Route and Starting Location
Route Description
Click on the map to see a larger version. Full-size black and white maps will be included in your registration packet.
Click on the profile to see a larger version.
Many changes have been made to the Tierra Bella routes this year! A selection of four routes have been chosen for the Tierra Bella this year. There is no longer a route called “100 K”, but instead we have 33, 55, 77, and 100 miles to choose from. Each route doubles the amount of climbing of the one before it: 843, 1,680, 3,383 and 6,803 feet. We have something for every rider.
33 miles with 843 feet of climbing
If you have not ridden much over the winter, we recommend this flat route through Gilroy and a big loop out to San Martin and then over to Chictactac-Adams County Park. There are lots of new roads and scenery to experience on this shorter route. Follow the yellow arrows.
55 miles with 1,680 feet of climbing
This route starts with a loop out to San Martin, then continues north to Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve at the halfway point. Heading south you climb up Willow Springs Rd, past both Chesbro and Uvas reservoirs to Chictactac-Adams County Park. Follow the green arrows.
77 miles with 3,383 feet of climbing
This route starts off with the traditional climb up to Gilroy Hot Springs followed by a descent of Canada Rd. Then you loop out to San Martin, before continuing north to Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve. Heading south you climb up Willow Springs Rd, past both Chesbro and Uvas reservoirs to Chictactac-Adams County Park. Follow the blue arrows.
100 miles with 6,803 feet of climbing
This century ride contains all of the options from the routes. First you climb up to Gilroy Hot Springs and descend Canada Rd. Then you go over past San Martin before starting the challenging climb up to Henry Coe. You next head north to Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve at mile 70. Heading south, you climb up Willow Springs Rd, past both Chesbro and Uvas reservoirs to get to Chictactac-Adams County Park. Follow the orange arrows.
We use “Ride With GPS” mileage and climbing totals. We will provide RideWithGPS downloadable routes to registered riders as the date approaches. These routes may be used off-line with the RideWithGPS smartphone apps and other GPS units.
Starting Location
All rides start at Gavilan College's main campus, 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd., Gilroy, CA, about 35 miles south of San Jose. If you are heading south on Highway 101 from Gilroy, turn right on Castro Valley Rd. and right on Santa Teresa Blvd. to the north entrance of Gavilan College. Look for a sign to Gavilan on Hwy. 101 just south of the Monterey Rd.exit.
If you are approaching Gilroy from the south, you will not be able to turn left from northbound 101 onto Castro Valley Rd. due to the median barrier. Continue north to the Monterey Rd. exit where you can loop under 101 and head back south to Castro Valley Rd.
Please double-check your GPS directions! Gavilan College recently added a second campus on Bailey Road. Tierra Bella starts at the Gilroy campus.
Starting Times
There is no need to physically check in. If you have NOT received a registration packet in the mail, please come to the Help Desk in the Student Union/Cafeteria and we will assist you.
Please plan to start your ride according to the following schedule:
| 100 Mile, all options | 7:00 to 8:00 AM |
| 77 Mile / Gilroy Hot Springs | 7:30 to 8:30 AM |
| 55 Mile / Coyote Valley | 8:00 to 9:00 AM |
| 33 Mile / Short route | 9:00 to 10:00 AM |
The course closes at 5:00 PM. Riders must start and finish during this interval. Rest stop cut-off times listed on the route sheet will be strictly observed.
We have support from volunteer mechanics and local bicycle shops (details subject to change).
Parking & Accommodations
Parking at Gavilan College is limited and free. The college will enforce all parking restrictions and may issue citations. Please rely on our friendly, helpful parking staff (in orange safety vests) to direct you.
There is no overnight parking or camping at Gavilan College. The Gavilan gates will open at 6:30 AM. Due to Gavilan regulations, camping vehicles, cars with trailers, or any vehicle not able to fit in a regular parking space will be directed to off-road parking near, but not on the Gavilan campus. For a list of local motels and campgrounds, please see FAQs for links to lodging facilities.
When you return from the ride, pre-purchased lunch will be served at Gavilan College.