Hodag Country Ramble

Hodag Country Ramble – Rhinelander, Wisconsin, United States

• Date: September 18-20, 2026
• Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin, United States
• Distances: 26, 50, 80 miles
• Event Type: Gravel ride, multi-day, camping

The Hodag Country Ramble is a weekend gathering centered around a scenic gravel ride in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Held on private family land outside Rhinelander, the event is an invitation to experience the quiet landscapes of the region. Soaring trees, rolling hills, and the tannin-rich waters of nearby lakes define the atmosphere. The event celebrates community and the simple rhythm of riding through forests and fields, a true immersion in the northern Wisconsin environment.

Three route options—26, 50, and 80 miles—cater to a range of experiences, from a relaxed social spin to a more challenging day on the bike. The routes for this gravel ride in Wisconsin weave through a mix of terrain, including two-track, private logging roads, high-quality gravel, and stretches of quiet pavement. Organizers suggest a tyre width of at least 38c to comfortably handle the varied surfaces. A hardtail mountain bike or a capable gravel bike would be well-suited to the course.

The weekend is structured to be as much about the time off the bike as on it. Guests arrive on Friday to settle into the campsite, with the main ride taking place on Saturday morning. The routes are self-paced, encouraging riders to soak in the scenery. The 50- and 80-mile options include a stocked rest stop, while convenience stores are accessible on all but the shortest loop. The ride is followed by a communal dinner, refreshments, and a bonfire, fostering a warm, shared atmosphere.

On-site camping is a core part of the Ramble, though spaces are limited to ensure a comfortable experience. The venue is rustic, with porta-potties and handwashing stations provided. Participants are encouraged to be self-sufficient with meals and water, although a nearby lake offers a place for swimming and washing. The intimate setting on private land creates a unique sense of community among fellow riders who share an appreciation for this special place.

The event is a personal project, born from a desire to share a cherished home landscape with the wider cycling community. It’s an opportunity to pedal through National Forest land and discover the kind of roads that make gravel riding so compelling. There are many great other gravel events in United States, but the Ramble offers a distinctly personal touch, rooted in the history of the land itself. The weekend is about respect for the environment and the joy of discovery.

Whether you choose to ride fast or take it slow, the Hodag Country Ramble offers a memorable gravel ride in Wisconsin. The focus is on the experience: the crunch of gravel under tyres, the scent of pine, and the camaraderie of an evening spent around a fire. It’s a weekend to connect with both the landscape and fellow cyclists. Registration and further details can be found on the official event website.