Last updated June 7, 2026

Event for 2027 has not been confirmed yet… The Ride Collective Series gives cyclists access to a secret stash of high desert gravel via Wild Horse Gravel 2027, offering two course options and the opportunity to compete and win significant prize money. Picked as one of Strambecco’s Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in Colorado as well as Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Rockies, the event takes place in De Beque, CO, 25 miles East of Grand Junction in Mesa County.

Wild Horse Gravel 2027 offers a unique blend of competitive cycling and rustic relaxation, hosted at the exclusive High Lonesome Ranch. This event provides cyclists with a rare opportunity to ride on terrain that is not accessible year-round, adding an element of exclusivity to the experience. Participants can enjoy a country hoedown atmosphere complete with a country cook-out, campfire, various accommodation options ranging from cabins to glamping, and live local music. Cyclists of all seriousness levels are welcome, and while some may race through at top speeds, the communal stops at well-stocked feed stations for local treats and breathtaking views ensure a shared, enjoyable experience for all.

The challenging Wild Horse Gravel long course (65-mile gravel course with ~5500 feet of elevation gain), starts with an easy ride through De Beque before going into the backcountry of all trail conditions. Expect a little bit of everything, including steep climbs, downhills, and mixed terrain. Riders will enjoy scenic views of rock formations like Valley of the Goblins, and as of 2022, there will be a ride around Horse Mountain Range for further visual inspiration. Wild Horse Gravel also offers a shorter ride for those who want to stay on a gravel trail for one big loop 30 miles around the High Lonesome Ranch property. There is a climb at a moderate grade for the first 14 miles, with the last half of the ride as a flowy downhill to the finish line. The short course covers 30 miles and covers over 2,600 ft. of elevation gain.

Registration includes many perks. There are refreshments and support throughout the ride, including an event t-shirt, bike plate, and race bib. Located at High Lonesome Ranch, the event conveniently takes place in one location the full weekend, kicking off Friday evening with an Expo, packet pick-up, bike tech, food trucks, beer garden, and fire pit. Saturday, race day, offers breakfast, bike tech, and hydration stations before the mass starts. The race starts at 8:00 am, but other ranch activities start at 11:00 am with Expo, food truck, and massages, followed by ranch activities available for participants and supporters. Stationary steer roping, fly casting, and swimming are available alongside country BBQ cookout, beer garden, and live music. Podium Presentation and Awards begin at 3:30 pm, where long course participants win cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.

The Ride Collective is a portfolio of eight professionally produced events and races in both Colorado and New Mexico. TRC strives to create an inclusive culture where cyclists of almost all abilities can enjoy the simple pleasures of riding a bicycle. The Ride Collective events range from 300 to 3,000 participants, with a portion of event proceeds benefiting local and regional nonprofit organizations.