Outside is Free

Mount Diablo is a gem of the East Bay. Also known as “devil’s mountain,” it has a proven reputation worldwide for its persistent ascent and pitched summit climax. There are only a handful of enjoyable roads with uninterrupted climbing and Mt. Diablo ranks at the top. You have the sweeping vistas all to yourself. North gate and South gate routes meet at the junction and provide diversity of terrain.

The summit finish is exhilarating and a pinnacle of achievement to all cyclists, young and old, enthusiast and pro. More often than not, you will find local clubs and elite riders practicing and training on the mountain.

I’ve seen locals in flip flops and tank tops on old heavy bikes, giving El Diablo a try, feeling alive and sweating through their pores. This proves that although difficult, Mount Diablo is approachable to riders of all levels. To point, I’ve ridden to the summit on a single speed mountain bike and even a fixed gear track bike.

I only began riding a bicycle enthusiastically in 2009 when I made a lifestyle commitment and sold my car. It was the best 3,000 lbs I ever lost. It took three decades to find Mt. Diablo. Even though Mount Diablo is the backdrop of nearly every vista in Concord, it never occurred to me that riding up and down the mountain was possible. Fortunately, local cycling friends showed me the way. Ever since finding Mount Diablo, I visit weekly to catch up on lost time.

My motto is “Ride Every Day.” It is fulfilling to engage with the increasing support for and growing community of cyclists. Supporting the Mount Diablo Challenge is a local and sure-fire way to ensure this sustainable and healthy trend continues for all.

Reasons to ride Mount Diablo Challenge:

- The mountain is car-free!
- 1,000 cyclists riding for the ultimate climbing bike party!
- Choose between the 11.2 miles and 3, 249 ft. summit ride or junction ride at about half the elevation gain for sweat, exhilaration and an unforgettable experience!

- All human powered bicycles are allowed including unicycles and tandems.
- Proceeds benefit Mount Diablo conservation so cyclists continue to enjoy the mountain.

-Wilson Tai