Fish Rock is a serious event billed as a “Road bike race for people who aren’t afraid of a little hardcore gravel.” Picked as one of our best gravel cycling events in California, the ride is named after the fabled Fish Rock Road in a stunning region of Northern California. There’s only one route for Fish Rock. It’s 72.4 miles and +9,670 feet of elevation gain. The route starts in Boonville, heading west over the beautiful low-traffic Mountain View Road to the Pacific Ocean. After turning inland, the route tackles Fish Rock, which turns to gravel and pitches upwards. For the next 25 miles, you’ll find yourself on very remote, challenging up/down gravely terrain. The event producer, Bike Monkey, recommends you ride a road bike with 28c tires or bigger. Although the course is mostly road, 14 miles of Fish Rock is time-consuming gravel. Some riders are more comfortable riding a fast gravel bike with treaded tires. Three official aid stations will support the course. Look for a great post-ride celebration hosted by co-sponsor Anderson Valley Brewing.
Bike Monkey produces some of the best road and gravel events in California and the greater Southwest, including Levi’s Gran Fondo; Rebecca’s Private Idaho; Stetina’s Pay Dirt, Truckee Dirt Fondo, Fish Rock, Heart of Gold Gravel, Hammer Road Rally; and the Bovine Classic.
Boonville is a small town in the Anderson Valley of Mendocino County, California. It is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor recreational opportunities, and laid-back atmosphere. Boonville is nestled among rolling hills and oak trees, surrounded by vineyards and forests. It is situated in a valley part of the larger Coastal Range mountain system and is approximately 20 miles from the Pacific Ocean.
Outdoor sports are a major draw to Boonville. The town is home to many hiking and biking trails, including the Anderson Valley Trail, which winds through the valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Navarro River, which runs through Boonville, is a popular spot for kayaking and fishing. Additionally, the nearby coast provides opportunities for surfing, beachcombing, and whale watching.
Accommodations in Boonville range from charming bed and breakfasts to rustic campgrounds. Visitors can stay in cozy cabins, historic hotels, or modern vacation rentals. Several wineries in the area offer lodging and wine-tasting experiences. Overall, Boonville is a great destination for those exploring Northern California’s natural beauty and enjoying outdoor activities.
Related Events
If you are looking for other great Spring gravel events, consider the famed Belgian Waffle Ride California (San Diego), part of the highly respected North American Belgian Waffle Ride Series and the final leg of the Tripel Crown of Gravel Series.
Best Gravel Cycling Events in the Southwest
Best Gravel Cycling Events in the Northwest
