The 2010 Davis to Santa Rosa stage is an almost carbon copy of the 2009 Stage until the 70 mile point, when the racers will veer south after Deer Park into Napa Valley, taking the race through some of more well known Napa Valley vineyards along the Silverado Trail.

Another big difference will be the weather — last year, huge crowds turned out in the Platinum-level bicycle friendly city of Davis and in Santa Rosa, in spite of the cruddy weather.

The route from Davis to Santa Rosa will provide plenty of scenic settings for both the cyclists and spectators. The route includes evenly spaced climbs throughout the stage and spectacular views.

After 20 miles of flat roads, the riders will meet their first climb up a short, but steep section leading up to the Monticello Dam. This short climb is followed quickly by the difficult “Cardiac Hill”. Another long, flat section along Lake Berryessa will take the riders to their third climb up Howell Mountain Rd., followed by a fast descent into Napa Valley.

After one final climb up the Oakville Grade and a steep descent down Trinity Grade, the cyclists will finish the race in Santa Rosa. Race organizers continue to include the city of Santa Rosa because the locals consistently show up with a great turnout and rapid enthusiasm for the race and other related events.

Elsewhere:

* Santa Rosa organizing committee @ Twitter.
* Davis Tour of California @ Twitter.
* Keep the Tour Santa Rosa.
* 2010 Stage 2 Map
* 2010 Stage 2 Elevation Profile.
* 2010 Amgen Tour of California Stage 2 description and details.

The Amgen Tour of California route details are being posted this week, with Stages 1 and 2 announced this morning.

Stage 1 – Nevada City to Sacramento

The 2010 Amgen Tour of California will begin with the first-ever visit to the picturesque town of Nevada City, CA, which will also be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Nevada City Classic.

From there the race will head south en route to Sacramento, and will travel through Grass Valley and Old Town in Auburn. Heading out of Auburn, the cyclists will cross over the Auburn-Foresthill Bridge – the tallest bridge in California and the third highest in the U.S.

The cyclists will begin at an elevation of over 2,500 feet and descend to nearly sea level in Sacramento. The mostly downhill stage interrupted by a handful of climbs (including a 1,000′ climb from Auburn to Cool, CA) which will favor the sprinters.

Sacramento streets will once again see the teams finish their 104 mile race with three fast circuits around the State’s Capitol building.

I already have a couple of viewing locations planned for this stage. What are you suggestions?

Elsewhere:
* Stage 1 Map.
* Stage 1 Elevation Profile.
* Amgen Tour of California Stage 1 description and details.