Lead Ore Gravel

Lead Ore Gravel – Galena, IL, United States

• Date: October 3, 2026
• Location: Chestnut Mountain Resort, Galena, IL, United States
• Distances: 105 miles, 65 miles, 34 miles
• Event Type: Gravel Race

Set in a landscape shaped by history, the Lead Ore Gravel is a gravel race in Illinois that tests resolve as much as it does the legs. The event unfolds in the rolling hills around Galena, an area historically known for its lead mining. This heritage is woven into the character of the ride, which promises unrelenting climbs and terrain that demands patience. The spirit of the pioneers who once worked this land is the same spirit required to see the finish line here; it’s less about outright speed and more about endurance.

Three distinct routes offer different levels of challenge, each with a 50/50 split of pavement and gravel. The longest, ‘The Pioneer,’ is a formidable 105-mile journey with 9,400 feet of climbing. ‘The Settler’ covers 65 miles and 6,000 feet of elevation, while ‘The Explorer’ provides a 34-mile option with around 2,900 feet of ascent. While the shorter route is non-competitive, the Pioneer and Settler distances invite riders to push their limits against the terrain and the clock, with aid stations providing support along the way.

The routes are defined by the region’s topography, serving up constant climbing that leaves little room for recovery. The mix of surfaces keeps the rhythm varied, from smooth pavement to the crunch of gravel under tyres. For those taking on the 105-mile Pioneer route, a special challenge awaits: finishing in under seven hours earns a coveted finisher buckle, a tangible recognition of the grit and perseverance required to conquer this demanding course, echoing the resolve of the miners who toiled here more than a century ago.

The event weekend is based at the Chestnut Mountain Resort, offering a full schedule of activities. Proceedings begin on Friday with shake-out rides, a kids' crit, and a bike hill climb, creating a welcoming atmosphere for riders and their families. Saturday is dedicated to the main rides, with staggered start times beginning at 7:30 am for the Pioneer distance. The resort itself provides a convenient base, with hotel rooms and a limited number of on-site camping spots available for a complete weekend experience.

The landscape around Galena offers a distinct sense of place for this gravel race in Illinois. The region’s history is etched into the very roads the event travels. This is a ride that connects participants to something more fundamental—the simple, honest effort of moving through a challenging landscape. It’s an experience shaped not by hype, but by the quiet satisfaction of pushing through and earning the finish, one pedal stroke at a time, making it a memorable day of riding.

The event is a return to something real, a story written on the unyielding hills of Illinois. It’s an opportunity to find your resolve against a backdrop of quiet history and natural beauty. Full details on the routes, registration, and weekend schedule can be found on the official event website.