Desert chaos meets spring perfection

The Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona 2026 delivers an unforgettable gravel cycling adventure in Cave Creek at the edge of Phoenix. Launching the prestigious Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel series, this event challenges both elite and amateur riders with brutal mileage, unrelenting climbs, and rapid terrain changes— from technical gravel and single track, to washes and steep, punishing paved grades. Three course distances (Waffle, Wafer, Wanna) serve everyone from seasoned veterans to ambitious newcomers, all set against a backdrop of blooming Sonoran Desert and just steps from the iconic McDowell Mountains. With multiple competition segments, six robust feed zones, prize purses, and over 300 days of sunshine, it’s a Southwest spring cycling festival like no other.

Three course options: Waffle (122 miles, ~7,500 feet climbing, 58% unroad), Wafer (68.3 miles, ~4,000 feet climbing, 53% unroad), Wanna (33.4 miles, ~3,500 feet climbing, 25% unroad). Diverse terrain blends technical gravel, single-track, tarmac, sandy washes, and steep paved grades (up to 20%). Event takes place in the Sonoran Desert foothills near Phoenix with McDowell Mountains as a backdrop.

• Three course options for all experience levels
• Epic 122-mile main course with 7,500+ feet climbing
• Six well-stocked feed zones on the Waffle course
• Final paved climb sections with challenging 20% grades
• Multiple timed segments (KOM/QOM, Dirt, Sprint)
• Prize purse for elite men and women racers
• Stunning Sonoran Desert and McDowell Mountain scenery
• Kickoff for Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel—championship points and cash
• Over 300 days of sunshine—ideal for spring riding