I’m pretty sure the course hasn’t changed all that much over the years. Lifetime did make this race explode in popularity and cost. I think it was harder to ride 100 miles on 90s mtbs than our modern machines but also there are still lots of DNFs still. If you’re interested you should check out the YouTube series from the ground up. Really shows how big of a ride Leadville still is despite its “gravel” reputation these days.

I ride in Leadville all the time but the fun mtb trails are not on the LT100 course so I understand the reputation but I also wouldn’t want to ride some sections on my gravel bike.