Last Updated September 15, 2024
The 2025 event date is not confirmed -- The Trans-Sylvania Gravel Epic Stage Race, organized by Trans-Sylvania Productions, is a premier event for gravel cycling enthusiasts in the Mid-Atlantic. Held in the rugged and scenic landscapes of central Pennsylvania, this race offers a unique blend of challenging terrain, beautiful forest trails, and a strong community spirit. Strambecco rates the Trans-Sylvania Gravel Epic Stage Race as one of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Mid Atlantic and one of the Best Cycling Race Events in Pennsylvania. The event's multiple-stage format allows participants to test their endurance and skills over several days, making it a standout experience in the gravel cycling world.
Event Course & Info
The Trans-Sylvania Gravel Epic offers both 4-day and 2-day versions, with long and short course options for each stage. The race typically takes place in the first or second week of August, featuring diverse and challenging routes through Pennsylvania's forests and state parks.
The first stage, located at the Seven Mountains Scout Camp, features both long and short courses that are identical. Participants will cover 47.5 miles (76 km) with an elevation gain of 4,270 feet (1,301 meters), and an aid station is available around mile 28. The cutoff time for this stage is 6 hours.
The second stage, set in the Moshannon Forest, offers distinct long and short courses. The long course spans 64.3 miles (103 km) with an elevation gain of 4,820 feet (1,469 meters) and includes aid stations at miles 25 and 44. The short course covers 42.0 miles (68 km) with an elevation gain of 3,266 feet (995 meters), with an aid station at mile 22. Participants have 7 hours to complete this stage.
The third stage features a long course of 62.4 miles (100 km) with an elevation gain of 6,905 feet (2,105 meters), including aid stations at miles 18 and 37. The short course is 43.7 miles (70 km) with an elevation gain of 4,485 feet (1,367 meters) and an aid station at mile 18. The cutoff time is 7 hours.
The final stage includes a long course of 57.0 miles (92 km) with an elevation gain of 5,296 feet (1,614 meters), with aid stations at miles 15 and 37. The short course is 35.3 miles (57 km) with an elevation gain of 3,158 feet (963 meters) and an aid station at mile 15. Participants have 6.5 hours to complete this stage.
Participants can choose from various categories: the 4-day version long course includes Open Men, Open Women, Men 40-49, Women 40-49, Men 50+, Women 50+, Duo Co-Ed, Duo Men, and Duo Women. The 4-day version short course includes Open Men, Men 45+, Open Women, Women 45+, and Experience. The 2-day version long course includes Open Men, Men 45+, Open Women, and Women 45+. The 2-day version short course includes Open Men, Men 45+, Open Women, and Women 45+. Duo teams must ride together, with combined times, and a time penalty if members finish more than three minutes apart.
The Experience option offers a non-competitive way to participate, ideal for those looking to enjoy the ride without the pressure of competition. Participants in this category can choose to ride on select days and still receive a finisher award if they complete all stages.
Volunteers are essential to the event's success, and the organizers offer several perks for those who help out. Volunteers can earn $100 race credit towards the 2025 Trans-Sylvania Epic Stage Race, lodging in a cabin, meals, and race swag.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Where to Stay in Happy Valley
Camping on-site at the Scout Camp is included with the entry of Trans-Sylvania Gravel Epic Stage Race, and there are options to upgrade to cabins, private or shared rooms, as alternatives to RV or tent camping. Although less convenient for racers, there are vacation rentals in the area to explore if you prefer a more home-like experience.
Dining in Happy Valley
Breakfast and dinner are provided daily at Trans-Sylvania Gravel Epic Stage Race; however, if you'd like to branch out to explore food in the broader area, it offers a quaint and intimate culinary scene that reflects its rural charm and agricultural roots. The area is known for its farm-to-table dining experiences, featuring local produce and artisanal foods at small eateries and seasonal farmers' markets, providing a taste of authentic Pennsylvanian cuisine. Some favorites include Elk Creek Cafe + Aleworks, Red Horse Tavern, and Hublersburg Inn.
Outdoor Activities around Happy Valley
Spring Mills, Pennsylvania, and the broader Happy Valley region is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor opportunities, making it an ideal destination for athletes who enjoy nature and adventure. As the landscape awakens with vibrant spring life in May, the region offers a variety of activities that cater to different athletic interests. Explore the lush landscapes of Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park, where trails wind through more than 1,500 acres of forests and fields. Hikers can enjoy the unique mix of natural beauty and wildlife observation. The park features various hiking paths that range in difficulty, providing both serene walks and more challenging hikes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding woodland and water features.
Known for its exceptional trout fishing, Penns Creek is a must-visit for outdoor athletes who enjoy fly fishing. The creek's waters are abundant with wild trout, especially in May, when the aquatic life is vibrant. The natural scenic beauty and the rhythmic challenge of fly fishing make this spot particularly appealing to those looking for both relaxation and sport.
The picturesque roads of the Nittany Valley offer an exhilarating experience for road cyclists. With a mix of rolling hills and flat stretches, the routes around Spring Mills provide both a scenic and physical challenge, ideal for cyclists of all levels. May's mild weather and the lush greenery of the newly bloomed landscape make this a delightful time for long-distance rides and leisurely explorations alike.
Related Events
Trans-Sylvania Productions also produces a sister event in May, which is an equally epic mountain bike stage race called the Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic. Organizers again offer a two or 4-day option. The total distance covered in the race varies from year to year but generally ranges from 200 to 300 miles while each stage presents a unique challenge, featuring different distances and elevation profiles. Participants must navigate through a variety of terrain, including steep climbs, thrilling descents, and winding singletrack. The race attracts some of the top talents in the United States cross-country mountain biking scene and sees many up-and-comers come to prove themselves on their professional Mountain bike journeys.
Multi-sport athletes looking for other premier races and events in Pennsylvania and the broader Mid-Atlantic region can take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best rated event guides:
- Best Road Cycling Race Events in the Mid-Atlantic
- Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Mid-Atlantic
- Best Trail Running Race Events in the Mid-Atlantic
- Best Mountain Bike Race Events in the Mid-Atlantic
- Best Cycling Race Events in Pennsylvania
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