Gran Fondo New York
The world's most international gran fondo, from the George Washington Bridge through the Hudson Valley.
New York City, New York
Mid-May
160 km
2,600 m
~5,000 athletes
Course Highlights
- George Washington Bridge start and finish
- Palisades climbs above the Hudson River
- Bear Mountain area
- Hudson Valley countryside
- Timed competitive segments
The Course
Gran Fondo New York begins with one of the most dramatic starts in cycling: rolling across the George Washington Bridge at dawn, with the Manhattan skyline illuminated behind you. The course immediately heads north along the Palisades, climbing the steep roads above the Hudson River with sweeping views of the valley below.
The route continues through the rolling terrain of Rockland and Bergen counties, featuring several categorized climbs including the challenging Bear Mountain area. The roads wind through forested hills, past reservoirs, and through quaint Hudson Valley towns. The middle miles feature the toughest climbing, with the total elevation gain exceeding 8,500 feet over the 100-mile course.
The return journey brings riders back along the Palisades and across the George Washington Bridge to the finish. The timed segments throughout the course add a competitive element for those who want it, while the well-stocked aid stations and beautiful scenery make it enjoyable for those riding for the experience.
History
Gran Fondo New York was first held in 2011, inspired by the Italian gran fondo tradition of mass-participation timed cycling events. It quickly became the largest and most international gran fondo in the United States, attracting riders from over 90 countries.
The event has spawned a global series of GFNY-branded events, but the New York flagship remains the crown jewel. It has become a bucket-list ride for cycling enthusiasts worldwide.
How to Train for GFNY
Build climbing endurance
With over 8,500 feet of climbing, you need strong climbing legs and the endurance to sustain effort over 100 miles. Include weekly rides with significant climbing and practice eating on the bike during hard efforts.
Practice group riding
With thousands of riders on the road, you will be in close proximity to others for much of the course. Practice riding in pace lines, holding a steady line, and communicating with nearby riders for safety.
Pace yourself early
The excitement of the George Washington Bridge start and the early Palisades climbs can lead to going out too hard. Save energy for the middle-course climbs where the hardest terrain awaits. A smart first 30 miles enables a strong finish.
Free training plans
Indoor FTP builder
How to increase your FTP in 8 weeks: a free indoor cycling plan with five rides a week of sweet-spot, threshold, VO2 max and Zone 2 work, and an FTP test at each end to measure the gain.
8 weeksCentury ride
A free 12-week plan to ride 100 miles: five rides a week with a long Saturday ride that builds from 2 hours to 5h 30m, recovery weeks and a two-week taper.
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