4 Peaks Gran Fondo: The Best Ride to Prepare for LoToJa 2025
Pocatello, Idaho – Cyclists preparing for the iconic LoToJa Classic on September 6, 2025, now have the opportunity to improve their training this year by participating in the 4 Peaks Gran Fondo, happening Saturday, August 9 in the Portneuf Valley of Southeast Idaho.
Designed as a strategic training ride held four weeks ahead of LoToJa, the 4 Peaks Gran Fondo offers riders an 82-mile course with 7,300 feet of elevation gain, simulating the climbing demands of the 200-mile LoToJa event. This challenging, scenic ride through Idaho’s Portneuf Valley is already gaining recognition as “The Toughest Ride in Idaho.”
“4 Peaks is more than just a ride, it’s one of the best rides in the region to prepare you for a successful LoToJa experience”, said Jyl Call, of Pocatello, ID. “With the four major climbs, stunning terrain, and ideal timing, this event helps cyclists build a foundation of both physical endurance and mental resilience.”
The 4 Peaks route features four major climbs—Crystal Summit, Scout Mountain, Pebble Creek, and Buckskin—providing a focused opportunity to develop climbing strength, improve cadence, and simulate the rigors of LoToJa’s mountainous profile. The manageable distance allows for high-quality effort without excessive wear, supporting both performance gains and appropriate recovery before race day.
Beyond the physical challenge, 4 Peaks Gran Fondo offers riders a chance to refine nutrition strategies, test gear under race-like conditions, and build mental stamina to complete one of the longest sanctioned, single-day races in the U.S. Cyclists of all experience levels, training for LoToJa or other endurance events are encouraged to participate in the 4 peaks ride. This event is fully supported with aid stations, route markings, mechanical assistance, and a catered lunch for all riders at the end of the ride.
Event Details
•Event: 4 Peaks Gran Fondo
•Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025
•Location: Pocatello & Inkom, ID
•Distance: 82 miles
•Elevation Gain: 7,300 feet
•Registration: www.4pgf.com
About the 4 Peaks Gran Fondo:
The 4 Peaks Gran Fondo is a challenging, high-altitude road cycling event based in Southeast Idaho. Known for its beautiful course and tough elevation profile, it’s earned a reputation as “The Toughest Ride in Idaho.” Held annually in early August, and becoming a go-to training event for cyclists preparing for longer endurance races like LoToJa.
