Alto del Venado

Overview

Alto del Venado is a long, patient climb rather than a violent one. Over 34 km the road lifts you from a start elevation of 415 m to a summit of 1923 m — a net elevation gain of 1508 m at an average gradient of 4.43%. On paper that average looks gentle, and for long stretches it is. But the total ascent of 1545 m tells you there are dips and false flats hidden inside, meaning you climb slightly more than the net figure suggests. Rated Category 1, it sits just below hors catégorie in difficulty: not the hardest tier, but a serious, sustained effort that rewards riders who respect its length.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature here is duration, not steepness. A 4.43% average across 34 km is the kind of grade you can hold in the saddle, but the road is not uniform. The gap between the 1508 m net gain and the 1545 m total ascent — roughly 37 m of extra climbing — confirms the profile rolls, with brief descents and recoveries that break the rhythm. The sting is the max gradient of 10.71%, more than double the average. Those ramps are where a smooth tempo suddenly turns into a real punch. Expect long, moderate drags interrupted by short, sharp pitches that demand you shift down and get out of the saddle before settling back into the grind.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this long, the enemy is starting too hard. With 34 km and 1508 m to manage, the smart approach is to ride the early slopes well within yourself and save something for the steeper ramps near that 10.71% max. Anchor your effort to your FTP: sitting just below threshold for the sustained sections keeps you sustainable, then allow short surges above it on the steep pitches, knowing the grade eases afterward. If you don't know your threshold power, use the FTP estimator to set realistic targets before you go. A climb of this duration punishes ego far more than it punishes patience.

Gearing

Do not be fooled by the modest 4.43% average — 34 km of climbing wears down whatever gear you brought. For most riders a compact crankset paired with a wide-range cassette is the right call. A 34×32 is a sensible minimum, giving you a low enough bailout to spin through the 10.71% ramps without grinding to a halt. If you're carrying fatigue, riding at a lower fitness level, or simply prefer a higher cadence over such a long ascent, step up to a 34×34 for extra insurance. The lower gear costs you nothing on the flatter sections and buys real comfort deep into the climb when your legs start to protest.

Summary

Alto del Venado is a test of endurance and pacing over raw power — a long Category 1 climb whose gentle average hides both a rolling profile and steep ramps. Pace it conservatively, gear low, and let the 34 km come to you.

Length: 34 km
Average gradient: 4.43%
Max gradient: 10.71%
Start: 415 m
Summit: 1923 m
Net gain: 1508 m
Total ascent: 1545 m
Category: 1