Top Gravel Cycling Events for 2025

Gravel cycling continues its explosive growth in 2025, with more events, bigger prize purses, and increasing international appeal. Whether you're a seasoned gravel grinder or looking to experience your first off-road adventure, this comprehensive guide showcases the most anticipated gravel events of 2025 that deserve a spot on your cycling calendar.

Life Time Grand Prix Series: The Premier Gravel Circuit

The Life Time Grand Prix returns for its fourth season in 2025, featuring a $380,000 prize purse evenly split between men and women. This prestigious series combines three gravel and three mountain bike races, creating the ultimate test for off-road cyclists.

Key Life Time Grand Prix Events:

1. Sea Otter Classic Gravel - April 10, 2025 (Monterey, CA)
   • Kicking off the 2025 series with a challenging gravel course through Fort Ord National Monument
   • New for 2025: Previously a mountain bike event, now converted to gravel
2. UNBOUND Gravel 200 - May 31, 2025 (Emporia, KS)
   • The crown jewel of American gravel racing through the rugged Flint Hills
   • Mandatory event for Life Time Grand Prix participants
   • Registration through lottery: Opens November 1-15, 2024, with winners notified November 21
3. Leadville Trail 100 MTB - August 9, 2025 (Leadville, CO)
   • Legendary high-altitude mountain bike race testing riders at elevations over 10,000 feet
4. Chequamegon MTB Festival - September 13, 2025 (Cable, WI)
   • Fast and flowing 40-mile mountain bike race through Wisconsin's northwoods
5. Little Sugar MTB - October 12, 2025 (Bentonville, AR)
   • New addition to the 2025 series showcasing Bentonville's world-class trail system
6. Big Sugar Gravel - October 18, 2025 (Bentonville, AR)
   • Series finale featuring 100 miles of challenging Ozark gravel
   • Serves as the tie-breaker for the overall Grand Prix standings

For 2025, the Grand Prix has introduced a wildcard system, with three men and three women earning series entry based on their performances at Sea Otter Gravel and UNBOUND Gravel.

UNBOUND Gravel: The Ultimate Gravel Challenge

UNBOUND Gravel stands as the world's premier gravel event, drawing over 4,000 riders to Emporia, Kansas, from May 29 to June 1, 2025. Born in 2006 with just 34 riders, this event has become the benchmark for gravel racing globally.

UNBOUND Gravel Distances:

• UNBOUND Gravel XL: 350 miles of unsupported racing (May 30, 2025)
• UNBOUND Gravel 200: The signature distance and part of the Life Time Grand Prix (May 31, 2025)
• UNBOUND Gravel 100: Perfect middle-distance challenge
• UNBOUND Gravel 50: Great entry-level option
• UNBOUND Gravel 25: Community ride for all abilities

Registration runs through a lottery system open from November 1-15, 2024. Pro tip: Volunteer at the 2025 event to earn guaranteed entry for 2026!

UCI Gravel World Championships: The Rainbow Jersey

The 2025 UCI Gravel World Championships will take place on October 11-12, 2025, in Maastricht, Zuid-Limburg, Netherlands. This marks a change from the originally planned Nice, France location that was canceled.

The women's elite race will be held on Saturday, October 11, with men's elite competition on Sunday, October 12. Age group categories race on both days, giving amateur riders the rare opportunity to compete for a world championship on the same courses as professionals.

To qualify, riders must finish in the top 25% of their age group at one of the UCI Gravel World Series events held throughout 2025. The series features over 30 qualifying races worldwide, making this truly a global championship.

European Gravel Classics

The Traka (Girona, Spain) - May 2025

Known as "Europe's UNBOUND," The Traka offers three challenging routes (100km, 200km, and 360km) through the picturesque landscape surrounding Girona. With many professional cyclists calling Girona home, expect a star-studded start list and technical, beautiful routes.

Wish One Gravel Race (Millau, France) - June 2025

This UCI Gravel World Series qualifier takes riders through the stunning terrain of southern France, combining challenging climbs with spectacular scenery.

3Rides Gravel Race (Aachen, Germany) - September 2025

A technical European gravel challenge with routes crossing the borders of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Must-Ride North American Events

Barry Roubaix (Hastings, MI) - April 12, 2025

One of America's oldest and largest gravel races, Barry Roubaix predates the "gravel" moniker and offers a fast, early-season test on Michigan's rolling terrain.

SBT GRVL (Steamboat Springs, CO) - July 2025

After securing new permits, SBT GRVL returns in 2025 with a completely redesigned format featuring a non-competitive ride around Steamboat Springs on Saturday and a UCI-style circuit race in Hayden on Sunday.

Rebecca's Private Idaho (Ketchum, ID) - August 2025

Hosted by ultra-endurance legend Rebecca Rusch, this unique multi-day stage race offers various challenge levels through the beautiful terrain of Idaho's Sun Valley.

Gravel Worlds (Lincoln, NE) - August 2025

Despite the name, this is not affiliated with the UCI but offers a grassroots celebration of gravel cycling with a strong community focus.

The Rift (Iceland) - July 2025

For those seeking adventure beyond North America, this 200km race through Iceland's volcanic landscapes offers truly unique terrain, including black lava fields and stunning mountain backdrops.

How to Prepare for Your 2025 Gravel Season

Equipment Selection

The right gravel bike setup makes all the difference. Most events feature a mix of rough gravel, smooth dirt roads, and occasional pavement sections. Consider:

• Tire selection: Most riders choose 40-45mm tires for versatility
• Gearing: 1x drivetrains with wide-range cassettes remain popular
• Hydration: Extended storage capacity is essential, especially for longer events

Training Recommendations

Specific gravel training plans should include:

• Long endurance rides on similar terrain to your target event
• Technical skills practice for loose surfaces
• Heat acclimation for summer events
• Altitude preparation for high-elevation races like Leadville

Registration Strategy

With many premier events using lottery systems, develop a multi-pronged approach:

1. Mark your calendar with registration dates (most open 6-8 months before the event)
2. Consider charity entries for guaranteed access to sold-out events
3. Look for qualifier events that offer automatic entry to major races
4. Join event mailing lists for early notification of registration openings

Conclusion

The 2025 gravel calendar offers more diversity and opportunity than ever before. From the rugged Flint Hills of Kansas to the stunning mountain landscapes of the Alps, gravel cycling continues to push boundaries while maintaining its welcoming, inclusive spirit.

Whether you're chasing podiums or simply seeking adventure on the less-traveled path, the gravel scene has something for everyone. Start planning your 2025 season now, as registration for many premier events opens soon!