Uncle John's Gravel Race

Uncle John's Gravel Race – St. Johns, Michigan, United States

• Date: September 12 & 13, 2026
• Location: St. Johns, Michigan, United States
• Distances: 16, 28, 57 miles
• Event Type: Gravel Race

Each September, the quiet roads around St. Johns, Michigan welcome the distinctive sound of gravel under tyres for Uncle John's Gravel Race, a celebrated gravel race in Michigan. Set against the backdrop of a classic American cider mill, the event combines spirited competition with a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. It’s a weekend that draws riders to the rolling terrain of mid-Michigan for a late-season test of fitness and a celebration of the harvest season, all centered at Uncle John's Cider Mill.

The event unfolds over two days, offering a full weekend of activity. While the main gravel races are the centerpiece, the gathering is designed to be inclusive, with a festive air that extends beyond the finish line. The venue itself, a working cider mill, provides a unique and memorable setting. This isn’t just a race but an experience, deeply rooted in its location and the time of year, making it a distinct fixture on the calendar for many riders across the region.

Three distinct distances provide options for a wide spectrum of riders. The 57-mile course offers a significant challenge, while the 28-mile and 16-mile routes provide a less demanding but equally engaging day on the bike. This variety ensures that both seasoned racers and those newer to the discipline can find a suitable challenge. Each course is crafted to showcase the character of the area’s gravel roads, winding through the agricultural landscapes that define this part of the state.

The routes of this official event website guide riders through the pleasant, rolling farm country of the region. Participants can expect a mix of surfaces, with the majority being well-maintained gravel roads that allow for a steady rhythm. The courses are not defined by major climbs, but rather by the persistent undulations of the landscape, requiring riders to measure their efforts. The late summer setting often provides a firm and fast riding surface, rewarding those who can maintain momentum over the rolling hills.

Beyond the individual effort of the race, Uncle John's fosters a strong sense of community. The event is part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series, adding another layer of friendly competition for series participants. With camping available nearby, many riders choose to stay for the entire weekend, sharing stories and experiences with fellow cyclists. The atmosphere is one of camaraderie, where the shared love for riding on quiet roads brings people together year after year for this gravel race in Michigan.