The L’Alpe Bl’Huez Hill Climb 20k TT (Time Trial), sponsored by Mad City Velo and hosted by the Wisconsin-Illinois Cycling Association (WIIL Cycle), is a grueling ascent in Blue Mound, WI, starting at the Village of Blue Mounds southwest corner (3022 County Hwy F, Blue Mounds, WI 53517) and finishing atop Blue Mound State Park. This American Bicycle Racing (ABR)-sanctioned event begins at 8:00 AM CDT, with riders launching every minute as part of the Mid America Time Trial Series (MATTS). Covering 20 km (12.4 miles), this challenging course welcomes all levels—juniors, masters, and open categories—offering a Wisconsin twist on the legendary Alpe d’Huez climb. Mad City Velo, a Madison-based USAC team (madcityvelo.org), awards medals for the top 5 per category and $30 cash prizes for the fastest overall, women, and juniors. Register at wiilcycle.org/register for $30 (adults) or $15 (juniors)—on-site adds $10 ($5 park admission), opening at 6:30 AM at the park summit. Post-race, enjoy snacks and sweeping views, a pinnacle of Wisconsin cycling events.
The course mimics an Alpine ascent, starting flat from Blue Mounds village, heading west on County Hwy ID, then north (downhill) on County Hwy K before the real climb begins. Riders turn southeast onto Mounds Park Rd, then west onto Mounds Rd, tackling a relentless 1,200 ft elevation gain (peak 1,716 ft) over rolling terrain to the Blue Mound State Park finish. Pavement is smooth but narrow, winding through Dane County’s Driftless Area farmland and forest—perfect for sustained 20-25 mph efforts early, slowing to 10-15 mph on the steepest grades (up to 10%). Open to traffic, safety is key—ride right, use a rear red blinker (highly recommended), and follow marshals. Top times from past events hover around 45-50 minutes—test your legs on this Midwest monster.
L’Alpe Bl’Huez Hill Climb 20k TT Weather
Mid-June weather in Blue Mound brings mild, pleasant conditions, with morning temperatures ranging from 65-75°F at the 8:00 AM start—ideal for climbing but warming later. Humidity averages 65-75%, adding slight stickiness—bring a bottle or two for hydration as sweat builds on the ascent. Winds blow at 8-12 mph, often from the south or southeast, aiding flat sections but challenging uphill—pace to leverage tailwinds early. There’s a 25-35% chance of light showers, though mid-June mornings are typically dry—check forecasts closer to race day for tire and clothing adjustments.
Travel Directions
- From Milwaukee, WI (100 miles southwest): Take I-94 W ~80 miles to I-90 W, exit at WI-18 W/WI-151 S (Exit 261), go south 15 miles to US-18 W, follow 5 miles to County Hwy F, turn left to 3022 County Hwy F (1.75-2 hr drive).
- From Kenosha, WI (90 miles west): Head west on WI-50 W ~40 miles to I-94 W, take I-90 W 40 miles to WI-18 W/WI-151 S (Exit 261), go south 15 miles to US-18 W, follow 5 miles to County Hwy F, turn left to 3022 County Hwy F (1.5-1.75 hr drive).
- From Madison, WI (25 miles northeast): Drive west on US-18 W/US-151 S ~20 miles to County Hwy F in Blue Mounds, turn left to 3022 County Hwy F (30-40 min drive).
- From Chicago, IL (150 miles northwest): Take I-90 W ~130 miles to WI-18 W/WI-151 S (Exit 261), go south 15 miles to US-18 W, follow 5 miles to County Hwy F, turn left to 3022 County Hwy F (2.5-2.75 hr drive).
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