Paso de Tacoma cycling climb profile
Paso de Tacoma is a category 1 climb in the US that asks for a controlled, disciplined effort rather than a short burst of climbing power. At 15.8 km, it is long enough that pacing mistakes made in the opening section will still be felt deep into the ascent. The average gradient of 5.31% points to a climb that is generally rideable in rhythm, but the maximum gradient of 11.3% changes how it should be approached.
The key feature is the combination of duration and variability. A climb averaging just over 5% can tempt riders into riding it like a tempo drag, especially from a start elevation of 439 m. But with the summit at 1279 m and a listed net elevation gain of 840 m, the work accumulates steadily. This is not a climb to attack early unless the goal is specifically to test repeatability under fatigue.
How the gradient unfolds
The headline average suggests a climb that spends much of its distance in manageable territory, but the 11.3% maximum grade means there are steeper pitches that can break cadence and force short spikes above threshold. That matters because on a 15.8 km ascent, those spikes are rarely free. Each time the gradient kicks up, the cost shows later as reduced ability to hold pressure on the steadier ramps.
With 819 m of total ascent listed, the climb has enough vertical demand to sit firmly in sustained climbing territory. The practical takeaway is simple: treat the lower slopes as the setup, not the selection point. If the road feels comfortable early, that is a reason to stay smooth, not a reason to press.
Pacing and gearing notes
For pacing, the best approach is to ride the opening portion under control, settle into a sustainable climbing cadence, and leave room for the steepest ramps. Riders using power should think in terms of avoiding unnecessary surges above /glossary/ftp, especially when the gradient moves toward the climb's maximum of 11.3%.
Gearing should be chosen for the steepest sections, not the average gradient. The 5.31% average can make the climb look moderate on paper, but an 11.3% ramp late in the effort will punish an overgeared setup. A lower climbing gear lets you keep torque under control, protect cadence, and avoid turning the climb into repeated low-cadence strength efforts.
What kind of rider it suits
Paso de Tacoma suits riders who can hold a steady aerobic effort and manage intensity changes without burning matches. It is less about one decisive wall and more about resisting the urge to overreact to each steeper pitch. The strongest ride here is likely the quietest one: even pressure, sensible gearing, and enough restraint to still be climbing well near the summit.