The Marin Century has been staged every year since 1963, that means that the Marin Cyclists Cycling Club has an extended history and first hand experience to host an unforgettable  event. The Marin Cyclist cycling club is non-profit organization, run entirely by volunteers, many of whom happily return year after year to pass along their excitement and experience.

We go above and beyond to ensure the safety and enjoyment our riders have come to expect. Well marked routes with SAG, California Highway Patrol presence at major intersections, qualified first aid and bike repair personnel at rest stops and a dedicated ambulance posted in the remote region of West Marin.  

To date, we have donated over $585,000 back to our community. We strive to be inclusive, sustainable and supportive of local communities and small businesses.



Year after year in our post ride survey, 98% of our past riders responded that they “Would recommend the Marin Century to a friend”

Recognized by Outside Magazine as one of the Top 25 Rides in the world; (May 2019).

Voted Best Cycling Event in Marin by Pacific Sun readers year after year.

Highlights and reviews from our 2024 Marin Century Survey:

• Thank you for a great ride that was well-planned and well supported!"-BW
• This ride was excellent. I look forward to riding it next year.-SC
• "Truly outstanding organization supporting all riders (I rode the 100km). Loved the registration by mail option so that I could skip sign in and start my ride early at 7 am to beat the heat. Excellent volunteers who are efficient and friendly. Excellent food, drink and bathroom coverage at each of the 4 rest stops. Really loved the variety of fresh fruit, focaccia, homemade fruit crumbles and hot dogs available. Keep the V8 and coconut water options - those are excellent for restoring electrolytes. Great course design (100km) and appreciate the signage and police at big intersections. Thank you thank you thank you and see you next year! "-MR
• Best bike riding event in the Bay!-EC
• All the volunteers were GREAT! -PH
• My third century ride in the last 12 months and by far the best! Your team is organized with great on ride support, rest stops and friendly people. Loved it and can't wait to ride again next year.-RL
• The After Party is the best of any ride we do.-AP
• The team is amazing! Thank you for your support and for the first stop BACON!-KB
• Appreciated presence of highway patrol at problematic turns. Good signs to show turns.-RS 
• Excellent volunteer support everywhere including the rest stops, thank you. Keep the highway patrol and sag support for safety and traffic. These are a few of the reasons we ride this annually.-RC

Beneficiaries include:

Marin County Bicycle Coalition

Opening the World c/o BACR

Santa Rosa Cycling Club

Marin Amateur Radio Society

Cory's Ride

WeAre SR!

AIDS Life Cycle

Bolinas-Stinson Union School

Tomales Village Community Services District (TVCSD)

California Bicycle Coalition (CalBike)

Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition

Novato MTB Middle School

Skyline High School

SRHS Class of 2025 Parents

SRHS Spirit Boosters

Team Swift

Terra Linda MTB Team

Buckalew Programs

Kelly Brush Foundation

Laguna Joint School District

West Marin Community Services

Bike East Bay

Rich City Rides

San Francisco Bicycle Coalition

Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition

Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program

Cycles of Change

Owen Wentzel c/o Team Swift

Waterside Workshops

Conservation Corp of the North Bay

Lagunitas School District

Marin County Parks

North Marin Community Services

Extrafood

Nicasio School Foundation

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

IT IS A DAUNTING TASK TO BE FULLY SUSTAINABLE BUT regardless,  WE always go the last mile.



Waste is sorted into recyclable, compostable and landfill containers. Last year, we diverted over 98% of the recycling and compost away from land fills.

• Instead of plastic cups, we will have souvenir metal cups
• We use biodegradable and compostable products wherever possible and limit single use non recyclable containers.
• We support local businesses including caterers, Gelato, fresh produce, and bakeries.Leftover food is donated to Extra Food or delivered directly to the unhoused in our area.  
• Leftover food is donated to Extra Food Marin.

• Your choice of five well marked courses.
• Marin Amateur Radio Society(MARS), and SAG vehicles on all courses
• Mechanical support from local bike shops
• Police support at busy intersections
• Medical personnel stationed at rest stops and available on course
• Paper Maps, cue sheets and RWGPS electronic directions
• Specialized, high quality commemorative water bottle
• Optional Concierge delivery of your rider packet. 
• Well spaced and fully stocked rest stops with ice cold beverages, fresh local fruit, sweet and salty snacks, energy bars and drinks.
• Locally made goodies - focaccia, PIE!. doughnuts, cinnamon rolls, and more!
• Fresh hot morning coffee bar
• Post ride BBQ feast that includes gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options
• Delicious small batch, gelato or dairy free sorbet from Fiorello's
• Your first cold craft beer from Pond Farm Brewing is on us too!
• Live musicians at select rest stops and on course
• Live music at the Finish expo and party

Extra perks this year:

• Mass starts for each route
• Complementary 15 minute sports massage
• Drop bags
• Pacing Ambassadors riding with you
• Free professional photo

Maybe you are just getting into cycling or maybe you used to ride a lot but haven’t been riding that much lately. If sixty miles sounds like too much for you this year, but you want to participate and you want to earn the after-ride Party extravaganza, then we have just the right course for you, the 37 mile, (60 Km) Geronimo. Ride west on Novato Blvd from Stafford Lake Park and head to the beautiful, rural, San Geronimo Valley (hence the name of this route) and Nicasio Valley Reservoir. Complete the clockwise loop under the towering Redwood Trees of Samuel P. Taylor State Park then return over the punchy hill, “Col de Fromage,” to the finish line. We will treat you to a great rest stop at mile 18, complete with a musicians, mechanics, lots of food and drinks of all kinds. We will also be staging water stops at miles 10, 24, and 30. Special course ambassadors will be available on this route for extra assistance, just in case. We won’t sugar coat it, this route has some climbing, with a total elevation gain of 2,270 feet, but don’t worry, we got you!

The Metric Century is a 61 -mile (100Km) course that travels through lovely West Marin in a clockwise direction.  Climb up out of Stafford Lake Park, passing by cows to reach the ever pretty Nicasio Valley Reservoir. Stop for a break before Pt Reyes Station, then head north on Highway 1 marveling at the scenic water views of Tomales Bay and on to the country town park of Tomales, for a rest and some live music.  Flow through the pastoral farm lands on the favorite local bikers road, Chileno Valley.  Recover and fuel up at the Laguna School before you spin those hard working legs up Wilson Hill. We will have SAG vehicles and water if you need a little extra help up the day’s most challenging climb. Be careful on the steep descent, then mostly coast back to the finish line and to the after-ride party.  You’ve earned it!   Your total elevation gain for this route will be just under 4,000

The Century is our most popular route choice, and for good reason. Whether it’s your first Century or your 50th, 100 miles in one day is always a memorable, iconic day. The Century follows the same path as the Metric, so it includes Tomales Bay views, farmland, cows, more cows, rolling Chileno Valley Road, and challenging Wilson Hill, but also has two add-ons. The first addition is early in the course; it is a trip through the Redwood trees and San Geronimo Valley, replete with its own rest stop and live music. The second extra section, which comes towards the end of the day, is a loop on the serene West Marin Roads including freshly paved Spring Hill Road and yet another fully stocked rest stop on the edges of historic Petaluma. Your total climbing for this route will be about 6200 feet, not the easiest Century, but far from the hardest. 



The Mt. Tam route trades miles for elevation. You will “only” ride 93 miles but you will climb, climb, and climb. The Double Metric and the Mt. Tam follow the same tough challenging route for the first 78 miles. You will ride through rolling farmland to the town of Fairfax. Then, continue UP the remote Bolinas-Fairfax Road, pass Alpine Dam, UP to the exposed, panoramic, Ridgecrest spine, followed by more UP to the summit of Mt. Tamalpais. Phew, you have completed more than half of the climbing! Next, it’s time for jaw dropping scenery on a descent down steep and twisty, possibly wet and slippery roads, all the way back to sea level. But that’s only mile 50. Head north, passing beautiful beaches and Pacific Ocean rocky outcroppings, on undulating Highway 1, almost to Pt. Reyes Station. The Double Metric route keeps heading north at this point, but the Mt.Tam route will short cut back to the start. The final, comparatively short, climbs up Cheese Factory Hill and Novato Blvd might hurt your tired legs as you head to the finish line. Please be aware that this route is for experienced cyclists only.  It is technically challenging, has fewer rest stops, more traffic, and more climbing than the Century. The Mt. Tam course has a whopping 9,000 feet of climbing, in only 93 miles.

If you are a strong, super fit, endurance bike rider who loves to climb, then you might have what it takes to ride the Double Metric Century, with 124 miles and almost 11,000 feet of elevation gain. It combines all of the Mt Tam course AND the Metric course into one big ride! You’ll see it all – farmland, redwoods, Mt. Tam (of course), ocean, lake, and Bay views, and small coastal towns. Pass through the protected lands of a water district, two state parks and a National Recreation Area. You’ll have extended climbs on isolated roads and views from atop Mt. Tamalpais that will draw your attention away from the task at hand (keep your eyes on the road though). The Double Metric Century is for experienced cyclists accustomed to huge climbs and steep, technical descents, on sometimes rough and slippery roads with some sections of busy traffic. You must be fast enough to complete this killer course before the time cut off at mile 78, or you will be diverted on to the Mt. Tam route. You should prefer to spend your time in the saddle all day, rather than hang out at the after-ride party, because you will miss the music and a lot of the party. Don’t worry, we will make sure to save you plenty of dinner and feed you royally at the rest stops. Please make sure that both you and your bike are up for the challenge. 



MASS START TIMES

Double Metric: 6 am

Mt. Tam 6:30 am

Century 7  am 

Metric:  8 am

Geronimo: 9 am

Mass starts are fun but they are not for everyone.  If you prefer NOT to join in on the mass starts, please start as follows:

Double Metric: Must start at 6:00 am

Mt. Tam: start between 6:15 - 6:45 am

Century: start between 6:45 am and 7:15 am 

Metric:  start between 7:45 am and 8:15 am

Geronimo: start between 8:45 am and 9:15 am

IF YOU HAVE YOUR BIB number AND WRISTBAND THERE IS NO NEED TO STOP AT REGISTRATION. JUST line up at the Start Line for the Mass Starts

IF YOU START SIGNIFICANTLY BEFORE OR AFTER THESE TIMES YOU RISK GETTING TO THE REST STOPS BEFORE THEY OPEN OR AFTER THEY CLOSE OR RIDING BEFORE OR AFTER THE COURSE IS SUPPORTED.

CUT OFF TIMES: Cut off times will be strictly enforced in order to ensure SAG support and your return to the finish before closing time.

Double Metric: You must depart the West Marin Rest Stop before 2:45 pm. or you will be diverted to the Mt Tam Course

Century: The Spring Hill loop (mile 66 - 90) will close at 3 pm and you will be diverted to the finish.

Location

Stafford Lake Park

3549 Novato Blvd.

Novato, CA 94947

Parking and Directions

Free parking is available on site.

From Highway 101 take exit 463 San Marin Dr. West 2.9 miles to Novato Blvd. Turn right and drive 2.6 miles to the park. 

Follow the directions of our parking attendants.

Parking is limited. Please carpool if possible.

Get Google Maps Directions Here

Our event is not a race. You must ride safely at all times. If you are seen riding unsafely, you will be pulled from the course and not be permitted to finish the ride.

You must also follow the rules outlined below.

• Wear a helmet at all times while riding.
• Do not  wear earbuds in both ears while riding
• Be responsible for the safety and condition of your bicycle and cycling equipment.
• Cyclists must obey all California vehicle code laws, including making full stops at stop signs and signals. Local authorities will be on course and may cite violators.
• Be courteous to local drivers and respectful of traffic.
• Use the rest stop services provided by Marin Cyclists. Ride single file except when passing or in protected shoulders
• Ride as close to the right side of the road as practicable
• Announce “on your left” when passing other riders.
• Be very careful when riding near pace lines.
• Move to the right to let faster riders pass.
• Pin your rider number to your jersey and wear your wristband for course support and to enter the rest stops and post-ride party.
• Private SAG vehicles are not allowed and will result in your removal from the course.  

Carry the following:

• Driver's license or other form of identification
• Spare tube
• Patch kit
• Pump or CO2 cartridges
• Tire levers
• Tools
• Water bottles
• Cell phone
• Personal clothing
• Any medications you may need including inhalers, epi pens etc.

My Packet did not come in the mail what where do get it?

Please come to the Registration Booth at Stafford Lake on August 2. We are open at 6:00 am

Where's my T shirt that I ordered?

T Shirts are available for pick up from the Marin Cyclists booth in the EXPO when you return from your ride.

What time does the ride start? 

Double Metric: 6 am mass start (start window 6 - 6:15 am)

Mt. Tam: 6:30 am mass start (start window 6:15 - 6:45 am)

Century: 7  am mass start (start window 6:45 am to 7:15 am) 

Metric:  8 am mass start (start window 7:45 am to 8:15 am

Geronimo: 9 am mass start (start window 8:45 am to 9:15 am)

How is the course marked? 

Routes will be marked with (road) route arrows and signs. However, the most reliable directions can be found on the reverse side of the map or downloadable  on RidewithGPS cues.

Double Metric: YELLOW signs and arrows

Mt. Tam: BLUE signs and arrows

Century: GREEN signs and arrows, 

Metric: ORANGE signs and arrows, 

Geronimo: PURPLE signs and arrows

Do I need to check in at the start?

Riders must check in to pick up their packets(valid ID required) unless you received your bib & wristband in the mail (choose concierge options during registration). 

How difficult are the courses?

We offer a ride to challenge everyone. You must be fit and trained to complete any of the courses. rides. Please review the maps and elevations profiles on RWGPS

Note: Routes are subject to change.

How is the condition of the roads?

Generally good, but you should always be alert. Road conditions on Mt. Tam Fairfax/Bolinas Rd can be variable. Potholes, fissures, and loose gravel are common. One way lane controls may be in effect. The descents in all areas can be wet from dew and some corners are off camber. Ride safe and stay in control.

Are there bail out options to shorten a course?

The Double Metric and the Century have an option to bail out so riders can shorten their ride back to the finish. Please note that there may not be ride support if you take a shortcut.

Is there a clothing drop? 

Yes!  Bag drops will be available at West Marin Elementary and Tomales Rest Stops.  After the ride, pick up your clothing at the Marin Cyclists Club Booth in the after ride expo area.  

Where can I stay nearby?

Hotels closest to Stafford Lake Park include:

Days Inn by Wyndham Novato/San Francisco

Americas Best Value Inn Novato Marin Sonoma

Inn Marin and Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

Is there camping at Stafford Lake?

There is no camping allowed at Stafford Lake Park. The nearest RV park is Novato RV Park The closest campgrounds are the Olema Campground the Back Ranch Campground in China Camp.

Where can I rent a bike?

It may be difficult to find rental or demo road bikes in the area. Local bike shops that may be able to help include Mikes Bikes San Rafael and Sports Basement Novato,

Can my family come to meet me at the finish?

Yes, absolutely and you can purchase a meal or beer ticket for them at the Marin Cyclists Booth in the Expo

Can we bring our dog?

Unfortunately, Stafford Lake Park does not allow dogs or other domestic animals, except for service animals per the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Can I pick up my packet on Friday?

We do not provide Friday packet pick up, if you would like to receive your packet in the mail please select “Concierge Service “ when registering 

Why don’t you give refunds?

The costs to put on the Marin Century are considerable and our expenses start early in the year. However, you can transfer your registration to another rider at no charge.  

Can I defer to next year? Why not?

Similar to the reasons for not allowing refunds, we do not allow deferrals. Again, if you register and are unable to ride the event, you can transfer your registration for free. 

Will you have gluten free food at the rest stops?

Each rest stop will have a variety of food that will include some gluten free options. However, if you have specific dietary restrictions, you may want to bring along food of your own choosing to ensure you have enough to eat during the ride.

Will you have electrolytes and energy gels?

Yes, each rest stop will have electrolyte powder from our in-kind sponsor, Osmo.  Each rest stop will also have limited energy gels and bars.  We concentrate on providing food you wouldn’t normally carry on your usual rides.  If you like a particular drink mix or fuel, please bring your own.

John is a dedicated and seasoned cycling coach with over 20 years of experience and numerous coaching certifications.Take your cycling to the next level with a 24 week hybrid training program to conquer the Marin Century. John Cheetham, of Tempo Endurance Coaching, will be offering a complete, 24 week, hybrid Marin Century training plan with extra perks including monthly online meetings where participants can ask questions. This plan will showcase special guests and topics, like nutrition, mobility, and bike fits, and more! There will also be a virtual training ride once a week with a chat function. Early bird pricing is $399 for the whole program.

Check out John's blog for monthly posts dedicated to helping the novice rider get ready for their first big ride. Here's the plan from January thru July.

• Bike Fit
• Calibrating Effort
• Nutrition off the bike
• Nutrition On The Ride
• Effective Shoe Support and avoiding hot spots.
• Getting Your Bike Serviced
• Race Day Nerves



Coach Adrian Bennett will host a free in person class at Sports Basement in the Presidio, San Francisco on January 21 and a free in person cycling skills clinic at the San Francisco polo fields in February (date to be determined)

Adrian channels his passion for high-performance cycling into his coaching practice.  He has experience supporting clients of all ages and ability levels.

Adrian’s body of work as a bike racer, in the power meter industry, as a mechanic, and as an ultra-endurance cyclist help him support the many and varied needs of athletes he works with. A compassionate listener with a systematic troubleshooting approach, Adrian can help clients identify physical and mental limitations and suggest ways to move beyond them. 

Marissa Axel  is a very approachable coach with a special focus on women cyclists over 40. She is offering a 15-week cycling training program bundle for the Marin Century. In the first 30 days you’ll climb stronger, ride farther at faster average speeds, while creating more energy. You will also get her hour-long fuel for success program AND her "how to perform and train for heat, altitude and hydration" program. 

For $250, you will learn everything you need to know about training, fueling and heat/hydration! 

And what’s more, Marissa will be leading a free in person ride in Marin on April 12, 2025 focusing on climbing techniques.

Volunteer sign ups will be available soon

The Marin Century has been held for 60 years and attracts cyclists from all over the country, featuring breathtaking routes that wind through the stunning landscapes of Marin County. From challenging climbs to scenic coastal roads, participants can choose from three route options . The event is not only a celebration of cycling but also an opportunity to promote healthy living and showcase the beauty of Marin County.

To ensure the smooth execution of the Marin Century, we are seeking dedicated volunteers to help with a range of tasks, including registration, , rest stops, medical support, and general event assistance. Volunteers will play a vital role in creating a safe and enjoyable experience for participants, offering support, guidance, and encouragement along the routes.

No prior experience is necessary to volunteer for the Marin Century. All that is required is enthusiasm, a positive attitude, and a willingness to contribute to the success of this extraordinary event. Volunteers will receive training and support leading up to the event, ensuring they are well-prepared to fulfill their roles.  Lunch is provided for for shifts of 4 or more hours.

Get ready to pedal into unparalleled exposure and community engagement by sponsoring the Marin Century. Chosen by Outdoor Magazine as "One of the Top 25 Rides in the Country" in 2019, the Marin Century offers an exceptional opportunity for your company to connect with thousands of passionate cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts.

Why Sponsor the Marin Century?

• Visibility: Showcase your brand to a diverse audience of cyclists, families, and fitness enthusiasts from across the region. With extensive marketing efforts and media coverage, your logo will be prominently displayed, ensuring widespread recognition.
• Community Engagement: Demonstrate your commitment to health, wellness, and community involvement by supporting an event that promotes active lifestyles and outdoor recreation. Engage directly with participants and spectators to foster lasting connections.
• Customized Opportunities: Tailor your sponsorship package to align with your marketing objectives and budget. From logo placement on event materials to branded merchandise and experiential activations, we offer flexible options to suit your needs.
• Positive Impact: Contribute to the success of a beloved local event while making a meaningful difference in the community. Your sponsorship helps support important initiatives, including cycling advocacy, youth programs, and environmental conservation efforts.

Don't miss this chance to elevate your brand and make a lasting impression on thousands of participants and spectators. Join us in celebrating the spirit of cycling and outdoor adventure at the Marin Century!

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jeff Sanchez. Together, let's pedal towards success and unforgettable experiences!

If you are interested in exhibiting your products or services at our Expo on August 2, please contact Jeff Sanchez.

We will host over 1800 riders, 350 volunteers and hundreds family members and friends from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at beautiful Stafford Lake Park.



Each 10 x10 space is $100.

You must provide your own canopy, tables, chairs. Canopies must be secured by weights. No stakes are allowed.

Access to electricity is limited and not guaranteed. There is public wifi and running water on site.