Mad Gravel

Mad Gravel – Elbert County, United States

• Date: September 5-7, 2026
• Location: Elbert County, Colorado, United States
• Distances: Hemi, Hemi Five-O, Hemi Hustle
• Event Type: Gravel Race, Cyclocross

The Labor Day weekend brings a unique atmosphere to the Colorado front range with the Mad Gravel event, a fixture of the regional calendar. This gravel race in Colorado offers a full weekend of riding, camping, and community, all based out of the McNeil Ranch at Peaceful Valley. The event has grown over six years into a celebration of gravel culture, set against a backdrop of wide-open spaces and distant high peaks, providing a welcome alternative to the mountain traffic for which the Front Range is known.

The weekend schedule is packed with activity. On Saturday, the cyclocross season kicks off with Mad Cross, a punchy two-mile circuit race that includes a team relay. Sunday is dedicated to the main gravel events: the Hemi, Hemi Five-O, and Hemi Hustle. These three distinct distances ensure there is a suitable challenge for a wide range of riders, from seasoned racers to those newer to the discipline. All routes are composed entirely of gravel and dirt roads, promising an authentic experience of the terrain.

Riders setting out on the Sunday routes will immediately encounter a short climb from the Peaceful Valley venue, which quickly gives way to the variable terrain of Elbert County. The courses for this gravel race in Colorado are designed to be challenging, featuring a blend of punchy climbs, fast descents, and long, open sections where the views are as rewarding as the effort. The routes loop back to finish in front of the main patio, setting the stage for post-ride festivities and a welcoming atmosphere for finishers.

The venue itself, McNeil Ranch at Peaceful Valley, serves as the heart of the event. With options for camping from Friday to Sunday, participants can immerse themselves in the weekend. The large dining hall and deck act as the central hub for registration, daily awards, and post-race gatherings. This setup fosters a strong sense of community, where riders and their families can relax, spectate, and share stories from the road. The layout offers excellent vantage points for watching the race unfold and the finishers arrive.

Beyond the races, the event is a broader celebration of cycling. Live music and a post-race BBQ on Sunday contribute to the festival feel. The inclusion of kids' events makes it a family-friendly weekend. This corner of the state offers a different perspective on the landscape, and there are many other other gravel events in United States that explore its varied topography. Mad Gravel channels this spirit of exploration into a well-supported and memorable weekend of riding and camaraderie.

With fully stocked feed zones, custom swag, and a clear focus on the rider experience, Mad Gravel has established itself as a key date for any cyclist looking for a proper gravel race in Colorado. The courses are well-marked, though riders are encouraged to have their own navigation as backup. For complete registration details, course maps, and rules, please consult the official event website.