Top 10 North American Gravel Fondos for 2026

You've all heard of Garmin Unbound, Crusher in the Tusher,  BMC Rock Cobbler, Gravel Worlds, Barry Roubaix, Rebecca’s Private Idaho Sun Valley, SBT GRVL and Mid South. They have established themselves as Premier Gravel rides / races in North America, recognized around the world. They have entered our Hall of Fame,

Perhaps the greatest appeal is the adventure inherent in riding dozens of miles in remote locations without having to worry about cars.

The established North American gravel rides are weekend long festivals attracting thousands of riders with inclusivity encouraged. All ages, juniors and the whole LGBTQ+ community. Equality reigns, all genders in the North America ride the same distance and equal prize money.

Gran Fondo Guide has reached its 15th year of operation and is the undisputed Leading Amateur Cycling Platform in the World having reached a global audience of nearly 5.2 million unique users.

In 2026 we want recognise these events that are achieving so much -- on their journey to the Hall of Fame.

Make sure you add at least one of these outstanding events to your Bucket List in 2026!

The awards are best viewed on your computer or a widescreen tablet. It may take some time fully download because of the amount of images. So grab your favorite drink while it arrives.

This is an extreme gravel ride, not a pampered race — designed to test endurance, grit, and self-sufficiency. The remote gravel roads deep in the Ozark National Forest, are littered with relentless climbs and descents. Best for riders seeking a mental and physical test in very remote wilderness.

The long course is 76 miles with over 8,000 feet of climbing and the short course 45 miles. The course contains mixed surfaces of gravel, hard-pack dirt with a few chunky rock sections and some unavoidable pavement. It features some breath-taking views including Spy Rock Scenic Overlook and Hanging Rock overlook.

It contains a beautiful stretch of rollers climbing up to Kilgore Gap then on to the wild descent of Cadillac hill where you’ll lose most of the 1500ft of elevation back to the valley floor. From there you’ll do the final climb up to the Mule Farm for great overlooks then a long winding descent down to Oark with Smooth sailing for 10 cushy miles home.

The event is hosted by Byrd’s Adventure Center in Ozark which provides camping, RV sites, showers, and post-ride food.

Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM), 42 miles away, offers regional commercial flights.

The organizers emphasize that this is not a race — it’s a soul-testing grinder meant to challenge riders physically and mentally. It’s less about competition, more about pushing limits and appreciating the wilderness.

8,000 feet of climbing in under 80 miles off road is absolutely brutal — pacing and gearing are going to critical!

November in Arkansas can swing from chilly mornings to mild afternoons, with potential rain. In true Gravel Spirit, riders must be prepared for remote conditions with limited support.

To learn more, visit https://highintheozarks.org

Squamish is known as the “Outdoor Capital of Canada,” offering world-class climbing, mountain biking, and now gravel riding. You’ll experience amazing mountain views, large rivers, creeks as well as wide gravel Forest Service Roads and it will throw in a few hills and trail sections to add to the fun gravel riding factor.

The 2025 Sea2Sky Gravel Fondo took place in September attracted over 500 riders tackling three distances (25 km, 50 km, and 90 km). Colin Kwiecinski of San Francisco won the Full Fondo in 3:06:27, leading a competitive field across the scenic gravel roads of the Squamish Valley. In the women’s category Katrina Strand was fastest in a time of 3:28:44.

2025 Sea2Sky Men’s Full Fondo 90km Top 5

1^st - Colin Kwiecinski (San Francisco) 3:06:27
2^nd - Michael Stone (North Vancouver) 3:09:29
3^rd - Dean Brandt (Port Moody, Team of 2) 3:10:08
4^th - Sam Sharp (Vancouver) 3:11:41
5^th - Eric Pan (Seattle) 3:12:51

2025 Sea2Sky Women’s Full Fondo 90km Top 5

1st – Katrina Strand (Vancouver) — 3:28:44
2nd – Sarah Clegg (North Vancouver) — 3:34:12
3rd – Jennifer MacMillan (Squamish) — 3:39:05
4th – Emily Adams (Seattle) — 3:42:51
5th – Lisa Howard (Vancouver) — 3:47:33

The 2026 event offer 3 distances for all abilities:

Piccolo / Beginner Fondo (Approx. 25km)
Start and Finish in the Squamish
Optimal for Beginner level cyclist

Medio Fondo (Approx. 50km)
Start and Finish in in the Squamish
Optimal for Beginner to Intermediate level cyclist

Full Fondo (Approx. 90km)
Start and Finish in the Squamish
Optimal Intermediate to expert level cyclist

They could make the Sea2Sky Full Fondo even longer but given that it is late season we will have a maximum distance of around 90km but just so you know the full Fondo has a lot of climbing so it’s not as easy as the distance would make it seem.

Prize categories include men and women, individual, teams of 2 and teams of 4 participants.

Registration includes a post celebration including race meal and cold beer, Music and a Souvenir socks and tons of draw prizes!

Late September in Squamish can be cool and wet—plan gear accordingly. Squamish is 1 hour from Vancouver International Airport. Accommodation fills quickly around event dates.

Spots are limited, so early sign-up is recommended!

2026 British Columbia Gravel Provincial Championships

Cycling BC is excited to partner with Tri 1 Events to host the inaugural Gravel Provincial Championships during the 2026 Sea2Sky Gravel Fondo. Athletes will be separated into their respective age categories during the medal ceremony, and further details will be included in the technical guide (scheduled for release in January 2026). Learn more about Cycling BC's Championship events here.

Cycling BC has sanctioned these events as Mass-Participation events. Please register through this system so we can ensure all athletes complete the required waivers and documentation. During registration, participants will be prompted to either sign the non-member waiver (which activates liability coverage) or acknowledge their existing annual Cycling BC membership. All athletes, organizers, and event staff are expected to adhere to the Cycling BC Code of Conduct.

For more information, please visit: https://sea2skyfondo.com

The 2026 Chino Grinder will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in Chino Valley, Arizona. Arizona’s oldest gravel grinder, often called one of the toughest gravel races in the West.

This five-day event for racers and adventurers who wanted to test their limits and push beyond their own boundaries.

It’s an all-inclusive cycling vacation. Each night at camp everyone celebrated with the gravel family. With fully equipped campsites, campfires, and entertainment, resting and recharging for the next day’s adventure.

The race started in Bend on Wednesday, Stage 1 went south to Gilchrist, then Stage 2 west to Oakridge, Stage 3 was the Oakridge Downhill, then Stage 4 north to McKenzie before returning to Bend on Sunday on Stage 5. 

Adventurers put in more than 350 miles with near perfect riding conditions over the five days.  “It went really well. It was one of our best events we’ve ever done,” said organizer Chad Sperry,“The courses were outstanding and we hosted most talented racers from around the world. It was a really great year.”  

24-year-old Cameron Jones from New Zealand was fastest overall in a time 17:21:59 seconds and 31-year-old Sofia Gomez Villafane from Midway, Utah was fastest in a time of 20:09.14.  

Local riders Benjamin Farver (Argonaut Cycles) from Bend won the men's open category in a time of 20:04:51. Michael Claudio from Bend won the Men’s Masters (45-59) category in a time of 19:47.06 and Kylee Rood (Goldilocks Grvl) from Bend won the Open Non-Binary category in 26:23:17

All of this further elevates the spirit of gravel and the camaraderie it inspires, and solidifies the Oregon Trail Grinder as one of the best gravel events in the world.

Pro-Elite Women

1 Sofia Gomez Villafane (Specialized off-road) Midway, Utah  20:09:14
2 Cécile Lejeune (CCB p/b LLG) Tucson, AZ  +2:35
3 Sarah Sturm (Specialized/SRAM/Rapha) Durango, CO  +13.00
4 Morgan Aguirre (PAS Racing x Orbea) Girona, ESP  +43:08
5 Danni Shrosbree (CASTELLI SOG/ ARGON 18) Girona, ESP  +1:15:41
6 Serena Gordon (Sunnyside Sports / SMCC) Bend, OR  +1:56:57
7 Rebecca Fahringer Bend, OR  +2:02:22                

Pro-Elite Men

1 Cameron Jones (Scott Sports USA) Nelson, NZL    17:21:59     
2 Skyler Taylor (Above Category / Sarto / Q36.5)San Anselmo, CA   +2:18
3 Robert Britton (FACTOR - OVRLND pb Castelli SOG) Victoria, CAN +10:16
4 Payson McElveen (Allied Cycle Works) Durango, CO  +19:13
5 Griffin Easter (OpiCure Gravel p/b Orbea and Castelli SOG) Park City, UT +25:56
6 Michael van den Ham (Giant / MVDH) Chilliwack, CAN +29:42
7 Cassius Anderson (Marin Service Course/Argonaut/Schwalbe/Castelli) Novato, CA +59:13
8 Nathan Surowie (Ink Properties Racing) Forest Hill, MD   +1:00:48
9 Matthew Wiebe (PAS Racing / Argonaut) San Francisco, CA +1:25:57
10 Chris Mehlman (Pivot Cycles)Colorado Springs, CO +1:33:02

Register Now for the 2026 Oregon Trail Gravel Stage Race

The undisputed “Grand Tour of Gravel”, the Oregon Trail Gravel Stage Race is an unforgettable experience that takes cyclists through stunning Oregon scenery in the heart of the Cascades, an all-inclusive Bike Vacation this July 8-12, 2026.

Over the course of five days, participants will ride through a variety of terrain, from dense forests to wide open valleys, enjoying nature at its finest. This event is not only a test of physical endurance, but also an opportunity to connect with the local community, experience their hospitality, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the region.

Each night, the camp becomes a place of celebration and camaraderie, creating unforgettable memories. Starting and finishing in the outdoor mecca of Bend, Oregon participants will ride 250 to 350 miles of Oregon’s most scenic and breath-taking gravel roads, with fully-supported fireside campouts and entertainment to rest and refuel each night.

Riders have the option to pick the following categories:

- Pioneer is around 350 miles with around 30,000 feet of climbing
- Settler is around 250 miles with around 15,000 feet of climbing
- Iron Horse- e-bike category doing the Settler distance
- Tag Team- Tackle the Pioneer distance with one of your best friends and alternate days of riding
- Buddy Package- sign-up with a friend and get the best deal possible- each rider can pick their desired distance (Pioneer or Settler), you get a discount on entry, and a free VIP tent package.

The team at Breakaway Promotions will take care of all of the details and support you on your journey- from tents to gourmet food to professional massage and nightly entertainment - you'll come away sore, accomplished, and with unmatched tales and friendship from the trail.

There is a HUGE range of additional options to suit everyone’s needs including VIP tent service, Extra travel Bin, RV Parking, Post Ride Massages and Meal packages for all your friends and family!

This “Grand Tour of Gravel” is the adventure of a lifetime!

The event is already 70% full, so register now to secure a place!

To learn more, visit https://www.oregontrailgravelgrinder.com

The 2026 edition is scheduled for October 11, 2026 marking its 9^th edition since the inaugural race in 2018. It’s also rated as one of the Best Gravel Events in the Mid-Atlantic.

Last year’s event, held drew more than 800 riders from 28 states, showcasing the Susquehanna River Valley as a premier cycling destination in Pennsylvania. 

Routes wind through the Susquehanna River Valley, forest hills, and idyllic farm country during peak fall foliage. Riders can tailor their experience, from ultra-endurance challenges to social “party pace” rides.

Participants can choose distances of; 30, 50, 97, 101, 130 and 200 miles. You can also start on Saturday, finish on Sunday, and join friends for a sleepover in between in R.B. Winter State Park after 23 miles. Your sleepover gear and food will be shuttled to the campsite.

The 130 mile route the full send unPAved-SRV course. Whether riders are pushing themselves in the Race for Whoopie Pies or pushing the limits of their Pierogi Pace they will understand the origins of “Easy On The Eyes. Hard On The Legs.” With 13 notable climbs, 100 miles of unPAved roads, and 59 miles of timed racing segments the Full-130 course will ask much of riders and reward them with amazing vistas, 7 aid stations, miles of tree tunnels, and flowing descents of PA gravel.

For the ultra-cyclists who have proven they have what it takes to ride many miles, lots of hills, through the night, and be self-sufficient the whole time, they can take on the Big Lick 200 mile challenge which contains 17,000’ elevation of can take up 24 hours to complete!

Cash purses are offered for racers, but the event also caters to riders seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure. The Whoopie Pie Racers will ride a 130-mile course and race across 4 segments, adding up to 59 miles. Their combined time across those segments will be used to determine the Champions of the Whoopie Pies.

Expect rolling climbs and sustained climbs. October in Pennsylvania can bring crisp mornings, mild afternoons, and occasional rain.

The 2025 unPAved of the Susquehanna River Valley 130 mile Elite race winners were Andrew Dillman amd Lauren De Crescenzo. Previously, all winners raced for quirky prizes like whoopie pies; 2025 marked a more competitive shift. Adding prize money elevated unPAved from a community festival ride to a more serious competitive gravel race. Cash purses help draw elite riders, aligning unPAved with other marquee gravel events like Unbound Gravel and Big Sugar.

2025 UnPAved of the Susquehanna River Valley Men’s Elite Podium

1 Andrew Dillman
2 Bryan Gomez
3 Zach Nehr

2025 UnPAved of the Susquehanna River Valley Women’s Elite Podium

1 Lauren De Crescenzo
2 Flavia Oliveira Parks
3 Whitney Allison

It’s more than just a race — it’s a weekend festival with food, music, and camaraderie. The DONEpaved PARTY on the Sunday is where New Trail Beer, Endo Tunies and Birch Beer start flowing, food starts being served, expo opens up, stories of the day commence!

The Lewisburg Fall Festival covers 10 city blocks, including Market Street, and is free to all participants. The Festival hosts over 6,000 attendees from across Pennsylvania and 1,000 unPAved participants from the US and Canada.

Lewisburg is a small town — lodging fills quickly, so early booking is essential!

To learn more, visit https://unpavedpennsylvania.com

This event moved to new home in Carlton, Oregon, just 45 minutes from PDX, is a haven for gravel cyclists and offers a variety of designated gravel routes from local NPO Cycle Yamhill County. There were two routes, the 60 mile Big Squatch that contained 4,976 feet of climbing and the 40 mile Little Squatch  that includes 2,897 feet of climbing. 

The event moved to new home in Carlton, Oregon, just 45 minutes from PDX, is a haven for gravel cyclists and offers a variety of designated gravel routes from local NPO Cycle Yamhill County. There were two routes, the 60 mile Big Squatch that contained 4,976 feet of climbing and the 40 mile Little Squatch  that includes 2,897 feet of climbing. 

Kristina Gray (Dialed Cycling Team) was the fastest women at Big Squatch (3:34:51), nearly 27 mins ahead of Laura Rosema in second and Christine Holland (Kihei, HI Fast, Fun, Nice) in third place.

In the men's Big Squatch, Aris Sophocles (ThirstyBear Cycling) was fastest in a time of 3:04:14 who attacked in the finale finishing 51s up on Robert Cummings (Team S&M). Carl Loeffler (Cyclized) was third nearly 7 minutes behind the leading pair.

Laura Mullen (Dialed Cycling Lab) was the fastest women in Little Squatch (2:10:39). She was well ahead of with Marcella Canelo in second 14 minutes behind and Kim Mabee in third another minute behind. Chris Hanel and Scott Carroll from (Dialed Cycling Team) worked together at Little Squatch in the breakaway with Chris fastest in 1:49:49 and Scott and Daniel Handorff (The Bonk Collective) in second and third some 3 minutes behind.

The Champions were awarded custom Pint glasses and trophies. After the ride, participants enjoyed a complimentary beverage and post-event fun including LIVE music, podium awards and a raffle in Oakridge.

Register Now for the 2026 Sasquatch Duro

Carlton, Oregon, offers stunning gravel cycling through rolling vineyards, lush forests, and serene farmland, on quiet roads, from smooth gravel to rugged paths, perfect for adventure close to PDX!

It's an adventurous gravel ride with scenic views of the Willamette Valley and occasional wildlife sightings enhance the experience.

Carlton, Oregon, 45 minutes from PDX, is a haven for gravel cyclists and offers a variety of designated gravel routes from local NPO Cycle Yamhill County, which you will be racing by the day of the event. The community is perfect for a weekend getaway at Visit Carlton and Visit McMinnville, the largest town 15 minutes from Carlton. Please note: no camping is available in the area.

There are two routes of 40 and 67 miles. The 40 mile route contains 2,897 feet of climbing and the 60 mile route contains 4,976 feet of climbing.

There is a mass start with a slow rollout of Carlton for 3 miles on quiet roads before timing begins. The routes continue north with Mount Richmond looming in the distance.

e-Bike are welcome with with a 15 Minute head start. 2 age groups per gender and a lot of fun! Only Class 1 e-bikes are allowed. No others and max capacity is 50 for this event. Aid stations, include PB and J, cookies, Hammer Nutrition products, along with Gluten Free bread and more.

Afterwards, relax, put your bike away and hang out with friends with a complimentary beverage and post-event fun, raffle and podium awards in Carlton.

Awards include Top 3 pint glasses for all age groups in all distances, plus overall awards for each distance. Custom awards will be presented to the top 3 finishers in each category (15-24, 25-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74 and 75+ plus Non-Binary and Elite categories).

Champion awards include custom Pint glasses and overall Long and Short course trophies’.

Suggested Tires of 38mm to 45mm and suitable for cross bike, gravel bike or hardtail mountain bike.

Registration includes custom Sasquatch Duro tall socks, live music and awards after the ride at 2pm.

The Coast Range Sasquatch's are watching you! Remember you’re lower on the food chain!

For more information, please visit: https://www.mudslingerevents.com/sasquatch-duro or click the button below to register now.

Get ready to experience one the most unique gravel rides born in the USA. It’s perfect for the “real adventure seekers” out there. With 75% gravel, you can ride at your own pace or distance and enjoy the scenic views.

You’ll ride through grand southern plantations, oak canopies, farmland and pecan orchards on its totally unique and iconic red clay and dirt. While a good majority of the course is shaded by stunningly beautiful oak tree and moss canopies, there are long sections that will be blasted with full sun.

March is the BEST TIME to visit Florida!

The weather begins to shift from the cooler winter months, making way for the warmth of spring. Average temperatures range from a comfortable 50-70°F in North Florida. Your body will appreciate you applying sunscreen on all exposed skin. Get ready to enjoy the Sunshine State’s great outdoors.

What makes the Dirty Pecan special isn’t just the distances or the eclectic mix of riders—it’s the spirit of the event. There are no podiums or trophies, only bragging rights and the satisfaction of having survived. It’s a celebration of everything that makes Jefferson County unique: the gorgeous landscapes, the unpredictable terrain, and the undeniable charm of small-town hospitality.  And, all proceeds are donated to 4-H; our favourite charity. 

Dirty Pecan is great opening ride in warm weather for you to test your form ahead of the whole 2026 Gravel season!

Six “Remote Routes” for all Abilities

There are six distances of 40, 60, 80, 100, 150 and 200 miles on offer for all abilities of gravel riders.

The roads along the majority of the course are sparsely populated. There will be many miles of riding with no civilization or people in sight. You are on your own so be prepared for anything, self-sufficiency reins and there is no mobile coverage in most places. A pre-loaded GPS cycling computer with your chosen route is a “must have”. Old school maps won’t cut it. You can download the routes from Ride with GPS.

Water stops and convenience stores are marked on the map for each route. But there are “no guarantees” water will be available, or that stores will “be open”.

If you need a juice box and a hug every 20 miles, this is not the ride for you, please stay home!

Celebrating 11 Years!

In the rolling countryside of North Florida, where pecan orchards stretch lazily under the warm Southern sun, a wild idea was born by event director Betsy Barfield and her wingman. It was part genius, part insanity, and entirely fuelled by a love of bikes, dirt, and the nuttiest scenery the region had to offer.

This is the story of the Dirty Pecan Gravel Ride—a ride as gritty as the roads and as nutty as its name suggests.

Today, the Dirty Pecan Gravel Ride has become a North Florida institution. It’s equal parts punishment and pleasure, a test of willpower and a love letter to the land. Riders leave with sore muscles, dirty bikes, and hearts full of pecan-fueled joy.

So, if you ever find yourself in North Florida with a bike, a sense of adventure, and a questionable relationship with pain, join the Dirty Pecan. It’s not just a ride—it’s a rite of passage. And remember: the dirt washes off, but the stories last forever.

The Dirty Pecan attracts all types of riders; hard-core cyclists aiming for Strava glory, casual cruisers looking for Instagram-worthy moments, and locals who just wanted an excuse to eat more dirty pecans i.e. – chocolate covered pecans!

Cyclists from across the USA flock to Monticello, lured by tales of epic views, camaraderie, and the legendary post-ride pecan snacks!

The HQ is located at Jefferson County Extension Office just outside Monticello.

Block Hotel Rooms in 2 Locations

Whether you stay in Monticello/Jefferson County or Leon County, you will be close to ride start.  Also, area restaurants are delectable and a treat.

For more information, please visit: https://www.dirtypecan.com/accommodations

Campers Welcome

Jefferson County Extension Office has RV, Tent and Car Camping available for 2 nights for just $40. There is ample room!

RVs are in a separate space from tents/cars.  Mostly shaded and on a level grass field. No size limits on the RVs. Please know this IS dry camping so please plan accordingly. 

There is a shower house with 2 showers for men and 2 showers for women.  Hot water runs out quickly.  It has toilets and sinks. Fresh well water is available for drinking and filling water bottles. It also has 2 port-o-lets at the bath-house location.

Camping can be purchased during registration or at any other time.

A huge camp fire awaits you hardy campers!

Benefitting 4-H Kids!

In the last 10 years Dirty Pecan has donated $200,000.00 to 4-H.  

With the proceeds from Dirty Pecan 2025 (our 10th anniversary) we donated $30,000.00 to create ’The Dirty Pecan Endowment for Jefferson County 4-H'.  This endowment is managed by the University of Florida.  We are so grateful to each of you, our Dirty Pecan Family, for participating.  

Hundreds of Jefferson County 4-H kids have attended overnight 4-H camp via Dirty Pecan.

Dirty Pecan donated $10,000, restricted to 4-H Camp Cherry Lake, to get the ball rolling to renovate the entire 12 acres of 4-H Camp Cherry Lake.  And, that ball is gathering velocity.  

This energy brought about a $900,000 Florida Legislative Budget Request funding in 2024 for 4-H Camp Cherry Lake.  Carrying the weight was FL Representative Allison Tant and FL Senator Keith Perry.  

In 2025, FL Representative Allison Tant carried the ball for a $5,600,000 (yes that is million) Public Education Capitol Outlay request for 4-H Camp Cherry Lake.  That was funded to the full.  

FL Representative Allison Tant has filed another PECO funding request for $5,000,000 for 2026.  

You are part of this phenomenon thru your Dirty Pecan sponsorship, registration and purchase of SWAG. 

Dirty Pecan is a not-for-profit with IRS 501c3 designation. 

The event is sponsored, in part, by Jefferson County Commission and Florida Power and Light.  So many more sponsor – please check them out on our DirtyPecan.com site.

Register NOW to secure a place!

Registration is only $25 and includes some free SWAG!

You do have the opportunity to purchase, camping, chocolate covered Pecans, and post ride meals during registration.

Carrabba's Vegetarian Rigatoni Martina with Salad and Carrabba's Lasagne - the meat variety are served hot after your ride.

Places are limited to 700 riders! Last year’s ride and accommodation sold out in advance, so register NOW to secure your place!

For more information please visit: https://www.dirtypecan.com or click the button below to register now.

Please note: the weather in North Florida in March is typical fairly dry. However, in the event of storm the wet dirt roads can become very difficult to ride in places. In this situation, participants will be provided 34, 55, 72 and 94 miles mostly paved alternative routes. Full details and GPS downloads will be made available to all participants in advance.

Undulating hills, scenic canyons, and the Quitaque Peaks provide dramatic backdrops. Gravel and dirt roads with unpredictable terrain. Expect sustained climbs, steep grades and fast descents especially on the 115-mile course. Early March in Texas can bring cool mornings, mild afternoons, and sudden wind shifts.

The event is more than a race — it’s a celebration of endurance, resilience, and local history. Every pedal stroke is framed as carrying the “legacy of survival and resilience” of the valley.

The Valley of Tears Gravel Race offers a substantial $26,000 prize purse, split between male and female elite riders. In its inaugural year (2024), the purse was even doubled last-minute to $52,000, making it one of the richest gravel races in the U.S., drawing top pros like Keegan Swenson and Sofia Gomez Villafañe.

Few gravel races offer purses this high, positioning Valley of Tears alongside marquee events like Unbound Gravel and Big Sugar.

In its second edition in 2025, the Valley of Tears race captivated participants and spectators alike, offering a substantial prize purse of $26,000 shared between the elite fields. Elite men and women started separately, but both faced the formidable weather conditions that transformed the sandy washes and steep climbs of the Tampico Tundra into a sticky, claret-colored mud pit.

The drastic shift in weather was evident over the course of athe event. The inaugural dirt criterium on Friday welcomed warm spring temperatures of 76°F, but by Saturday, temperatures plummeted 40 degrees, with winds gusting over 30 mph and rain transitioning from sleet to snow.

Villafañe, representing Specialized Off-road, demonstrated her versatility by winning both the dirt criterium and the gravel race. After a commanding performance in the criterium, where she broke away early to claim victory, she continued her winning streak with a solo effort in the gravel race, completing the shortened course in 2:39:35. Emily Newsom (PAS Racing) finished in second place, 4:55 behind, while Crystal Anthony secured third, crossing the line six minutes later.

"I made a solo move six miles in after the now infamous gravel limestone pit and it stuck until the end," Villafañe shared on social media. "I questioned my choice a bit in the massive headwind sections, but we finally had a race where it was a separate start and no drafting between fields, which was very sick."

In the elite men's race, Mock, riding for the Bear National Team, seized victory from a lead group of three. The 24-year-old from Wisconsin was unaware that the course had been shortened, leading to an exhilarating finish as he sprinted across the line. French rider Hugo Drechou (Numéro 31 par Café du Cycliste) took second place, while Michael Garrison (MGR p/b NICH SpeedClub) finished third.

"Got in a good break, and as I was rolling into town, I guess I got a bit excited through the finish line and thought, ‘Why not sprint to the line, just in case?’ Turns out it worked when they shortened the original course due to weather," Mock explained on Instagram. "Would’ve loved to battle it out more with the guys, but a win’s a win and I’m loving it!"

The Valley of Tears race also marked the opening round of USA Cycling's Junior Gravel National Series, featuring five races across the U.S. with scoring available in four categories. Carter Lembke won the men's 17-18 junior division in 2:03:38, narrowly beating Alex Snider in the 15-16 division, while Sara Shannon claimed victory in the women's 17-18 junior division with a time of 2:30:52.

2025 Valley of Tears Elite Men Top 10

1 Daxton Mock 02:17:01
2 Hugo Drechou +00:01
3 Michael Garrison +00:02
4 Russell Finsterwald +02:17
5 Adam Roberge +02:19
6 Torbjørn Andre Røed +02:19
7 Chase Wark +02:19
8 Tobin Ortenblad +03:11
9 John Borstelmann +03:27
10 Dylan Johnson +03:38

2025 Valley of Tears Elite Women Top 10

1 Sofia Gomez Villafañe 02:39:35
2 Emily Newsom +04:50
3 Crystal Anthony +10:27
4 Cecily Decker +11:50
5 Axelle Dubau-Prevot +15:13
6 Lauren Stephens +19:42
7 Ellory Clason +23:24
8 Erin Reedy +30:29
9 Maire Noonan +30:53
10 Terry Moore +35:03

Turkey in Texas is a small town that triples in population during the event, creating a festival-like atmosphere, lodging and travel arrangements should be made early.

With participants ranging in age from 1 to 92, Life Time welcomed over 5,000 riders from all 50 U.S. states, 2 territories, and 47 countries to Emporia – the largest event start line to date.

In addition to record-setting participation, new course record times were set in the XL (350-mile), 200 and 100 mile races.

The 350-mile XL event, in its fifth edition, had records set in both the men’s and women’s races, setting a new bar for endurance and performance in one of the longest gravel races in the world. Rob Britton crossed the line in an incredible time of 17:49:51 which was 2:15:45 faster than the previous best. Heather Jackson beat the previous women’s record by 1:27:18, finishing in a total time of 20:57:57. Not only did the XL race break speed records, but the endurance epic saw its youngest rider to ever complete the 350 miles. At just 21 years old, Izabella Slosberg of San Luis Obispo, California, crossed the finish line in 27:39:11.

The marquee 200-mile race also saw new north course records for both the men’s and women’s events. Karolina Migon set a new women’s record with an unprecedented pace of 20.12mph.

Cameron Jones also set a new men’s record with an average pace of 23.49mph.

Just like the 200-mile event, the 100-mile race saw new north course records for both male and female categories. Tiffany Cromwell set the new women’s record with a swift average speed of 21.76mph. Clocking an average speed of 23.23mph, Hayden Christian crossed the line first in the men’s race.

This year’s event marked a major milestone in gender representation, with a 44% increase in total female participants year over year. With 25% of the 2025 field being female, UNBOUND Gravel continues to foster inclusivity in the gravel cycling community.

“Life Time UNBOUND Gravel is a beacon for the gravel community and this year we were able to bring it directly into fan’s homes with nearly seven hours of live coverage of the elite 200-mile race,” said Michelle Duffy, Vice President of Marketing for Life Time Events. “Across the board, 2025 set a new standard and we can’t wait to welcome the world back to Emporia for the 20th edition next year.”

In addition to the XL, 200 and 100-mile races, cyclists of all ages and experience levels lined up on Saturday morning for 50 and 25-mile events, united by a shared spirit of adventure and endurance.

2025 Men’s Elite 200-mile Unbound Top 10

1 Cameron Jones (AUS) 8:37:09
2 Simon Pellaud (SUI) | Li Ning Star +0:42
3 Torbjørn Røed (NOR) +5:22
4 Mads Würtz Schmidt (DEN)  PAS Racing  +5:24
5 Brendan Johnston (AUS) +10:34
6 Ramon Sinkeldam (NED) +11:06
7 Keegan Swenson (USA) +11:59
8 Ian Boswell (USA) +12:00
9 Jasper Ockeloen (NED) +12:00
10 Tobias Kongstad (DEN) Amager Cykle Ring  +12:45

2025 Women’s Elite 200-mile Unbound Top 10

1 Karolina Migon (POL) | PAS Racing 10:03:54
2 Lauren Stephens (USA)  +5:12
3 Cecily Decker (USA)  +7:45
4 Ruth Winder (USA) +10:01
5 Sarah Sturm (USA) +12:20
6 Sofia Gomez Villafañe (ARG/USA) +13:05
7 Emily Newsom (USA) +14:42
8 Flavia Oliveira Parks (BRA) +15:30
9 Rose Grant (USA) +16:12

2026 UNBOUND Gravel

2026 marks the 20^th Anniversary of the World’s Premier Gravel Event, the spirit of an event that began with 34 participants in 2006.

Being so popular Unbound uses a lottery system for entries, a random selection lottery process determines who will participate. Roughly 4,000 riders are accepted each year, chosen from tens of thousands of applicants.

The 2026 Unbound Gravel lottery results were announced in November 2025. Thousands of riders were selected to participate across the 25-, 50-, 100-, 200-, and XL (350-mile) categories. The lottery is the main entry pathway for the event, which will take place May 29–30, 2026 in Emporia, Kansas.

The 2026 routes will be released with detailed maps, GPS files, and checkpoint info closer to race day. Expect rolling hills, chunky gravel, creek crossings, and wide-open prairie. Each distance has strict time cutoffs at checkpoints to ensure rider safety. ROUVY offers official Unbound Gravel 2026 routes for indoor training.

Kansas spring can bring extreme heat, thunderstorms, or high winds. Riders must be self-sufficient; GPS files are provided but mechanicals and flats are common. Long stretches without aid stations require careful fueling and hydration planning.

To learn more, visit https://www.unboundgravel.com

The elite group set off together with Floyd Landis having a brief foray at the front. But just 20 miles into the race, Villafañe attacked and was never seen again by the chasing women's group.

In the front group were Whitney Allison, Siena Hermon, Courtney Sherwell, Flavia Oliveira Parks and Amy Cymerman.

Courtney Sherwell (Santa Cruz SRAM) and Whitney Allison (Bike Sports) pulled due to crashes near Hodges, with Allison having to get medical attention.

Flavia Oliveira Parks (Excel Sports p/b Specialized) who recently finished 12th at The Growler was second around half a hour behind and Amy Cymerman was another 11 minutes behind in third place.

"I liked the new course, I mean the time was still long. I had a worse time going out with the strong headwinds, on the way back I had friends," Villafañe said.

Villafañe has now won all seven BWR events in which she has raced winning the BWR Arizona title for a third time earlier this season. She has now overhauled Peter Stetina's six BWR wins.

2025 BWR Men's Elite Top 10

1 Matthew Beers (Specialized Off-road) 04:57:08

2 Peter Stetina (Canyon) 00:09:31

3 Alexey Vermeulen (ENVE) 00:12:26

4 Jonas Woodruff 00:14:35

5 Petr Vakoc (Canyon CFR) 00:14:36

6 Truman Glasgow (ENVE-DNA Cycling) Row 5 - Cell 2

7 Daxton Mock (Bear/Orange Seal) 00:15:43

8 Russell Finsterwald (Trek Driftless) 00:16:02

9 Julien Gagne (Devinci) 00:16:05

10 Lance Haidet (Specialized/SRAM/Velocio) 00:16:56

Register Now for the 15^th Anniversary BWR California

The 2026 Belgian Waffle Ride California returns to the coast for a spectacular weekend at the Del Mar Polo Fields at Surf Sports Park, where rolling tarmac meets raw terrain in the Hell of the North (County).

Following the season opener in Arizona, BWR CA carries the heaviest weight of the four events that make up the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, before the series heads to Utah and Montana.

This year’s BWR CA will once again push limits, fuel community, and celebrate the beautiful suffering that defines the unroad spirit.

The BWR Festival 2026: The Unroad Cycling Bash in Southern California

From May 2–3 2026, the Belgian Waffle Ride Festival will transform the Del Mar Polo Fields into a sprawling playground for endurance enthusiasts, families, and fans. With live music, beer, food, and over 65 exhibitors, this is the hub of cycling culture on the West Coast.

It’s not just a race—it’s a weekend-long celebration of the endurance lifestyle, a gathering of adventurers, dreamers, and gravel-grinders who all share one thing: a happy disrespect for the usual.

Day 1: Saturday, May 2, 2026 – The Gran Roadie-Oh & Unroad Expo

Saturday sets the stage with The Gran Roadie-Oh, a Gran Fondo-style road ride for cyclists of all levels. Riders can choose from multiple distances to suit their appetite for speed, scenery, and suffering:

100-mile Century – A full-gas coastal classic for those chasing glory
100 km Metric Century – A challenging route blending beauty and bite
50 km Fun Ride – A spirited spin with plenty of camaraderie

Feeling ambitious? Take on the Dubbel Header Challenge—ride the Roadie-Oh on Saturday and the BWR on Sunday to earn true Belgian bragging rights.

Meanwhile, the Unroad Expo will be in full swing at Surf Sports Park, featuring brands, artisans, and partners offering the latest in bikes, gear, and lifestyle. Enjoy the food court, local brews, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere as you prepare for the main event.

Day 2: Sunday, May 3, 2026 – The 15th Annual Belgian Waffle Ride

Sunday brings the main event—the fifteenth running of the Belgian Waffle Ride California. The original unroad race that started it all returns with a brand-new coastal course mixing smooth tarmac, gnarly gravel, sandy sectors, and steep climbs.

Whether you take on the Waffle, Wafer, or Wanna, you’ll be part of one of the most storied and spirited cycling events in the world—where world-class pros and weekend warriors line up side by side to suffer gloriously under the Southern California sun.

At the finish, cold beer, hot waffles, and cheering fans await—all part of the grand BWR tradition of celebration and shared endurance.

New Course: This year we will remove the pinch places that caught some riders off guard and make sure the flow of the course doesn’t get impeded!

Last Year’s Course Highlights (this year will be different):

Waffle – 106.5-Miles/172-Kilometers
~7,500 Feet of Climbing
25 Unroad sectors with Flemish names
40% Unroad
7 feed zones

Wafer – 60-Miles/97-Kilometers
~3,750 Feet of Climbing
16 Unroad sectors
59% Unroad
Five feed zones

Wanna – 32.7-Miles/53-Kilometers
~2,500 Feet of Climbing
3 Unroad sectors
32% Unroad
2 feed zones

Rider Perks:

Every rider will receive a BWR musette bag from Neversecond that contains essential race-day items and special swag:

- BWR x Neversecond Swag bag with tons of products
- BWR Bucks for use with MUMU, Almsthre, QEJA Socks & Neversecond or
  a BWR Branded memento
- Race Number and RFID Tag (for official finishing time)
- Pre- and Post-Race Waffles, Coffee & Beverages
- Beer
- Finisher’s Trophy Beer
- Bragging Rights
- Podium Recognition for the Top 3 in each age category for Waffle & Wafer, and Top 5 Overall

The category races with the race – Q/KOM, Q/KOD, Q/KOS are not open to the elite field. Amateurs will be vying to win these jerseys.

T-shirts and BWR branded gear are available at registration and at the Mumu booth at the expo.

For more information please visit: https://www.belgianwaffleride.bike or click the button below to register now.