over — June 7th, 2025 marks the inaugural Gran Fondo Utah, and it's arriving with a bang. More than just another fondo, this event debuts with a course that blends natural grandeur with legendary road cycling history. Riders in this first-ever edition will tackle one of the most scenic and challenging climbs in the West: the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway, a true crown jewel of Utah cycling.
Ride the Nebo Loop — Utah’s Hidden High-Alpine Gem
Tucked into the southern end of the Wasatch Range, the Nebo Loop offers riders a truly unforgettable experience. This 38-mile stretch of winding pavement climbs above 9,000 feet and weaves through alpine meadows, dense aspen and fir forests, and dramatic limestone, granite and quartzite rock formations.. The views are nothing short of spectacular — from sweeping panoramas of Utah Valley and Mount Nebo, the tallest peak in the Wasatch, to vivid bursts of wildflowers and fall foliage depending on the season.
But make no mistake — this isn’t just a scenic detour. With gradients that regularly hit 8–10%, technical descents, and ever-thinning mountain air, the Nebo Loop demands respect. It’s a test of fitness and focus that rewards those who rise to the challenge with a sense of triumph — and a front-row seat to some of Utah’s most pristine backcountry.
Following in the Tire Tracks of Legends: A Tribute to the Original Tour of Utah
Another exciting feature of the 2025 route is its connection to the Tour of Utah. Before the Tour of Utah became an international powerhouse stage race (known as America’s Toughest Stage Race), it began with humble, but ambitious, routes through Utah’s rugged terrain — including portions of the very roads riders will conquer in this year’s Gran Fondo. The Tour of Utah’s four visits to Payson layer history and mythicism to an already memorable course. It’s a chance to pedal the same roads that launched the careers of many notable professional riders, like Sepp Kuss.
Part of the SUAREZ Gran Fondo National Series
The 2025 Gran Fondo Utah is proud to be part of the SUAREZ Gran Fondo National Series, America's original gran fondo series established in 2012. This series features challenging courses and timed segment competitions, offering riders of all ability levels the opportunity to compete in a unique format. Participation in the Gran Fondo Utah allows riders to earn points towards their placing in the overall series. There are three GFNS and GFNS partner events in 2025 that allow riders in the Rocky Mountain’s and other western states to gather points and be competitive with riders based on the east coast without having to travel extensively. Participants in these events also qualify for the USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championship, scheduled for September 14, 2025, in Frederick, Maryland.
A New Tradition Begins
As the first-ever Gran Fondo Utah, this event kicks off what promises to be an annual celebration of endurance, community, and the unique beauty of Utah’s landscapes. From the steep switchbacks of Nebo to the history-soaked pavement of the Tour of Utah, this course is designed to inspire and challenge in equal measure.
Ready to Ride?
Don't miss your chance to be part of cycling history. Register now for the inaugural Gran Fondo Utah on June 7th, 2025 and experience the thrill of the Nebo Loop, the legacy of the Tour of Utah, and the camaraderie of the SUAREZ Gran Fondo National Series.