Unbound Gravel – The Heart of American Gravel Racing
If there’s one event that defines modern gravel racing, it’s Unbound Gravel in Emporia, Kansas. Often called the crown jewel of destination gravel races, Unbound captures everything riders love about the sport (endurance, community, and unpredictability). The course cuts through the Flint Hills, a landscape that feels wild and endless, with rolling terrain that demands patience as much as power.
For many cyclists, Unbound is more than just another race on the gravel race calendar 2025/2026. It’s a test of mental grit and smart pacing. The 200-mile route is legendary for its chunky limestone, unpredictable weather, and scenic solitude. Riders face headwinds that can turn miles into marathons and mud that clings to tyres like glue. Yet, crossing the finish line in Emporia’s buzzing main street feels like joining a global family.
What makes Unbound so special is its inclusivity. Whether you’re tackling the 25-mile fun ride or the brutal 350-mile XL challenge, you’ll find camaraderie at every rest stop. Locals line the streets, cowbells in hand, cheering for first-timers and pros alike. That energy transforms exhaustion into motivation.
Here’s why Unbound Gravel stands out among the best gravel races worth traveling for:
- Iconic terrain: Flint Hills’ natural beauty and constantly changing surfaces keep every mile unpredictable.
- Event culture: A perfect blend of competitive spirit and community support.
- Accessibility: Options for all levels, making it a great pick for your first major gravel cycling adventure.
- Historic prestige: Winning or even finishing here is a badge of honor in the gravel world.
If your goal is to experience the soul of American gravel, Unbound should be at the top of your bucket list. It’s not just a race, it’s a rite of passage.
If you’re planning to take on one of these epic gravel races, your preparation matters just as much as your gear choice. To help you get race-ready, check out our detailed guide on How to Train for a Gravel Race. It covers everything from structured workouts to recovery tips designed for mixed-terrain riders.
Whether you're gearing up for the Unbound Gravel, the La Castellón Gravel Race, or any of the other epic events we’ve covered, our full suite of Cycling Training Plans can give you the structure and focus you need to succeed. Designed for all levels, from beginner to advanced, these plans help you build endurance, strength, and race-day strategy.
Whether you’re training for your first gravel race or pushing for a podium finish, we’ve got a training plan to suit your goals. With smart blocks, tailored workouts, and expert coaching insights, you’ll ride smarter and stronger — without the guesswork.
Choose the plan that fits your race goals, stay consistent, and enjoy the adventure!
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Grinduro – Where Gravel Meets Festival Culture
Grinduro is one of the few events that perfectly blends a challenging ride with the atmosphere of a cycling festival. Its signature format includes four timed segments, each roughly five to seven minutes long, across a full mixed-terrain loop of pavement, gravel, and singletrack. Only those sections count toward your result, giving riders time to enjoy the untimed sections and soak in the scenery. For cyclists exploring the best gravel races worth traveling for, Grinduro is a must-see stop on the gravel race calendar 2025/2026.
The event travels across the globe, with editions in Italy, Scotland, California, and Japan. Each venue showcases its region’s unique terrain. From alpine roads and rocky hillsides to forested paths and technical trails. What makes Grinduro stand out among destination gravel races is the combination of high-quality riding and a weekend-long celebration of cycling culture. Riders camp near the course, listen to live music, and share meals with fellow racers, turning it into a true gravel cycling adventure.
The race structure encourages both performance and fun. Between timed segments, riders can chat, refuel, or enjoy panoramic views before the next effort begins. It’s a refreshing balance for those who love to compete but also appreciate the social side of riding. Each timed section offers its own flavor (a tough climb, a technical descent, or a fast rolling stretch) testing fitness, skill, and pacing.
Who is Grinduro best for? Anyone who enjoys variety, values community, and prefers a relaxed yet competitive atmosphere. It’s ideal for riders planning a gravel bike event travel experience that mixes sport with culture. While beginner-friendly, the routes still demand good handling and solid endurance. If live music, scenic gravel, and camping under the stars sound like your perfect weekend, Grinduro deserves a place on your gravel race bucket list. Just don’t wait too long to sign up, most editions sell out fast.
When it comes to recovery after tough gravel rides, what you drink matters. For more insights, check out our Best Post-Workout Drink for Cyclists guide to help you optimize your refuelling strategy.
The Rift – Iceland’s Wild Volcanic Gravel Adventure
There’s no other race quite like The Rift. Held every July in Hvolsvöllur, Iceland, this destination gravel race lets you pedal across the Mid-Atlantic Rift. The dividing line between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It’s one of the most breathtaking events on the gravel race calendar 2025/2026, offering riders the chance to experience landscapes shaped by fire and ice.
The main route covers roughly 200 kilometers (125 miles) with around 2,600 meters of elevation gain. About 85 percent of the course is gravel, winding through volcanic plains, lava fields, glacial valleys, and shallow river crossings. Conditions can change fast, one moment you’re riding under clear skies, the next you’re facing icy wind, mist, or rain. Temperatures typically sit between 5 °C and 15 °C, so preparation is key. A shorter 140 km option has been available in certain years, giving less experienced riders a way to sample the challenge without committing to the full distance.
What makes The Rift truly special is its isolation. There are no massive crowds or city noise, just the crunch of tyres over black volcanic rock and the sound of the Arctic wind moving through the highlands. Many cyclists describe it as a raw gravel cycling adventure, where mental strength, pacing, and respect for nature are as important as fitness. Every kilometer feels remote, but also deeply rewarding.
If you’re planning to travel for The Rift, arrive a few days early to explore nearby attractions like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. Bring layered, waterproof clothing and sturdy tubeless tyres with puncture protection (Iceland’s terrain is beautiful but unforgiving). The event is limited to around 1,000 participants to protect the environment, and registration fills up quickly. For those chasing one of the best gravel races worth traveling for, The Rift delivers a rare mix of endurance, wonder, and wild scenery. A once-in-a-lifetime ride that defines true adventure.
SBT GRVL – The High-Altitude Gravel Challenge in Colorado
SBT GRVL stands among the most recognized destination gravel races in the world. Hosted in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, it combines smooth ranch roads, alpine scenery, and a strong community spirit. Sitting at roughly 2,040 meters (6,700 feet) above sea level, it’s a genuine high-altitude gravel cycling adventure and one of the cornerstone events on the gravel race calendar 2025/2026.
The 2025 weekend, scheduled for June 28–29, offers several routes to match different abilities. The Blue Course covers 99 miles (159 km) with 7,703 feet (2,348 m) of climbing. The Red Course spans 56.7 miles (91 km) with 3,940 feet (1,202 m) of elevation gain, while the Green Course totals 36.5 miles (59 km) and around 2,000 feet (610 m) of climbing. A separate 37-mile competitive race loop near Hayden runs on Sunday for both amateur and elite fields. Each route blends long climbs with fast descents on smooth, hard-packed gravel. An experience that perfectly captures the magic of riding in Colorado’s high country.
SBT GRVL is celebrated not only for its professional organization but also for its inclusivity and sustainability focus. Steamboat Springs turns into a cycling festival across the weekend, with live music, local food, group rides, and an expo buzzing with energy. Riders come from all over the world for this gravel bike event travel experience, drawn by its balance of challenge, community, and world-class scenery.
Rider tip: The altitude can catch anyone off guard. Arrive at least two days early to acclimate, hydrate constantly, and keep your pacing conservative on the first climbs. Mornings can be cool, but midday sun heats the valleys quickly (layer accordingly). Bring durable tyres for loose descents and plan nutrition carefully for the long climbs. Whether you’re cruising the Green Course or taking on the 99-mile Blue, SBT GRVL delivers mountain beauty, fast gravel, and that unmistakable Colorado grit that defines the best gravel races worth traveling for.
If you’re looking for more amazing cycling events to challenge yourself, check out our list of the Best Gran Fondos in the World to see where else you can push your limits and explore stunning routes around the globe.
SEVEN Gravel Race – Australia’s Gravel Playground Worth the Trip
The SEVEN Gravel Race in Nannup, Western Australia, is one of the Southern Hemisphere’s standout destination gravel races. Set in the Blackwood Valley’s rolling hills and forest roads, it blends rugged beauty, steep climbs, and warm local hospitality. The 2026 edition is confirmed for May 16, 2026 and forms part of the UCI Gravel World Series, making it a clear highlight on the gravel race calendar 2025/2026 and one of the best gravel races worth traveling for.
Riders can choose from four distances: the 125 km “SEVEN,” 85 km “FIVE,” 50 km “THREE,” and 25 km “ONE.” The signature 125 km course packs about 3,300 meters of climbing and includes long gravel ascents, fast farm tracks, and short pinches that can reach gradients near 20 percent. Surfaces shift between compact red dirt, graded gravel, and shaded forest roads, so bike handling and smart pacing matter. If you want a genuine gravel cycling adventure with a strong Aussie flavor, this is it.
The event weekend turns Nannup and nearby Balingup into buzzing rider hubs with local food, music, and a friendly festival vibe. Because the distances are tiered, you can match the route to your fitness while still soaking in the full experience of a premium gravel bike event travel. Keep in mind that the full SEVEN course calls for a medium to high level of fitness, so arrive prepared and respect the climbing.
Rider tips: Bring lower gearing for the long climbs and fit wider tires (38–40 mm) for grip on mixed surfaces. Pack layers, as May mornings can be cool before the sun warms the valley. Arrive a day early to pre-ride a short sector and to explore nearby trails along the Blackwood River. Book accommodation in Nannup or Balingup well ahead of time. If you’re building a bucket list of destination gravel events, SEVEN delivers a demanding course, a welcoming community, and scenery that captures the wild heart of Western Australia.
For an excellent overview on how to prepare for off‑road and gravel terrain rides, check out this guide: The Basics of Gravel Riding.
As you prepare for your next gravel race, whether it’s the SBT GRVL or La Castellón Gravel Race, it's crucial to focus on your threshold power. Our structured Cycling Threshold Training Plan is designed to boost your performance, making sure you can sustain effort over long stretches of gravel and handle tough climbs with ease.
From long tempo sessions to high-intensity intervals, this plan helps you develop the stamina and power needed to excel in both short and long gravel races. It's tailored to improve your threshold, optimize your pacing, and help you finish strong.
Get the most out of every ride and step up your cycling performance with the right plan.
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Gravel Grind – Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge, New Zealand
The Gravel Grind is part of the legendary Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge, New Zealand’s largest and longest-running cycling event. This event blends breathtaking scenery, well-maintained routes, and Kiwi hospitality into one unforgettable gravel cycling adventure. The 83 km course features rolling farmland, native forest trails, and quiet backcountry roads, earning its place among the best gravel races worth traveling for in the Southern Hemisphere and a must-do on the gravel race calendar 2025/2026.
Riders tackle roughly 977 m of climbing over a terrain mix of 70 percent gravel, 11 percent sealed road, 16 percent mountain-bike trail, and 3 percent other surfaces. The route loops through the Taupō region’s varied pumice gravel, where drainage keeps the track firm even after rain. Expect gentle climbs, flowy forest sections, and panoramic lake views that make every kilometre worth the effort. The route suits riders with moderate fitness who enjoy a balance of endurance and scenery.
The wider Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge transforms the town into a cycling festival with an expo, food vendors, and multiple disciplines (road, MTB, e-bike, and family rides). The Gravel Grind captures the same spirit but adds a rawer, adventure-driven edge. It’s the perfect event if you’re planning a gravel bike event travel getaway and want a race that combines challenge, community, and stunning landscapes.
Rider tips: The climbs are long and steep, so use lower gearing for the long climbs and fit wider tyres (38–42 mm) for grip on mixed surfaces. Mornings near Lake Taupō can be cool, so pack a light shell for those early starts. Strength training will also play a key role in your race preparation, especially for those punchy climbs and rugged gravel sections. Focus on building leg power and explosive strength to handle those steep pitches. If you’re looking for targeted exercises, check out our Strength Training Exercises for Cyclists to get the most out of your training.
If you’re heading to the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge or simply want to explore gravel around New Zealand’s North Island, our tailored Lake Taupō Cycling Training Plan gives you the structure and focus you need for rolling terrain.
Designed with the Taupō region in mind, this plan helps you build the endurance, bike handling, and stamina required for an 160 km fun ride. It’s ideal if you’re chasing adventure with scenery, not just speed.
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La Castellón Gravel Race – Spain’s UCI Gravel World Series Opener
The La Castellón Gravel Race launches the 2025 UCI Gravel World Series and has quickly become one of Europe’s most sought-after destination gravel races. Set in the mountain region surrounding Llucena, Castellón, this event delivers a true test of endurance and skill against the dramatic backdrop of eastern Spain. Scheduled for February 2026, it marks the first major international gravel event of the year and offers riders the chance to secure early-season UCI points while experiencing authentic Mediterranean landscapes.
The main course covers 97 km with roughly 2,500 m of climbing, while the shorter route spans 85 km with about 2,100 m of elevation gain. Riders face a surface composition of approximately 72% gravel and 28% paved roads, creating a mix of fast sections, rocky climbs, and technical descents. The course starts and finishes in Llucena, weaving through forest tracks, olive groves, and rugged limestone terrain that makes the region famous among Spanish cyclists. It’s a demanding but beautifully balanced route, making it one of the best gravel races worth traveling for on the gravel race calendar 2025/2026.
Beyond the course, Castellón’s local charm completes the experience. Riders enjoy mild winter temperatures, traditional Valencian cuisine, and warm hospitality in this cyclist-friendly region. The race’s proximity to major hubs like Valencia and Castellón airports also makes travel easy, especially for those planning an early-season gravel bike event travel trip. Between its UCI status, scenic landscapes, and technical riding, La Castellón Gravel Race has all the ingredients of a must-do European gravel event.
Rider tips: Bring a gravel setup that balances speed and durability (38–42 mm tubeless tyres work best for Castellón’s rocky terrain). Layer clothing for cool early mornings that give way to mild afternoon warmth. Consider staying in nearby Llucena or Alcora to explore the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park before race day. For riders who want a race that mixes elite competition with Mediterranean adventure, La Castellón Gravel Race is the perfect early-season challenge.
Many of the rides featured in this article sit around the 80‑ to 100‑km mark—or can be adapted to it. If you’re aiming for one of these events and want to hit the 100‑km mark strong, check out our 100 km Cycling Training Plan .
This plan includes structure for endurance rides, pacing workouts, and gravel‑specific segments—perfect if you’re building up to a challenge like the 83 km Gravel Grind in Taupō or the 85 km option at Castellón. It’s about mastering that 100‑km benchmark with confidence and enjoyment.
Choose a plan that fits your goal, stay consistent, and ride smarter.
Explore the 100 km PlanCompare the Best Gravel Races Worth Traveling For
Now that we’ve explored some of the top gravel races worth traveling for, here’s a quick comparison of key races from around the world. Whether you’re seeking rugged volcanic landscapes, high-altitude challenges, or scenic coastal tracks, each of these events offers a unique experience for every type of gravel cyclist. Use the table below to help you find the race that matches your adventure goals and travel preferences!
👉 Swipe to view full table
| Race | Location | Date | Distance Options | Elevation Gain | Surface Mix / Notes | Event Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unbound Gravel | Emporia, Kansas, USA | May 31, 2025 | 25 mi, 50 mi, 100 mi, 200 mi, 350 mi (XL) | ≈3,085 m (10,122 ft) for 200-mile course | Majority gravel, very minimal pavement | Ultra-endurance flagship | Experienced endurance riders |
| The Rift | Hvolsvöllur, Iceland | July 19, 2025 | 200 km main course | 2,600 m | ~85% gravel on volcanic terrain | Adventure gravel challenge | Riders seeking remote, dramatic terrain |
| SBT GRVL | Steamboat Springs, Colorado, USA | June 28-29, 2025 | 99 mi (Blue), 56.7 mi (Red), 36.5 mi (Green) | 7,703 ft (≈2,348 m) for 99 mi Blue course | Gravel roads use; high-altitude venue | Community & inclusive event | All-level riders wanting scenic gravel in mountains |
| SEVEN Gravel Race | Nannup, Western Australia | May 16, 2026 | 125 km (SEVEN), 85 km (FIVE), 50 km (THREE), 25 km (ONE) | ~3,300 m (125-km course) | Gravel roads, steep climbs up to ~20% gradient | Qualifier for UCI Worlds / Festival style | Fit, adventurous riders seeking big climbs |
| Gravel Grind – Lake Taupō | Lake Taupō, North Island, New Zealand | November 29, 2025 | 83 km | 977 m | ~70% gravel / ~11% sealed / ~16% MTB trail / ~3% other | Festival gravel event | Intermediate riders wanting scenic variety |
| La Castellón Gravel Race | Llucena, Castellón, Spain | February 15, 2025 | 97 km / 85 km | 2,500 m / 2,100 m | ~72% gravel / ~28% paved roads | UCI Gravel World Series opener | Competitive early-season riders |
Note: The details provided for each race, including distances, dates, elevation gains, and surface mixes, are based on available information for the 2025/2026 season. Please check the official race websites for any updates or changes in course lengths, dates, and other important race details. Race formats, entry options, and exact specifications may evolve closer to the event dates.
Conclusion: Ready to Ride the Best Gravel Races in 2025/2026
As we’ve explored, the world of gravel racing offers a range of exciting, scenic, and challenging events for riders of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a high-altitude adventure in Colorado, a volcanic challenge in Iceland, or a Mediterranean escape in Spain, there’s no shortage of destination gravel races worth traveling for. These events combine endurance, stunning landscapes, and the joy of cycling on rugged terrain, creating unforgettable experiences.
Choosing your next gravel race can be as thrilling as the ride itself. With the 2025/2026 gravel race calendar packed with world-class events, now is the time to plan your travel, book those flights, and start training. Whether you’re seeking a tough challenge like the Unbound Gravel or a stunning, off-road adventure like The Rift, each race offers something unique that’ll push your limits and make lasting memories.
So, which race are you signing up for next? Let us know in the comments or share your gravel racing goals with the community. And remember, no matter where you ride, the gravel journey is just as rewarding as crossing the finish line.
