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Best Gravel Events in the United States 2027

The United States continues to be a vibrant hub for gravel cycling, offering an unparalleled diversity of terrain and events across its vast landscape. For 2027, riders can expect an exhilarating calendar of races, endurance challenges, and bikepacking journeys that showcase the very best of American gravel.

Gravel events in United States 2027

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Why Ride Gravel in the United States?

The United States boasts an incredible array of landscapes, making it a prime destination for gravel cycling. From the red clay trails of Oklahoma to the high desert of New Mexico and the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, there's a gravel experience for every rider. The sheer scale of the country allows for an extensive network of unpaved roads, fire roads, and dedicated gravel routes, providing endless opportunities for exploration and challenging rides. The gravel cycling scene here often blends competitive racing with a strong sense of community, with many events also offering a festival atmosphere, local food, and craft beer.

Terrain

The terrain for gravel cycling in the United States is as diverse as its geography. In the Midwest, particularly states like Kansas and Iowa, you'll encounter rolling farmlands crisscrossed with well-maintained gravel roads. The Flint Hills of Kansas, home to the iconic Unbound Gravel, present a truly unique challenge with their sharp, flinty rocks and undulating hills. Further west, the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and Utah offer climbs and descents on rough mountain tracks, often at high altitudes, requiring robust equipment and strong climbing legs.

Heading to the Southwest, the desert landscapes of Arizona and New Mexico provide a stark contrast, with events like the Galactic Grinder navigating through sandy washes and rocky singletrack under vast, open skies. The Northeast, with states like Vermont and New Hampshire, offers a mix of forested dirt roads, often with a good deal of elevation change, and charming historic towns as backdrops.

California is a microcosm of US gravel, featuring everything from the damp, shaded redwood forests of the north, as seen in events like the Shasta Gravel Hugger, to the arid, sun-baked routes of the south, exemplified by the Gravel and Wine event in Temecula. The Southeast, with its red dirt and punchy climbs through pine forests, presents its own distinct flavour of gravel, including events like the Kershaw Gold Rush in South Carolina.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate for gravel riding in the United States varies dramatically by region and time of year. Generally, the late spring and early autumn offer the most favourable conditions across much of the country, avoiding the extremes of summer heat and winter cold.

  • Spring (March-May): This is a prime time for gravel in the Southern states, with comfortable temperatures before the intense summer heat sets in. Events like The Mid South in Oklahoma in March can be exceptionally muddy due to spring rains, but offer a unique challenge. Further north, spring can bring unpredictable weather, including mud and cooler temperatures, as demonstrated by the Pavement Ends Gravel Race in New Hampshire in April.
  • Summer (June-August): While some regions become too hot for comfortable riding, particularly the desert Southwest, the mountainous regions and northern states flourish. Events in Colorado, like the Telluride Gravel Race in June, benefit from the cooler mountain air, though afternoon thunderstorms are common. Bikepacking adventures, such as the Cross-Washington Bikepacking Race in May, take advantage of longer daylight hours.
  • Autumn (September-November): Many consider autumn the absolute best season for gravel cycling across the vast majority of the US. The vibrant fall foliage in places like New England and the Great Lakes region, coupled with crisp temperatures, make for ideal riding. This season is particularly popular for longer endurance events.
  • Winter (December-February): Gravel cycling in winter is mostly confined to the warmer Southern states, like Florida and parts of California, or very specific, hardy events. California's mild winters allow for events like the Rock Cobbler in February, which embraces the cooler, often wet, conditions.

Best Time to Visit

To make the most of the 2027 gravel season, consider targeting specific regions for optimal conditions:

  • Early Spring (March-April): Head to the Southeast and Southwest for pleasant temperatures and drier conditions. Think events in Arizona, New Mexico, and the Carolinas.
  • Late Spring to Early Summer (May-June): The Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and lower elevation mountainous areas become ideal. This is a fantastic time for events in states like Michigan, Iowa, and Washington.
  • Mid-Summer (July-August): Focus on the high elevations of the Rockies in Colorado, Montana, and Idaho to escape the heat. Alternatively, the cool, forested routes of New England offer a respite.
  • Autumn (September-October): This is arguably the best overall time to experience US gravel, with prime conditions across nearly all regions. The stunning fall colours add an extra dimension to riding in places like Vermont and Wisconsin.

Event Highlights for 2027

The 2027 calendar promises another stellar year for gravel enthusiasts. Here are some of the standout events that should be on every rider's radar:

  • Unbound Gravel (Kansas, May 30, 2027): Still the pinnacle of gravel racing for many, Unbound Gravel in the Flint Hills of Kansas remains a true test of grit and endurance. Registration for 2027 will undoubtedly be highly competitive, so keen riders should prepare early. Expect challenging conditions, from deep mud to relentless winds, but an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. This year, watch out for potential course tweaks and an even fiercer battle at the front as top pros continue to flock to this iconic event.
  • The Mid South (Oklahoma, March 12, 2027): Kicking off the early season with a bang, The Mid South in Stillwater, Oklahoma, is renowned for its infamous red clay roads. This event offers a vibrant community atmosphere alongside a tough course that can turn into a mud-fest with rain, making it an unforgettable experience. Keep an eye on early registration for 2027, as this event sells out quickly due to its popularity and unique challenges.
  • Gravel Locos (Texas, May 24, 2027): For a proper taste of Texas gravel, look no further than Gravel Locos in Duffau. This event offers a fantastic blend of challenging routes through rural Texas landscapes and a strong community spirit. It's a brilliant mid-season option for those looking for a tough ride followed by excellent post-race festivities. With its late May date, expect warm to hot conditions, making hydration and pacing crucial.
  • SBT GRVL (Colorado, June 27, 2027): Set in the stunning Colorado Rockies around Steamboat Springs, SBT GRVL offers a high-altitude gravel experience with breathtaking views and significant climbing. This event has rapidly grown in stature and provides multiple route options, catering to a wide range of abilities. For 2027, the focus will remain on delivering a world-class event in a beautiful, demanding setting.
  • Arkansas Graveler (Arkansas, October 6, 2026 - note: this is a late 2026 event, but an early call for 2027 planning): While technically a 2026 event, the Arkansas Graveler, a multi-day unsupported bikepacking journey through the Ozarks, is one to plan for well in advance. Keep an eye out for 2027 dates as this immersive experience offers a deep dive into the diverse terrain and hospitality of Arkansas, making it a fantastic adventure for those seeking more than just a single-day race.

For 2027, many events are also focusing on enhanced rider support, improved course markings, and expanded post-event celebrations. Expect to see more focus on sustainable event practices and community engagement throughout the US gravel scene. Regardless of your chosen event, the overarching theme for 2027 is clear: the opportunity to push your limits, explore incredible landscapes, and connect with the thriving US gravel cycling community.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time of year for gravel cycling in the United States?

The best time to ride gravel in the United States largely depends on the region. Generally, late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather across many states, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the cold of winter. However, Southern states can offer enjoyable riding in winter, while mountainous regions are best in summer.

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