PA Gravel Fest

PA Gravel Fest – Gaines, PA, United States

• Date: September 11-13, 2026
• Location: Crooked Creek Campground, Gaines, PA, United States
• Distances: 16-107 miles
• Event Type: Gravel Festival

In the quiet landscapes of north-central Pennsylvania, the PA Gravel Fest offers a weekend of riding and community. This three-day gathering is a highlight of the gravel events in Pennsylvania, a chance to explore the forested terrain and connect with fellow riders. Timed for the pleasant days of early autumn, the festival is based at Crooked Creek Campground, creating a relaxed basecamp atmosphere for a series of curated rides. The schedule is designed to be flexible, with both three-day and single-day options available to suit different plans and travel schedules, all centered around a shared appreciation for the simple rhythm of gravel under tyres.

The routes are the heart of the festival, showcasing the gravel roads along the western edge of the PA Grand Canyon in Tioga State Forest. With over a dozen options ranging from 16 to 107 miles, there is a ride for every inclination. The terrain is characterized by smooth gravel, gradual climbs with the occasional steep kicker, and some connecting paved sections. Riders navigate using their own devices, following routes that lead to panoramic vistas, quiet swimming holes, and scenic picnic spots. While some group rides are scheduled, participants are also free to explore the network of roads at their own pace.

The weekend unfolds with a comfortable and steady cadence. Friday begins with a welcome meeting before group rides head out, with options like the 42-mile Wilson Point 40. Saturday offers the longest rides, including the challenging 107-mile Whoopie Pie Run and the 52-mile Bradley Wale's Lookout Lunch ride. Sunday continues with more group rides, such as the Asaph 40, before the festival concludes in the afternoon. Throughout the weekend, a variety of gravel events in Pennsylvania are represented through the shared stories and experiences of the riders gathered here.

Beyond the riding, the PA Gravel Fest is a celebration of the broader gravel culture. The Crooked Creek Campground serves as a welcoming hub, with amenities including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts. The days are punctuated by shared meals, with a meal package available for purchase, and evenings are filled with live music and community gatherings. An expo area provides a space to connect, while skills clinics and "coffee talks" with experts on topics like nutrition, photography, and bike tech offer opportunities to learn and engage with the sport on a deeper level.

The spirit of the event is one of camaraderie and discovery. It’s an invitation to immerse oneself in the scenery of the Pennsylvania Wilds, a region known for its natural beauty. The area offers some of the most rewarding riding in the country, and for those looking to explore further, there are many other other gravel events in United States to discover. The festival provides a perfect context for this exploration, blending challenging rides with a supportive and friendly atmosphere.

As the weekend draws to a close, what remains is the feeling of time well spent among the rolling hills and quiet forests. It’s an experience built on simple pleasures: good roads, good food, and the company of friends old and new. The focus is less on competition and more on the shared journey. For full details on registration, lodging, and the complete schedule, please visit the official event website.