Wild Horse Gravel

Wild Horse Gravel – De Beque, Colorado, United States

• Date: May 15-16, 2027
• Location: De Beque, Colorado, United States
• Distances: 95 miles, 77 miles, 20 miles
• Event Type: Gravel Race

Set in the high-desert landscapes of western Colorado, Wild Horse Gravel offers a memorable gravel race in Colorado that is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the riding. From the small town of De Beque, three routes venture into remote and otherwise inaccessible terrain. The weekend is built around a classic Wild West celebration, complete with camping, a country cookout, and live music, creating a warm, communal feel that extends beyond the finish line. It’s an invitation to experience the quiet beauty of the region on two wheels.

The event presents riders with three distinct distance options. The longest is the 95-mile Mustang course, a serious undertaking with approximately 8,000 feet of climbing. The 77-mile Gunslinger route provides a similarly challenging but shorter alternative, with around 6,000 feet of elevation gain. For those seeking a more relaxed pace or a shorter day, the 20-mile Hoedown offers a wonderful taste of the local gravel. Each course has been designed to showcase the rugged character of the area, from sustained climbs to fast, sweeping descents.

The routes of this gravel race in Colorado are defined by their wild and untamed nature. Participants gain rare access to the dirt roads of The High Lonesome Ranch, traversing landscapes that are typically closed to the public. The 95-mile Mustang course is a particular test of endurance, featuring a 24-mile opening climb and technical descents on loose surfaces. Riders will ascend to over 8,000 feet, rewarded with vast views of the Book Cliffs and surrounding mesas before tackling the challenging return journey to De Beque.

The weekend begins on Friday with packet pickup and an optional casual-pace group ride, offering a preview of the terrain. The main events take place on Saturday and Sunday. The longer Mustang and Gunslinger races start early on Saturday morning, while the Hoedown ride and trail runs are scheduled for the following day. This staggered format allows for a full weekend of activity, whether participants are taking on a single race or the two-day Wild Horse Challenge, which combines cycling and running disciplines for a special finisher's memento.

Beyond the riding, the event fosters a strong sense of community. Free camping is available near the start line, encouraging a festival atmosphere. Saturday evening brings everyone together in downtown De Beque for an awards ceremony, food trucks, and live music. The spirit of the event is one of shared experience, where even the fastest riders are encouraged to pause and appreciate the views and camaraderie. It’s a weekend grounded in the simple pleasures of a hard ride and good company.

Wild Horse Gravel is a celebration of the rugged spirit of the American West. The demanding courses, set against a backdrop of immense natural beauty, provide a true test of grit and self-reliance. It is an opportunity to push personal limits on a challenging gravel race in Colorado while also enjoying the warmth of a welcoming community. More details and registration information can be found on the official event website, inviting riders to mark their calendars for an unforgettable weekend.