Gravel racing recommendations have gotten overwhelming with new events popping up everywhere. As someone who’s raced gravel for five years now, I learned everything there is to know about which events are worth your entry fee. Today, I will share it all with you.
That’s what makes honest race reviews endearing to us gravel converts — the right event can be transformative while the wrong one is just suffering without reward.
What Makes Gravel Racing Different
Probably should have led with this section, honestly — understanding the format helps pick the right event.
Mix of dirt roads, gravel paths, occasional pavement. Self-supported usually means carrying your own food and tools. Distances range from 50-mile introductions to 200-mile sufferfests. Less tactics than road racing, more pure endurance and navigation.
The Big Events
But which races actually matter? In essence, a handful define the scene.
Unbound Gravel (formerly Dirty Kanza): The original. 200 miles through Kansas Flint Hills. Hot, remote, relentless. Finishing feels like genuine accomplishment. Start here if you want the iconic experience.
SBT GRVL: Steamboat Springs, Colorado. High altitude, stunning mountain views, surprisingly competitive field. The scenery almost makes the climbing bearable.
Belgian Waffle Ride: Multiple locations now. Road, gravel, and dirt mixed together in creative ways. Hardest “waffle” you’ll ever earn.
More Accessible Options
I’m apparently in the camp that thinks not everyone needs to start with 200 miles. Frustrated by gatekeeping in the gravel community, I encourage new racers to find approachable events first.
The Mid South: Oklahoma. Notorious for mud when weather turns. Manageable distance for first-timers in dry years.
Gravel Worlds: Nebraska. Rolling hills, variable weather, strong community vibe. Less intimidating than the marquee events.
Local events often provide the best introduction. Smaller fields, familiar roads, lower pressure.
Gear That Actually Matters
Tubeless tires at lower pressure. GPS navigation. Food and water capacity for your target distance. Spare tubes because tubeless doesn’t always save you. Comfortable saddle — you’ll be on it for hours.
Training Reality
Long rides on varied surfaces. Practice eating and drinking at pace. Get comfortable with your navigation device. Build core strength for rough terrain. Don’t neglect recovery — these events accumulate fatigue.
Making the Call
Start with shorter events to learn the format. Work up to marquee races once you know what you’re doing. The gravel community is generally welcoming — show up, finish, and you’re one of us. The adventure is the point, not just the finishing time.
