Bighorn Gravel

Bighorn Gravel – Gypsum, Colorado, United States

• Date: June 20, 2026
• Location: Gypsum, Colorado
• Distances: 85 miles, 50 miles, 20 miles
• Event Type: Gravel Race

The Bighorn Gravel event in Colorado offers a unique adventure into the heart of the Rockies. Starting and finishing in the rugged western town of Gypsum, this event is defined by its challenging terrain and high-altitude mountain roads. It’s a day for riders who appreciate the raw character of the backcountry, where the landscape is described as “high, rough, and lonesome.” The routes are designed to test endurance and skill, rewarding participants with a profound sense of accomplishment amidst the quiet grandeur of the White River National Forest region.

Three distinct routes cater to a range of abilities and ambitions. The marquee distance is the 85-mile Ram’s Horn Escape, an ultra-endurance challenge with approximately 10,000 feet of climbing that reaches altitudes of nearly 11,000 feet. The shorter, yet still formidable, Little Bighorn covers 50 miles and 5,700 feet of climbing, capturing the essential spirit of the main course. For those newer to the discipline, the 20-mile Gravel Curious option provides a welcoming introduction to off-road riding, featuring a significant climb and a rewarding descent back to Gypsum.

The character of this gravel event in Colorado is shaped by its primitive and demanding surfaces. Forget smooth, manicured paths; the course travels over backcountry forest roads that see little maintenance. Organizers recommend a minimum tire width of 38mm to handle everything from low-speed, technical climbs to fast, ripping descents. While a modern gravel bike is the common choice, the terrain is rugged enough that a hardtail mountain bike would not be out of place. Preparation for variable conditions is key, as weather can quickly alter the nature of the dirt and gravel roads.

The event begins with a police escort from the lawn of Gypsum Town Hall, guiding riders out of town and onto the course. The routes are structured as single loops, featuring a mix of dirt, gravel, and minimal pavement. Aid stations are strategically placed along the longer routes to provide nutritional support, though riders are expected to be largely self-sufficient, carrying their own maps, tools, and supplies. This emphasis on self-reliance is a core part of the event’s adventurous identity. The day fosters a sense of shared challenge among the many who come to experience these gravel events in United States.

Beyond the riding, the event cultivates a strong sense of community. The start and finish in Gypsum serve as the central hub for the weekend, where riders can share stories and experiences. While support crews are not permitted on course to preserve the event’s spirit and rider safety, family and friends are encouraged to cheer at the start and welcome finishers back. The local Gypsum Rec Center even offers facilities for a post-ride shower, adding a touch of comfort after a long day on rugged roads. The Bighorn Gravel event in Colorado is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of resilience and landscape.

The experience is designed to be a true adventure, where participants must make informed decisions and be prepared for the challenges of a remote environment. Sections of the course lack cell service, reinforcing the need for preparation and self-sufficiency. For full details on registration, course specifics, and mandatory equipment, it is best to consult the official event website. It promises a memorable day of riding through some of Colorado’s most stirring and lonesome landscapes. Discover more gravel events in United States on our destination guide.