Michaux GRVL

Michaux GRVL – Caledonia State Park, United States

• Date: September 26, 2026
• Location: Caledonia State Park, Pennsylvania, United States
• Distances: 100 miles, 65 miles, 45 miles, 15 miles
• Event Type: Gravel Race

The Michaux GRVL returns to the rugged beauty of Michaux State Forest, offering a formidable gravel race in Pennsylvania for riders of all levels. Departing from Caledonia State Park, the event provides a timed, competitive format where riders can push their limits or simply ride at their own pace. The atmosphere is one of focused effort and shared experience, set against the backdrop of the state’s dense woodlands and quiet gravel roads. It’s a day to test oneself against the terrain and the clock.

Four distinct routes cater to a wide spectrum of endurance and skill. The most ambitious is the 100-mile Expert course, a true test of conditioning with nearly 10,000 feet of climbing. The 65-mile Long Course and 45-mile Short Course also present significant challenges with substantial elevation gain. For those newer to the discipline or seeking a more relaxed day, the 15-mile Explorer course offers a taste of the forest’s character. Each route is designed to showcase the rewarding landscape of this renowned gravel race in Pennsylvania.

Riders should come prepared for the region’s notoriously chunky surfaces. The organizers recommend gravel bikes with tyres of at least 35mm to handle the rougher sections and minimize the risk of punctures on descents. While the courses will be marked, participants are strongly encouraged to use a reliable GPS computer with the route loaded, as signs can sometimes be missed. This emphasis on self-reliance is a key part of the experience, fostering a sense of adventure on the forest roads.

The event is structured as a full-day affair, with staggered start times beginning at 6:30 am for the 100-mile riders. Aid stations are strategically placed along the longer routes, staffed by local partners and beneficiaries like the Friends of Michaux. Mechanical support is available at the start, ensuring riders begin with confidence. The day concludes back at Caledonia State Park, where food trucks and beverages from Michaux Brewing Co await finishers, creating a warm, communal atmosphere to celebrate the day’s ride.

Beyond the riding, the event supports the local community, with proceeds benefiting groups that help maintain the forest. While prizes are awarded to top finishers, the spirit of Michaux GRVL is rooted in the personal challenge and the shared appreciation for the landscape. It’s a well-regarded stop on the calendar for those who appreciate the challenge of a classic East Coast gravel race in Pennsylvania. The area hosts many other gravel events in United States, but Michaux holds a special place for its raw terrain.

Whether racing for a podium spot or simply aiming to complete the distance, participants are part of a day dedicated to the simple, profound rhythm of gravel under tyres. The event balances competition with a welcoming spirit, making it a memorable experience. More information, including registration details and route files, can be found on the official event website. It’s a proper test set in a landscape that demands respect and rewards effort in equal measure.