Gravel riding has exploded in popularity in recent years, and with that comes an abundance of amazing routes and events to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic leisurely ride or a challenging race, there’s a gravel route or event out there for you. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular gravel riding routes and events from around the world.
Unbound
Emporia, Kansas, USA
Unbound is widely considered one of the most challenging gravel races in the world. Held annually in Emporia, Kansas, the race takes riders on a 200-mile journey through the Flint Hills. The event attracts riders from all over the world, and is known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
Grinduro
Various Locations
Grinduro is a unique event that combines gravel riding, enduro-style racing, and a festival atmosphere. Held in various locations around the world, Grinduro offers a challenging and fun experience for riders of all skill levels. The event features a mix of timed stages and untimed riding, and includes food, music, and other festivities.
Rebecca’s Private Idaho
Ketchum, Idaho, USA
Rebecca’s Private Idaho is a gravel race and festival held in Ketchum, Idaho. The event offers a variety of race distances, including a 100-mile “Big Potato” option that takes riders through the beautiful backcountry of Idaho. The festival also features live music, food, and other activities for riders and spectators.
Almanzo
The Almanzo is a free event in Minnesota that features several gravel routes of varying distances, with the longest being 380 miles.
Dirty Reiver
Kielder Forest, UK
Dirty Reiver is a 200-kilometer gravel race held in the stunning Kielder Forest in Northumberland, UK. The race takes riders on a challenging journey through some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK, including the Pennine Way and Hadrian’s Wall. The event attracts riders from all over the world, and is known for its tough climbs and fast descents.
La Gravel Sud
Mont Ventoux, France
La Gravel Sud is a unique gravel race held in the shadow of Mont Ventoux in the south of France. The race offers riders the chance to tackle some of the most challenging terrain in the region, including the legendary climb up Mont Ventoux itself. The event attracts riders from all over Europe, and is known for its stunning scenery and challenging climbs.
Land Run 100
Held in Oklahoma, the Land Run 100 features a challenging course that includes mud, gravel, and even a river crossing.
Trans Iowa
Trans Iowa is an ultra-distance event that covers 300 miles of gravel roads in Iowa. It’s a challenging event that tests even the most experienced gravel riders.
Crusher in the Tushar
This event takes place in Utah and features a challenging course that includes a 12,000-foot climb over high-altitude gravel roads.
Conclusion:
These are just a few examples of the many amazing gravel riding routes and events out there. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to gravel riding, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had on the gravel roads of the world. So get out there and explore!
