The Route

Starting on Rowe Mesa, the first 14.8 miles of the clockwise loop begins on Forest roads that wind through the Ponderosa groves and grasslands of the transition zone typical of northern New Mexico. The right turn onto Highway 34 marks the beginning of 9 miles of a fast paved section without any big climbs and a change into the shorter trees of the piñon/juniper forest. The remaining 30 miles are all on improved dirt/gravel roads with a mix of rolling terrain with some moderate but longer climbs back to the start/finish. There is a total of 3,100’ of climbing on the route.

Wet conditions

In the event of wet conditions, it may become necessary to modify the course for the Gravelon due to the formation of mud and clay on Rowe Mesa, which creates extremely difficult riding conditions. The Gravelon route is optimally ridden when the surface is dry, and wet conditions present significant challenges to navigating muddy terrain.  Therefore, in order to ensure the safety of the Gravelon, an alternative route that provides better and safer riding conditions may be chosen.

The Start/Finish

The start/finish is located just inside the boundary of the Santa Fe National Forest off of Forest Road 326 on Rowe Mesa, a 20 minute drive southeast of Santa Fe. Parking will be available in a pull-out off of the forest road and on the shoulder of the road.

https://goo.gl/maps/Zk6mNxogf7hJgvZE6

Start Time There will be a mandatory riders’ meeting at 8:45 am and a mass-start at 9:00 am for both events, Gravelito and Gravelon.

Gear and Equipment Each rider needs a multiple gear bike with a low gear for hill climbing in good mechanical condition, with a tire width of at least 35 mm recommended. A bicycle tune up prior to the event is highly recommended.

Helmets meeting CPSC standards are mandatory. All riders should ride single file, obey traffic laws and adhere to the same rules as automobiles. In addition, each cyclist must carry a spare tube, a patch kit, pump or CO2 cartridges and basic tools. Each rider should carry extra water.

Food Stops There are 3 Food Stops with snacks, fresh fruit, energy drinks, water and more.

Finishers in every category will receive a commemorative finisher’s medal, earn yours!

Gravelon Prizes/awards will be given to the first 3 finishers in every age group for men and women. The top 5 overall will be excluded from age group awards. Age groups are divided into the following groups: 19 & under, 20 – 29, 30 – 39, 40 – 49, 50 – 59, 60 – 69, and 70+  To be eligible to receive the prize money, the rider must be present at the podium ceremony.

IMPORTANT

The awards ceremony for the Gravelito  will take place Saturday, May 17th at 5 pm. in the Railyard Park. Awards for Gran/Medio Fondos will start at 2:00 pm Sunday in the Railyard Park. Riders must be present to claim prizes, no exceptions!

Registration Fee 
August – November / $77
December – January / $87
February – May / $97
Onsite registration May 16th – 18th /  $107