Ned Gravel

Ned Gravel – Nederland, United States

• Date: July 12, 2026
• Location: Nederland, Colorado, United States
• Event Type: Gravel Race

High in the mountains of Colorado, the Ned Gravel race offers a distinct challenge against a backdrop of raw, scenic beauty. This event pays homage to the region's rugged history, with routes that traverse ghost towns and old mining paths. The courses are not just a test of endurance but a journey through the landscapes that shaped the American West. Riding here involves navigating high-altitude terrain, where the air is thin and the gravel is demanding. It’s an experience that connects the rider to the quiet, resilient spirit of the mountains.

The character of this Colorado gravel race is defined by its elevation and technicality. With altitudes ranging from 8,000 to 10,300 feet, acclimatization is as much a part of the strategy as pacing. The climbs are significant and the terrain includes sections that demand careful bike handling. These are not courses for the faint-hearted; they were built from the organisers' own regular rides and reflect the challenging nature of the local topography. The reward is a profound sense of accomplishment and views that stretch across the vast, rolling expanse of the Rockies.

The event is rooted in a commitment to inclusivity. To foster a more diverse and welcoming starting line, registration for the 2026 edition opens with a priority week exclusively for women, BIPOC, non-binary, and para-cyclist athletes. This approach underscores the event's mission to be more than just a race; it aims to be a gathering that reflects the full spectrum of the cycling community. This thoughtful approach extends to the atmosphere of the entire event, which is designed to be supportive and encouraging for all who participate.

While the race itself is a single-day affair, the community aspect is cultivated through a series of training rides in the months leading up to the main event. These rides, including scavenger hunts and social "coffee rides," provide an opportunity for riders to familiarize themselves with the local terrain and connect with fellow participants. This build-up helps create a sense of camaraderie long before race day arrives. This series of preparatory events makes this Colorado gravel race a season-long experience rather than a one-off challenge.

The region of Nederland itself adds a unique flavor to the event. Situated in the Rocky Mountains, it offers an escape into a world of forested hills and high-altitude meadows. The landscape is a core part of the ride, shaping every pedal stroke and rewarding every effort with its stark beauty. For those exploring gravel events in United States, Ned Gravel provides a memorable high-altitude option. The combination of a challenging course and a stunning natural environment creates a truly distinctive riding experience.

Ultimately, Ned Gravel is an invitation to experience the rhythm of riding at elevation. It’s about the sound of tyres on loose dirt, the steady breath in the mountain air, and the quiet satisfaction of navigating a demanding course. The challenge is balanced by the beauty of the surroundings and the supportive community. Details about the courses, registration, and the unique ladies-first start can be found on the official event website.