Paso de Indios

Overview

Paso de Indios is a compact Category 4 climb that packs a clean, honest effort into just 1.8 km. From a start elevation of 318 m it lifts you to a summit of 399 m, a net gain of 81 m at an average gradient of 4.4%. That places it firmly in the "short and steady" bracket: long enough to matter, short enough to attack. The maximum gradient touches 4.72%, so there is very little variance between the average and the steepest section. In practical terms, that means the road you see is the road you get — no hidden ramps, no cruel surprises near the top.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature of Paso de Indios is its consistency. With an average of 4.4% and a max of only 4.72%, the gradient barely deviates across the full 1.8 km. The gap between the two figures is just 0.32%, which is about as flat a profile band as a categorised climb offers. Note too that the net elevation gain of 81 m exceeds the total ascent of 62 m, a sign that the road tilts almost entirely upward with negligible dips or false flats to break the rhythm. You settle into one cadence at the base and hold it. There is no need to save matches for a wall, because there is no wall — the climb simply asks for a sustained, even push from bottom to top.

Pacing Notes

Because the gradient is so uniform, Paso de Indios rewards a single, well-chosen power target rather than surges. Pick an effort just below or right at threshold and lock it in for the whole 1.8 km. If you know your FTP, aim to sit close to it here — the climb is short enough that a slightly over-threshold effort is sustainable without blowing up before the 399 m summit. If you are unsure of your number, run the numbers through the FTP estimator before you plan the effort. With only 81 m to gain, the whole climb is over in a handful of minutes, so the risk is going too easy rather than too hard. Start at your target power from the first metre and hold it steady.

Gearing

Given the modest 4.4% average and 4.72% max, most riders will find this climb comfortable on standard gearing. A compact 34-tooth chainring paired with a 34×32 low gear leaves plenty of margin for spinning up the steady slope without straining. If you prefer to keep cadence high on tired legs, or you are carrying luggage, a 34×34 low gear gives extra headroom. Neither setup is essential on a climb this gentle, but having 34×32 or 34×34 available means you can stay seated and smooth all the way to the top.

Summary

Paso de Indios is a short, uniform Category 4 climb — ideal for dialling in a steady threshold effort or as a warm-up on a bigger day. The near-identical average and max gradients make it one of the most predictable ascents you will ride.

Length: 1.8 km
Average gradient: 4.4%
Max gradient: 4.72%
Start: 318 m
Summit: 399 m
Net gain: 81 m
Total ascent: 62 m
Category: 4