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February 28, 2025 - March 1, 2025
Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona 2025
Cave Creek, AZ, USA · Monuments of Cycling
35 mi75 mi103 mi
About this event
2025 Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona
February 28 - March 1, 2025
Welkom to the first stop of the Belgian Waffle Ride Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel…
The Third Annual Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona is something we cannot wait to share with you. It’ll be a unique experience, one known as the Hell of the North Desert. This will be the first of four BWRs that comprise the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, with BWR CA, BWR UT and the new addition, BWR Montana in Bozeman, respectively.
Here is a snapshot of information about the event and what to expect…
There is a formula to the creation of each new Belgian Waffle Ride, and this year’s first BWR and the kick-off to the largest gravel series in the world, the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, is the newest manifestation of this formula. The BWR AZ, which will take place in Cave Creek, Arizona, on the fringes of the Valley of the Sun, embodies the three ingredients that make the BWR so special. 1) A dream destination, 2) varied terrain to accommodate an extremely dynamic racecourse, and 3) a cycling community that is both vibrant and desirous of the Unroad experience only the BWR can offer.
1) Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, on the fringes of North Scottsdale, the BWR AZ will start and finish at Stagecoach Village in Cave Creek and take in a seamless connection of beautiful desert and varied challenging terrain with breathtaking views and near-perfect riding conditions. The area enjoys over 300 days of sunshine and incredible scenery, with conditions that are perfect for exhilarating Unroad riding, including crushing climbs to beautiful views of the surrounding desert. The destination is a picture-perfect town in the desert foothills that brings together history, culture, and nature in a unique atmosphere. The downtown area has plenty to offer the entire family, and the city is surrounded by many other destinations that you don't want to miss out on.
2) The topography, transitioning from the verdant riparian environment along the Salt River to the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, will offer towering saguaro cactus standing sentry against a backdrop of made-to-order sunsets. The springtime temperatures will nurture an array of stunning wildflowers among an ocean of vibrant green cacti and remain mild enough for riders to enjoy the full day of riding. The BWR AZ will bring along technical Unroads punctuated by pristine tarmac in the outskirts of Scottsdale. The course in and around Cave Creek will boast a fantastic concoction of terrible terrain, including pitchy undulations in Carefree, Tonto Forest mountains & washes, Rio Verde, sinuous single-track in McDowell Mountain Regional Park & its Sonoran Preserve, and smooth roads connecting gravel sectors completely unique to this desert playground. The dynamic nature of the course, which at roughly 122-miles is less than the usual BWR, will surely devastate even the most well-trained professional gravelleurs by its finale – a series of steep, paved climbs with pitches of 20%. How do you say, “Ouchie,” in Flemish. Oh yeah, it’s AUW! Kind of like, WTF!
3) And then there is the third and final ingredient – a vibrant cycling community. Not only has the area been designated one of only 35 gold-level bicycle-friendly communities in the US, with its safe accommodations, miles of designated bike lanes, and, of course, a plethora of trails to explore – both urban and desert – it has an extensive network of cycling teams, enthusiasts, and every type of bike shop to support them. This Sonoran Desert locale is the most diverse desert in the world, offering amazing views along the rocky mountain ranges that surround it. No wonder this destination has become home to such an active and enthusiastic bike community.
February 28 - March 1, 2025
Welkom to the first stop of the Belgian Waffle Ride Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel…
The Third Annual Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona is something we cannot wait to share with you. It’ll be a unique experience, one known as the Hell of the North Desert. This will be the first of four BWRs that comprise the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, with BWR CA, BWR UT and the new addition, BWR Montana in Bozeman, respectively.
Here is a snapshot of information about the event and what to expect…
There is a formula to the creation of each new Belgian Waffle Ride, and this year’s first BWR and the kick-off to the largest gravel series in the world, the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, is the newest manifestation of this formula. The BWR AZ, which will take place in Cave Creek, Arizona, on the fringes of the Valley of the Sun, embodies the three ingredients that make the BWR so special. 1) A dream destination, 2) varied terrain to accommodate an extremely dynamic racecourse, and 3) a cycling community that is both vibrant and desirous of the Unroad experience only the BWR can offer.
1) Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, on the fringes of North Scottsdale, the BWR AZ will start and finish at Stagecoach Village in Cave Creek and take in a seamless connection of beautiful desert and varied challenging terrain with breathtaking views and near-perfect riding conditions. The area enjoys over 300 days of sunshine and incredible scenery, with conditions that are perfect for exhilarating Unroad riding, including crushing climbs to beautiful views of the surrounding desert. The destination is a picture-perfect town in the desert foothills that brings together history, culture, and nature in a unique atmosphere. The downtown area has plenty to offer the entire family, and the city is surrounded by many other destinations that you don't want to miss out on.
2) The topography, transitioning from the verdant riparian environment along the Salt River to the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, will offer towering saguaro cactus standing sentry against a backdrop of made-to-order sunsets. The springtime temperatures will nurture an array of stunning wildflowers among an ocean of vibrant green cacti and remain mild enough for riders to enjoy the full day of riding. The BWR AZ will bring along technical Unroads punctuated by pristine tarmac in the outskirts of Scottsdale. The course in and around Cave Creek will boast a fantastic concoction of terrible terrain, including pitchy undulations in Carefree, Tonto Forest mountains & washes, Rio Verde, sinuous single-track in McDowell Mountain Regional Park & its Sonoran Preserve, and smooth roads connecting gravel sectors completely unique to this desert playground. The dynamic nature of the course, which at roughly 122-miles is less than the usual BWR, will surely devastate even the most well-trained professional gravelleurs by its finale – a series of steep, paved climbs with pitches of 20%. How do you say, “Ouchie,” in Flemish. Oh yeah, it’s AUW! Kind of like, WTF!
3) And then there is the third and final ingredient – a vibrant cycling community. Not only has the area been designated one of only 35 gold-level bicycle-friendly communities in the US, with its safe accommodations, miles of designated bike lanes, and, of course, a plethora of trails to explore – both urban and desert – it has an extensive network of cycling teams, enthusiasts, and every type of bike shop to support them. This Sonoran Desert locale is the most diverse desert in the world, offering amazing views along the rocky mountain ranges that surround it. No wonder this destination has become home to such an active and enthusiastic bike community.
Photos
Routes
Wanna (Short route 30-40 miles)
35 mi · ↗ 3,500 ft · 70% gravel · $115 entry
For those who want to ride but aren’t quite ready to suffer
18 and under is $65
The Wanna route is the perfect balance of challenge and fun, offering a little bit of everything to keep you on your toes.
The Wanna route is the perfect balance of challenge and fun, offering a little bit of everything to keep you on your toes.
- Distance: 35ish miles of desert adventure that’ll push you, but not break you—just enough to leave you feeling proud at the finish.
- Terrain: A mix of smooth roads and rugged gravel that will keep things interesting, with stunning views to make you forget about the effort (almost).
- Climbing: The climbs are tough enough to get your heart racing, but they’ll reward you with some of the best views in the desert. It’s all about finding your rhythm and conquering each one with a smile.
- Experience: You’ll finish with a sense of accomplishment, knowing you’ve tackled a challenging course without the full intensity of the longer routes. It’s the perfect way to test your limits, without overdoing it!
Wafer (Medium distance 70-80 miles)
75 mi · ↗ 6,000 ft · 70% gravel · $215 entry
The Sweet Spot of Adventure: Challenging, Scenic, and Full of Surprises
18 and under is $65
The Wafer route of the Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona is a thrilling, slightly shorter challenge that still packs a punch for those seeking adventure, without the full 122-mile intensity of the Waffle route. At 70-80 miles, this medium-distance option offers a dynamic mix of gravel, singletrack, and paved sections, all set in the stunning backdrop of the Sonoran Desert.
The Wafer route of the Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona is a thrilling, slightly shorter challenge that still packs a punch for those seeking adventure, without the full 122-mile intensity of the Waffle route. At 70-80 miles, this medium-distance option offers a dynamic mix of gravel, singletrack, and paved sections, all set in the stunning backdrop of the Sonoran Desert.
- Distance: A manageable 70-80 miles of rugged terrain, perfect for those who want to push themselves but aren’t quite ready for the full Waffle experience.
- Terrain: A well-balanced course that blends technical gravel roads, smooth paved climbs, and scenic singletrack, offering a real taste of the diverse terrain that makes the BWR AZ so special.
- Climbs: Expect challenging ascents with sections that will test your strength and endurance, but nothing quite as brutal as the full Waffle route's extreme climbs. Still, there are some steep pitches and a few surprises along the way.
- Scenery: You’ll be riding through some of the most picturesque landscapes Arizona has to offer—towering saguaro cacti, sunset views, and a variety of desert landscapes that will make you feel like you're in a postcard.
- Challenge: The Wafer route offers a perfect balance of fun and difficulty—you’ll still be pushed to your limits, but you won’t be as completely drained as you might be after the Waffle. It's a race for those looking for an exciting test of their skills and fitness, but with a little less of the brutal fatigue.
- Community: Like the full Waffle route, the Wafer route brings riders together to celebrate the adventurous spirit of cycling, sharing the experience of conquering tough terrain with a community of passionate cyclists.
Waffle (Long Route 100ish miles)
103 mi · ↗ 10,000 ft · 70% gravel · $215 entry
A brutal and beautiful ride through the desert's toughest terrain, where grit meets glory!
18 and under is $65
A dynamic and challenging mix of terrain, offering an exhilarating experience that captures the essence of the BWR formula. Here’s a breakdown:
A dynamic and challenging mix of terrain, offering an exhilarating experience that captures the essence of the BWR formula. Here’s a breakdown:
- Location: The event starts and finishes at Stagecoach Village in Cave Creek, Arizona, nestled in the Sonoran Desert, near Scottsdale.
- Scenic & Varied Terrain: The course offers a blend of desert beauty with breathtaking views and diverse topography, including gravel roads, technical "Unroad" terrain, and smooth tarmac sections. Riders will experience crushing climbs, winding roads, and wide open desert vistas.
- Challenge: The course spans approximately 122 miles, shorter than other BWR events, but still offering a fierce challenge, with terrain transitions from verdant riparian areas near the Salt River to the foothills of the McDowell Mountains. The course features pitchy undulations in areas like Carefree, Tonto Forest mountains & washes, and steep climbs with 20% gradients towards the end.
- Singletrack Sections: Riders will face sections of technical singletrack through McDowell Mountain Regional Park and the Sonoran Preserve. These provide a thrilling challenge, with fast and twisty paths through stunning desert landscapes.
- Rider Experience: The varied nature of the course—gravel, dirt, paved roads, mountain trails—ensures that riders will encounter a mix of everything, making for an unpredictable and exciting ride that pushes both endurance and skill to the limit.
Registration
- Opens
- December 1, 2024
- Deadline
- February 28, 2025
- On-site registration
- No
Volunteer info
Volunteer for the Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona
Be a Legend—Help Make the Madness Happen!
Calling all cycling fans, desert dreamers, and waffle lovers! The Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona (BWR AZ) needs YOU to help pull off the most epic, unroad cycling event of the year. This isn’t just volunteering—it’s joining a crew of rebels and adventurers who bring the BWR magic to life.
Volunteer Roles:
Visit our BikeReg Volunteer Page to pick your role and time slot. We’ll send you all the info you need to be part of the magic.
Why Volunteer?
The BWR Arizona isn’t just a race; it’s a full-throttle celebration of grit, camaraderie, and the wild unroad spirit. Volunteering puts you at the heart of the action, where legends are made, and every moment counts.
Grab your energy, bring your best vibes, and join the party that’s redefining cycling events. We can’t do it without YOU!
Sign up now and be part of something unforgettable!
Be a Legend—Help Make the Madness Happen!
Calling all cycling fans, desert dreamers, and waffle lovers! The Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona (BWR AZ) needs YOU to help pull off the most epic, unroad cycling event of the year. This isn’t just volunteering—it’s joining a crew of rebels and adventurers who bring the BWR magic to life.
Volunteer Roles:
- Registration Staff: Welcome riders with a smile, hand out race packets, and get everyone hyped up for their big day. Your good vibes set the tone for an unforgettable event!
- Aid Station Crew: Be the hero riders didn’t know they needed! Keep them hydrated, fed, and encouraged as they tackle this audacious course. Think snacks, electrolytes, and cheers galore!
- Course Marshals: Be the guardians of the route! Keep riders on track, manage crossings, and make noise with your trusty cowbell. Pro tip: Bring sunscreen and your best directing skills.
- Setup and Teardown Crew: Rock star roadies wanted! Help bring this massive event to life with setup before the race and teardown after the dust settles.
- Finish Line Staff: Welcome warriors home! Hand out hard-earned finisher medals, direct the flow, and cheer on riders like the legends they are.
- Exclusive BWR Arizona volunteer swag (wear it proudly—you’ve earned it!).
- Complimentary food and drinks during your shift.
- Front-row access to the insanity and triumph that is BWR AZ.
- The chance to meet amazing people and be part of a legendary community.
- Pre-Race Setup: Friday, February 28, 2025
- Race Day: Saturday, March 1, 2025
- Location: Stagecoach Village, Cave Creek, Arizona
Visit our BikeReg Volunteer Page to pick your role and time slot. We’ll send you all the info you need to be part of the magic.
Why Volunteer?
The BWR Arizona isn’t just a race; it’s a full-throttle celebration of grit, camaraderie, and the wild unroad spirit. Volunteering puts you at the heart of the action, where legends are made, and every moment counts.
Grab your energy, bring your best vibes, and join the party that’s redefining cycling events. We can’t do it without YOU!
Sign up now and be part of something unforgettable!
Lodging
You'll want to be as close to the Stagecoach Village in Cave Creek, AZ as possible to fully experience the race weekend excitement. There are several accommodations nearby, ranging from cozy inns to more luxurious stays. Here’s a list of the best places to stay near the start:
1. The Boulders Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for something unique or a more private experience, consider checking out Airbnb options in Cave Creek or North Scottsdale. You can find everything from charming desert casitas to larger homes to share with friends or fellow riders.
Additional Tips:
1. The Boulders Resort & Spa
- Location: 34631 N. Tom Darlington Drive, Carefree, AZ
- Distance to Stagecoach Village: ~15-minute drive
- Why Stay Here?
- This upscale resort offers a luxurious experience with stunning desert views, multiple pools, a spa, and golf courses. Perfect for unwinding after a long day of riding, or if you're looking to treat yourself.
- Location: 37220 Mule Train Road, Carefree, AZ
- Distance to Stagecoach Village: ~10-minute drive
- Why Stay Here?
- A tranquil resort with desert landscapes, perfect for relaxation. Features include golf, a spa, and plenty of open spaces to recharge before or after the event.
- Location: 7325 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ
- Distance to Stagecoach Village: ~25-minute drive
- Why Stay Here?
- A solid mid-range option with modern amenities, free breakfast, and a fitness center. It’s close enough to Cave Creek for convenience but with a bit more of a city feel.
- Location: 7200 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ
- Distance to Stagecoach Village: ~30-minute drive
- Why Stay Here?
- A sprawling resort with multiple pools, restaurants, and easy access to downtown Scottsdale. A great choice for those who want to explore the city after the ride.
- Location: 7350 E Gold Dust Ave, Scottsdale, AZ
- Distance to Stagecoach Village: ~30-minute drive
- Why Stay Here?
- Offering convenient, budget-friendly accommodations, this hotel provides comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast. Ideal for cyclists looking for a practical, affordable stay.
- Location: 7125 E 5th Ave #110, Scottsdale, AZ
- Distance to Stagecoach Village: ~30-minute drive
- Why Stay Here?
- This is a great option for those looking for a “home-away-from-home” experience. It offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays.
If you’re looking for something unique or a more private experience, consider checking out Airbnb options in Cave Creek or North Scottsdale. You can find everything from charming desert casitas to larger homes to share with friends or fellow riders.
Additional Tips:
- Book early! Accommodations fill up fast around the time of major events like the BWR AZ, so securing a place early is key.
- Shuttles and transportation: Some hotels may offer shuttle services to the event or you may want to consider renting a car if you're staying a little further out.
Accommodation search powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission on bookings made through this map, at no extra cost to you.
Event details are provided by the organizer. Gravel Calendar LLC is not responsible for their accuracy. Please participate at your own risk.
Event organizer
Monuments of Cycling is committed to delivering the most unique cycling events in the country, offering experiences for the most elite athletes on the planet, as well as those in awe of them, through the creation of world-class races that engage riders in myriad and unexpected ways. Our mission is to inspire riders of all stripes to reach, grow and aspire to new levels of fulfillment and joy, finding unusual avenues to test their physical and mental fortitude. To learn more, visit www.MonumentsofCycling.com.
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