Gravel biking blends the speed of road cycling with the adventure of mountain biking. You tackle unpaved roads, dirt paths, and mixed terrain that test your skills and endurance. The sport has grown rapidly because it delivers freedom from traffic, breathtaking landscapes, and a supportive community atmosphere. 

The USA leads the world in gravel racing culture. From Kansas prairies to Colorado mountains, American terrain creates diverse challenges that push every rider to their limits. These events welcome everyone - women, first-timers, and veterans all roll together on the same dirt roads. This inclusive spirit transforms each race into a genuine celebration of cycling passion.

Unbound Gravel (Emporia, Kansas) 

When: Late May 
Distances: Twenty-five, one hundred, two hundred, and three hundred fifty miles 

Unbound Gravel reigns as America's most legendary gravel race. The event sends you through Kansas's rolling Flint Hills on challenging dirt roads that test every aspect of your riding ability. Weather conditions shift without warning, turning this race into an ultimate endurance challenge. 

Registration operates through a lottery system. This lottery approach maintains exclusivity while building anticipation among riders worldwide. The event draws elite professionals and weekend warriors alike, creating an atmosphere that buzzes with competitive energy. 

Website: unboundgravel.com

Belgian Waffle Ride (Multiple Locations) 

When: Various dates throughout the year 
Locations: Arizona (February), California (April), Utah (May), Montana (June), North Carolina (September) 

The Belgian Waffle Ride series brings European cycling culture to American gravel roads. Each event mixes gravel, singletrack, and pavement in a challenging cocktail that keeps riders guessing. The April California event in Del Mar delivers perfect spring weather alongside stunning coastal views. 

Distances span from seventy to two hundred kilometers, making these races accessible to various skill levels. The series prioritizes enjoyment over cutthroat competition, though each event still packs serious challenges that will leave you breathless. 

Website: belgianwaffleride.bike

SBT GRVL (Steamboat Springs, Colorado) 

When: Late June 
Distances: Multiple routes from seventy-nine to one hundred seventeen miles 

Colorado's majestic mountain scenery provides the backdrop for this premium gravel experience. SBT GRVL showcases "Champagne Gravel" - smooth, fast dirt roads that let you maintain impressive speeds while soaking in spectacular alpine views. The event offers both timed recreational rides and competitive race categories. 

World-class organization and jaw-dropping mountain vistas make this race a must-do experience. The June timing delivers perfect summer conditions for tackling Colorado's demanding yet rewarding terrain. 

Website: sbtgrvl.com

Gravel Worlds (Lincoln, Nebraska) 

When: Late August 
Distances: Thirty-five, seventy-five, one hundred fifty, and three hundred miles 

This self-supported endurance challenge pushes riders to their limits with over ten thousand feet of climbing. Gravel Worlds celebrates personal achievement and community spirit over pure competition. Registration is limited to 5,000 participants, fostering an intimate atmosphere despite its massive scope. 

August heat combined with Nebraska's rolling terrain creates demanding conditions that test every element of your preparation. Both women and men face equally brutal courses that reward brilliant pacing and mental toughness above all else. 

Website: gravelworlds.com

The Mid South Gravel (Stillwater, Oklahoma) 

When: Mid-March 
Distances: Nineteen, eighty, and one hundred sixty-one kilometers 

Red clay dirt creates unique riding challenges at this early-season showdown. Weather conditions remain wildly unpredictable, adding an element of adventure to every mile. Despite these harsh conditions, the race maintains a welcoming, family-friendly vibe while delivering authentic gravel racing thrills. 

Early season timing makes this event perfect for testing your winter training gains. The shorter distances welcome newcomers to the sport, while the one 100-mile option seriously challenges seasoned gravel grinders. 

Website: midsouthgravel.com

Most major gravel events are located near regional airports, making travel straightforward for riders flying in from abroad. Rent a car to haul gear and explore the local area between rides. Many events partner with shipping services or local bike shops to handle bike transport and rentals. 

Accommodation options span from camping at race venues to comfortable hotels in nearby towns. Book accommodations early, as popular races fill local lodging months in advance. Most race locations feature excellent local bike shops for last-minute gear needs, mechanical support, and post-race celebrations with fellow riders.

Oregon hosts numerous smaller gravel events that showcase the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty. These community-driven races offer intimate experiences with stunning mountain and forest scenery. September timing provides perfect weather for exploring Oregon's diverse terrain. 

Self-supported challenges and grinder series events continue growing across the country. These grassroots races emphasize adventure over competition, creating perfect opportunities for riders seeking new experiences without intense pressure. 

The gravel racing scene continues to expand, with new events and locations appearing every year. Each race offers unique challenges and experiences that make the sport endlessly engaging for riders of all abilities.