The Lost and Found Gravel Festival 2026 is a celebration of Gravel Cycling in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The event takes place in the Lost Sierra, one of California’s most beautiful and vast alpine valleys. This mixed-surface cycling event offers a blend of pavement, dirt roads, gravel roads, and historic railroad grades. Strambecco has named the event as one of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in California, and it benefits Sierra Buttes Trails Stewardship.

New for this year, the rugged, rocky final descent of previous years is out, but the beauty of the course focus will remain! The Lost & Found Gravel Festival 2026 offers three distinct routes catering to a variety of riders, each promising a unique blend of challenge, adventure, and scenic beauty. The Full Bull or long option for ‘Serious Riders and Racers’ is designed for those looking to test their limits. With 96 miles and an impressive 7,688 feet of elevation gain and 80% dirt trails, this route is perfect for race pacers and fit rider athletes seeking a strenuous challenge.

For those who prefer a long-ride experience while soaking in the views, the 64-mile Mid-Moo or medium course knows as the ‘Adventure Rider’ route is ideal. This route offers a century road ride equivalent with a 4,928-foot elevation gain and 70% dirt trails. Both the Mid Moo & Full Bull also begin by climbing toward Smith Peak, and once achieved, there are excellent views of Lake Davis.

The third option, Half Calf or short, is the 40-mile ‘Good Times Rider’ route is tailored for participants seeking a social and scenic ride. With 2,503 feet of elevation gain and 35% gravel, this route promises laughs and great views.

The Lost and Found Gravel Festival is now part of the Gravel Earth Series. A global gravel series with a prize purse of nearly $40,000 and includes 25 events in 15 countries.

It is essential to choose the right bike for the Lost and Found Gravel Festival. The Sierra requires wider tires with more tread. The recommended tire width for cyclocross bikes is at least 40mm, like WTB Raddler, Riddler, or Resolute tires. Riding a light, fast, rigid mountain bike with 2.0 tires wouldn’t be a bad choice either, especially if you are more comfortable on a mountain bike.

The Lost and Found Gravel Festival is not just about cycling. It is also a celebration of mountain life. A Welcome party and festival atmosphere brings all participants together with live music, snacks, and adult beverages. Saturday is a day of the rides with various start times for each course. Post-ride recovery starts mid-day with a post-ride meal, awards ceremony, and live music from several artists throughout the day and into the evening.

The best part of the event is that the Lost and Found Gravel Festival generates funds that are reinvested in the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship. This organization is dedicated to creating sustainable communities centered around recreational activities by focusing on stewardship, job opportunities, and hosting other exceptional events like the Downieville Classic.