Giro di San Diego

106 miles with 9,800 feet of climbing
Giro di San Diego • Route Profile
Route Profile

Giro di San Diego • Climbs

Cat. 1: Mile 40
Cat. 3: Mile 12, 27, and 68
Cat. 4: Mile 9 and 90

Giro di San Diego • Description

The Giro di San Diego is a scenic gran fondo with solid climbing, leading from Solana Beach to the top of Palomar Mountain and back.
After passing San Elijo Lagoon, the route follows Manchester Avenue, Rancho Santa Fe Road, and San Elijo Road over the hill into San Marcos. El Norte Parkway eventually leads into Escondido, and Lake Wohlford Road climbs out of Escondido. Valley Center Road continues down Rincon Grade passing the casino.
Pauma Valley marks the start of the big climb. The first five miles are on Highway 76 and the second seven miles on South Grade Road (photos, photos). The top of Palomar Mountain is the farthest and highest point of the ride.
The route back is different. After an amazing descend, it follows Highway 76 to Cole Grade Road, a short but steep climb.
Then Valley Center Road leads into Valley Center and down to Escondido. Bear Valley Parkway and Via Rancho Parkway continue on towards Lake Hodges. Del Dios Highway leads into Rancho Santa Fe, and Linea del Cielo, Camino de las Villas, and Lomas Santa Fe Drive back into Solana Beach.
Event Website: Giro di San Diego

Giro di San Diego • Interactive Map

Giro di San Diego • Pictures

Giro di San Diego • South Grade Road
South Grade Road
Giro di San Diego • Afternoon Thunderstorm
Afternoon Thunderstorm
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See Also: Gran Fondos & Centuries