Surface Type
Mixed / Gravel
Typical Conditions
Warm late-summer conditions
Event Overview
The Great Otway Gravel Grind 2026 is a cycling event set in the scenic landscape of Forrest, Victoria. Participants will navigate a variety of courses that showcase the region’s natural beauty. This event encourages endurance and resilience, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for cyclists of different skill levels.
What the Course Demands
The course presents a mix of terrains that require cyclists to demonstrate both strength and technical skills. Participants can expect to face varying elevations and distances, necessitating proper pacing and strategy throughout the ride. It is essential to be prepared for the physical demands of the event.
Who This Event Suits Best
This event is ideal for cyclists who have a solid foundation in endurance riding and are looking to test their limits. It caters to a range of abilities, from intermediate to advanced cyclists, who are comfortable with the challenges presented by a gravel grind format.
Preparing for This Event
If you are considering this event and want some structure around your preparation, a targeted training plan can help you arrive feeling confident rather than underprepared. The aim is not to train harder, but to train in a way that suits the distance, terrain, and likely conditions of the course.
Choosing a plan is optional, but having structure can remove uncertainty and make training easier to repeat week to week. The best option is the one that fits your current fitness, available time, and experience level.
Distances & Categories
| Category | Format / Distances | Prep Time | Level |
| 106km Gravel |
106km |
18 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 49km Gravel |
49km |
14 Weeks |
Intermediate |
| 100km MTB |
100km |
20 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 75km MTB |
75km |
16 Weeks |
Advanced |
| 50km MTB |
50km |
12 Weeks |
Intermediate |
| 30km MTB |
30km |
10 Weeks |
Intermediate |
| 10km MTB |
10km |
4 Weeks |
Beginner |
Event Map
Please note: the map location may be approximate. Refer to the event website for start lines and course maps.
Training Tips for Cycling