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 contingency route

In the event of wet conditions, it becomes necessary to modify the course for the gravelon due to the formation of mud and clay on the Rowe Mesa. When faced with wet weather, the gravelon, designed for optimal performance on dry surfaces, encounters significant challenges while navigating through the muddy terrain. The presence of mud and clay creates extremely difficult riding conditions. Therefore, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the gravelon becomes paramount, necessitating a course adjustment that avoids areas prone to mud and clay formation. Instead, alternative routes that provide better and safer riding conditions should be chosen.

The Start/Finish

The start/finish is located just inside the boundary of the Santa Fe National Forest off on 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. Riders may start after but not before 9:00 am.

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.
Specific locations TBD.

Finishers in every category will receive a commemorative finisher’s medal, earn yours in 2024!

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 Gravelón  will take place Saturday, May 18th 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 – $75
December – January – $85
February – May -$95
Onsite registration May 17th – 19th – $105

Gravelón Fondo Results
2022 Gravelón Fondo Results