Gravel Cycling Events Directory

Gravel cycling bridges the gap between road and mountain biking, taking riders on unpaved roads, forest service paths, and dirt trails. Unlike road cycling, which focuses on smooth pavement, gravel riding embraces rough terrain but generally avoids the technical singletrack common in mountain biking. Gravel riding typically offers a more adventurous, laid-back atmosphere than road racing, with events often emphasizing exploration and community over pure competition. One of the biggest appeals to me is the ability to get away from vehicle traffic and explore the roads less traveled! 

Essential equipment includes:

• A gravel bike or cyclocross bike (some events allow mountain bikes)
• Wider tires (minimum 32mm, typically 38-45mm)
• Helmet (mandatory for most events)
• Hydration system (bottles or hydration pack)
• Nutrition (energy gels, bars) 
• Basic repair kit (spare tube, tire levers, mini-pump)
• Bike maintenance equipment (chain lube, multi-tool)
• Navigation device (many events provide GPS routes)
• Weather-appropriate clothing 

Here's a list of preparations that have helped me before!

1. Train on similar terrain - spend at least 8 weeks riding on gravel roads and hills that match your race course
2. Get your bike serviced 2 weeks before - ensure tires, brakes, and drivetrain are in perfect condition
3. Test your race-day nutrition during training - practice eating and drinking while riding
4. Know your course - study the route, elevation profile, and aid station locations
5. Pack essential tools - carry a spare tube, mini-pump, multi-tool, and quick link for chain repairs
6. Check the weather forecast - prepare appropriate clothing layers and adjust tire pressure accordingly
7. Arrive early on race day (90+ minutes) - allows time for parking, registration, bike check, and proper warm-up
8. Start conservatively - maintain a sustainable pace for the first third of the race, especially on climbs

While dedicated gravel bikes are designed to be more stable than road bikes but more efficient than mountain bikes, perfect for covering long distances on varied surfaces, you can absolutely participate using either a road bike or mountain bike, depending on the course. Road bikes can handle light gravel if equipped with wider tires (at least 32mm), though they may struggle on rougher terrain. Mountain bikes work well but might feel slower on smoother sections due to weight and tire resistance. A typical gravel bike features drop handlebars like a road bike, clearance for wide tires (usually 38-50mm), and a more relaxed geometry for stability. 

Gravel events occur year-round, with peak season typically running from spring through fall in most regions. Online event directories (like gravelcyclingevents.com), local bike shops, and cycling clubs are excellent resources for finding events in your area. Spring events often offer ideal conditions with packed gravel and moderate temperatures, while summer events might require more attention to hydration and heat management. Many regions have signature events that draw riders from across the country, but there's usually a good mix of both local and destination events throughout the season. Weather and road conditions can vary significantly by region, so check historical weather data and event reviews when planning your calendar.

We recommend registering at least 2-3 months before the event date. Popular events often sell out quickly, and early registration can give you:

• Guaranteed spot in your preferred distance
• Early bird pricing discounts
• Adequate time for specific training
• Access to course preview rides and training plans

On gravelcyclingevents.com we provide a "reg:open" banner to help you know when registration is open.

We have analyzed all of the gravel races on our platform and found that most events offer multiple distance options to accommodate different fitness levels and goals. Typical distances include:

• Short course: 25-35 miles (perfect for beginners)
• Medium course: 50-65 miles (ideal for intermediate riders)
• Long course: 80-100+ miles (challenging routes for experienced cyclists) 

In most cases, each route is carefully designed to showcase the best local gravel roads and scenic landscapes.