The growing evolution of off-road cycling events
Gravel bikes and gravel bike events are a bit of a misnomer. While it’s true that gravel can be encountered during a gravel event, more often you’ll find dirt, rocks, sand and a little bit of asphalt. Some say gravel biking is akin to what mountain biking was back in the early 1990s.
In the last decade, the popularity of gravel events has skyrocketed. Part of it is due to the fun, adventurous nature of getting off paved roads deeper into the forest, and another part of it is related to safety and peace of mind; distracted driving has made road cycling more dangerous than ever.
Regardless of why people gravitate to gravel, California has some of the greatest gravel riding in the country due to thousands of miles of mountainous dirt roads with very little vehicle traffic. The events below showcase endless opportunities to get off pavement with drop bars and knobby tires, discovering a new zone with the convenience of well-marked courses, aid stations and post ride festivities. As thousands o f cyclists have already discovered, those who do it in the dirt – or gravel – have more fun. 
Grasshopper Adventures
Locations: Ukiah, Maxwell, Lake Sonoma, Duncan Mills // Gravel Events: Low Gap, Huffmaster, Lake Sonoma MTB, Ukiah Mendo Gravel Epic, King Ridge
The Grasshopper Adventure Series is the world’s first and longest-running gravel and mixed-terrain adventure series. Known for its grassroots, unconventional bike race events, the series challenges riders with diverse and scenic routes across Northern California. Each event is designed to test endurance and skill while fostering a spirit of adventure and community. grasshopperadventureseries.com
Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (SBTS)
Locations: Portola and Quincy // Gravel Events: Lost & Found, Grinduro
Not only does SBTS maintain and enhance recreational trails in the Lost Sierra region, they put on some of the most iconic cycling events in Northern California. Perhaps best known for their legendary Downieville Classic, they also put on the Lost and Found Gravel Festival in Portola and this year will once again host Grinduro at the Plumas Sierra Fairgrounds as part of the new Mountains to Meadows Endurofest weekend. Grinduro, the popular Gravel Enduro race, started in Quincy in 2015 and will return to its first home in its 10th year. sierratrails.org
Bike Monkey
Locations: Carson City, Truckee, Atascadero // Gravel Events:
Stetina’ s Paydirt, Truckee Gravel, Bovine Classic
Bike Monkey has been producing cycling events since 2006, when they organized their first race in Boggs Demonstration State Forest. Over the years, they have expanded their portfolio to include a variety of road, mountain, and gravel events, attracting riders of all levels with scenic routes and vibrant festival atmospheres. Their events blend challenging courses with a welcoming community spirit while supporting local causes. bikemonkey.net
Groveland Trail Heads
Location: Groveland // Gravel Event: Groveland Grind
Groveland Trail Heads is a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to creating and maintaining exceptional trail experiences near Yosemite. Established in 2013, they partner with the Stanislaus National Forest to build and manage mountain bike-specific trails. They also host the Groveland Grind, a mixed-terrain adventure ride that has been growing in popularity for several years. In addition to the Groveland Grind, they organize smaller community events, fostering a welcoming and inclusive cycling community. grovelandtrailheads.org
TUFF Ventures
Location: Mammoth // Gravel Event: Mammoth TUFF
Mammoth TUFF is a challenging gravel race in the Eastern Sierra, founded by Dave Sheek and Amanda Nauman in 2019. It celebrates toughness, resilience, and adventure while fostering camaraderie. Riders navigate scenic, rugged backroads around Mammoth Lakes, facing tough climbs and unpredictable weather conditions. The event is known for its welcoming vibe, encouraging cyclists of all levels to explore their version of “TUFF.” The event is now one of two events in the US that are part of the UCI Gravel World Series. tuff.ventures
Chico Velo
Location: Chico // Gravel Event: Butte Country Gravel Grind
Chico Velo is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting bicycling for transportation, recreation, and health through advocacy, education, and community stewardship. Best known for their iconic Wildflower Century event, they introduced their first gravel race, the Butte County Gravel Grind, last year, expanding their reach to gravel enthusiasts. Their events support local biking initiatives and foster a vibrant cycling community in Northern California. Chico Velo’s dedication to cycling makes Northern California a better place to ride. chicovelo.org
Tahoe XC
Location: Lake Tahoe // Gravel Event: The Great Gravel Ride
The Great Gravel Ride is an annual cycling event organized by Tahoe XC, offering participants a choice between a 15-mile (one lap) or 30-mile (two laps) course. Riders traverse rolling terrain with stunning views of Lake Tahoe, creating a memorable experience for both recreational and seasoned cyclists. The event benefits the Tahoe Cross-Country Ski Education Association, supporting youth programs and trail maintenance. The inaugural ride took place in 2024 and provides a unique opportunity to explore Tahoe’s scenic trails. tahoexc.org
Lassen Land & Trails Trust
Location: Susanville // Gravel Event: Lassen Gravel Adventure Ride
The Lassen Gravel Adventure Ride offers scenic and challenging routes through Lassen National Forest. Organized by the Lassen Land & Trails Trust, Susanville Area Bicycle Association, and the Bizz Running Company, the event supports trail projects in northeastern California. Riders experience rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, showcasing the region’s beauty. Combining the expertise of a running company with local cycling communities, it delivers a unique gravel riding experience with a shared purpose of trail stewardship.lassenlandandtrailstrust.org
Keep an eye out for new events and rides beyond this list — you might just find your next favorite adventure.
See other events on our calendar.
