The Rise of Gravel: Why 2025 is the Biggest Year Yet for U.S. Gravel Races
Gravel cycling has officially taken over the U.S. endurance scene—and for good reason. With its mix of backcountry adventure, challenging terrain, and welcoming community, gravel racing offers an experience that road and mountain biking can’t quite match. As we roll into 2025, the U.S. gravel calendar is packed with incredible events from coast to coast, making it the perfect year to plan your next big ride.
Whether you’re looking for ultra-endurance gravel grinders, beginner-friendly gravel bike races, or multi-day gravel cycling festivals, the 2025 race schedule has something for every rider. These aren’t just races—they’re immersive gravel events that bring together riders of all levels, gear vendors, industry leaders, and local communities in celebration of the fastest-growing cycling discipline.
From the dusty roads of Kansas to the rugged Ozarks and high-elevation Colorado climbs, these top gravel cycling races in the U.S. offer unforgettable ride experiences. Here are the top 10 gravel races in the U.S. for 2025 that you absolutely should add to your calendar.
1. Unbound Gravel — Emporia, Kansas
Still considered the toughest gravel race in the U.S., Unbound Gravel returns in 2025 as the flagship event of the gravel racing world. Held in Emporia, Kansas, this iconic gravel bike race draws thousands of riders from around the globe to test their limits on the unforgiving Flint Hills. The 200-mile main event is the stuff of legend, but distances ranging from 25 to 350 miles make it accessible to nearly all levels.
Expect harsh terrain, minimal support, and big rewards. This is the Kansas gravel race that sets the standard.
Read more about Unbound Gravel here.
2. SBT GRVL — Steamboat Springs, Colorado
SBT GRVL 2025 is one of the premier gravel bike races in Colorado, offering smooth gravel, epic alpine views, and a polished race weekend experience. With four distances ranging from 37 to 142 miles, riders can tailor their challenge while enjoying well-supported aid stations and a lively race village in downtown Steamboat Springs.
This high-altitude gravel event balances toughness with approachability, making it a favorite among both elite racers and newcomers to the sport.
Read more about SBT Gravel here.
3. Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) — Multi-State Series
The Belgian Waffle Ride series continues to grow in 2025 with events in California, Utah, Arizona, and North Carolina. Known for its blend of road, gravel, and technical off-road sections, each BWR event is a full-spectrum mixed-terrain experience. These are more than just gravel races—they’re part festival, part sufferfest.
From desert grit to Appalachian climbs, BWR offers a unique flavor of gravel racing that’s unlike anything else on the U.S. calendar. If you’re searching for a challenging, mixed-surface gravel bike race, this series belongs on your list.
Read more about Belgian Waffle Ride here.
4. Gravel Worlds — Lincoln, Nebraska
Gravel Worlds 2025 brings grassroots energy to the gravel racing scene with a 150-mile ultra-endurance course through the rolling hills of Lincoln, Nebraska. Open to riders of all backgrounds—no license required—this pirate-themed event has built a reputation as one of the most inclusive and welcoming ultra gravel races in the U.S.
If you’re chasing long miles, big heart, and good vibes, this Nebraska gravel event delivers.
Read more about Gravel Worlds here
5. Mid South Gravel Race — Stillwater, Oklahoma
The Mid South 2025 is one of the most anticipated early-season gravel races in the country. Held each March in Stillwater, Oklahoma, it’s infamous for its unpredictable conditions, especially when rain turns the red dirt roads into thick, sticky clay. Choose between 50- and 100-mile options in this unique Oklahoma gravel bike race that’s equal parts chaos and community.
Whether you’re aiming to win or just survive the red mud, Mid South is an unforgettable way to kick off your 2025 gravel season.
Read more about Mid South Gravel Race here
6. Crusher in the Tushar — Beaver, Utah
Set in Utah’s remote Tushar Mountains, the Crusher in the Tushar is one of the most iconic climbing gravel races in the U.S. The 2025 edition features 69 miles of gravel and road, with more than 10,000 feet of vertical gain at high elevation. Riders face heat, altitude, and punishing grades—but also some of the most spectacular views in North America.
If you’re looking for a high-altitude gravel race that blends beauty with brutality, this one is for you.
Read more about Crusher in the Tushar here
7. Rule of Three — Bentonville, Arkansas
Bentonville, Arkansas has become a gravel hotbed, and the Rule of Three is one of its most creative gravel events. As the name implies, the course is divided into one-third gravel, one-third pavement, and one-third singletrack. In 2025, expect an even more ambitious and challenging layout that forces riders to be strategic and versatile.
This Arkansas gravel race is all about variety, flow, and fun with a serious edge.
Read more about Rule of Three here
8. Big Sugar Gravel — Bentonville, Arkansas
Also based in Bentonville, Big Sugar Gravel 2025 returns in late October with peak Ozark fall colors and a punchy, technical course. Riders can choose between 50- and 100-mile routes through rugged terrain with steep climbs and fast descents.
As one of the best-supported and most scenic fall gravel races in the U.S., Big Sugar is ideal for riders looking to wrap up the season on a high note.
Read more about Big Sugar Gravel here
9. Rebecca’s Private Idaho — Sun Valley, Idaho
Rebecca’s Private Idaho 2025 is more than a race—it’s a multi-day celebration of gravel cycling and community, set in the scenic high country of Sun Valley. Founded by endurance legend Rebecca Rusch, this Idaho gravel bike event combines world-class routes with a cause, supporting Rusch’s Be Good Foundation.
With course options from 20 to 100 miles, this is a can’t-miss West Coast gravel event for anyone who values purpose and adventure.
Read more about Rebecca´s Private Idaho here
10. The Rad Dirt Fest — Trinidad, Colorado
One of Colorado’s most scenic and underrated gravel events, The Rad Dirt Fest in Trinidad is growing fast—and for good reason. Offering three distance options (38, 70, and 117 miles), this September gravel race blends high-altitude riding, panoramic views, and a laid-back vibe.
The 2025 edition promises to be the biggest yet, making it a must for fans of Colorado gravel bike races and mountain town culture.
Read more about The Rad Dirt Fest here
Why 2025 Is the Year of Gravel
The explosion of gravel events in the U.S. proves that this movement is here to stay. With more diverse course options, community-focused race culture, and support for riders of all levels, the 2025 gravel season is shaping up to be the best yet. Whether you’re racing for the podium or the personal story, gravel riding delivers freedom, challenge, and connection like nothing else in cycling.
