Etape du Dales

The Etape du Dales is a cyclosportive held in May each year, in the Yorkshire Dales in the UK. It was originally established as an alternative to the oversubscribed Fred Whitton Challenge; like the Fred Whitton, the Etape du Dales is a long day's ride over steep hills, and the proceeds go to charity – the Dave Rayner fund.

It is ranked as one of the most popular and challenging sportives in the UK, covering 112 mi with 11,500 ft of climbing and is considered one of the top ten rides in the UK.

Raynet provide communications support.

Route
The Etape du Dales route is considered challenging.

The route starts and finishes at Wharfedale rugby club in Grassington. The route has varied slightly over time, but now includes Fleet Moss, Tan Hill Inn (the highest pub in England), Buttertubs Pass, and Coal Road. In 2009, the route was 175 km, with around 3,500 m of ascents; in 2011, the total distance was 180 km.

A shorter, gentler route, known as the Presidents Ride, is also available.