Walla Walla Grit

Walla Walla Grit – Walla Walla, WA, United States

• Date: Sunday, September 13th, 2026
• Location: Quirk Brewing, Walla Walla, WA, United States
• Distances: 95 miles (Grande), 65 miles (Medio), 45 miles (Bambino)
• Event Type: Gravel Race

The Walla Walla Grit returns to deliver some of the best gravel cycling in Washington state. After a brief hiatus, this celebrated event is back with renewed energy, promising a memorable day on the unpaved roads of the Walla Walla Valley. The event offers three challenging routes, each designed to test riders against the region's demanding terrain while rewarding them with expansive views. Whether you approach it as a race against the clock or a long day's ride, the Grit is a pure, grassroots gravel experience.

Each of the three courses presents a formidable challenge, mixing unpaved sectors with brief paved connections. The flagship Grande route covers 95 miles with approximately 10,000 feet of climbing, while the Medio packs 6,000 feet into 65 miles. The Bambino offers a more condensed but still demanding 45-mile loop with 3,500 feet of elevation gain. All routes feature significant climbing, with gradients reaching over 12%, and include the infamous Cottonwood Creek Climb, known for its chunky, loose surface that blurs the line between gravel riding and mountain biking.

Riders should anticipate long hours in the saddle, with a high gravel-to-road ratio that showcases the quiet landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. The character of the roads varies from fast-rolling dirt to technical, rocky sections where wider tires are a rider's best friend. The event organizers recommend tire widths of 40mm or more to comfortably handle the terrain. With minimal traffic, the experience is one of immersion in the natural beauty of the valley, a true test of self-sufficiency between the well-stocked aid stations.

The event weekend kicks off with packet pickup on Saturday, September 12th, before the main event on Sunday. The race starts and finishes at Quirk Brewing in Walla Walla, creating a lively community atmosphere. The first riders roll out early, with staggered starts for each distance. The day is as much about the shared experience as it is about the riding, with a welcoming environment for both seasoned racers and first-time participants. The finish line at the brewery provides a perfect place to share stories from the road.

This corner of the Pacific Northwest is home to a passionate cycling community and a growing number of events. For those looking to explore more of the country's diverse terrain, there are many other gravel events in United States to discover. The early September weather in Walla Walla can be unpredictable, ranging from hot and dusty to cold and wet, so riders are advised to check the forecast and come prepared for anything the elements might throw their way.

The Walla Walla Grit is a true grassroots event, celebrating the spirit of adventure and resilience. It’s an honest, challenging day out that rewards effort with a profound sense of accomplishment. With chip timing, comprehensive support, and a festive finish, it has cemented its place as a premier experience for gravel cycling in Washington state. For complete details and registration, please visit the official event website.