Updated April 1, 2024
The Dirty Kitten Gravel Race is an adventure gravel race on private farm roads in Rapidan, VA, and the 2023 event marks its 5th anniversary. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Locust Hill Farm & Preserve encompasses over 5,000 continuous acres of privately owned land with approximately 20 miles of scenic farm roads. The course spans the historic farm on gravel & dirt roads that run along the Robinson River, pass serene creeks and ponds, weave through open fields, and cross wooded forest trails. This area is a gravel & adventure cycling enthusiast’s dream and a beautiful wildlife haven. It is one of the Best Gravel Events in the Mid-Atlantic, as rated by Strambecco.
The course is 100% unpaved, with most terrain being secluded gravel farm roads and some dirt/grass double-track sections. The roads vary from smooth, groomed sections to rough, choppy, bumpy areas with the possibility of some mud if there is rain. Keep in mind that the route is partially on a working farm, so keep your eyes out for animals and farm equipment! This is a two-day event, and there are only 500 registrant spots available. The 80 and 60-mile races take place on Saturday. The 20 and 40-mile races take place on Sunday. Each distance will have a separate starting field; however, they take place on the same 20-mile course with 1100 feet of elevation gain.
The Dirty Kitten gravel cycling event offers four different routes to suit various riding preferences. The most challenging option, the Burrito Supreme, consists of four laps, covering approximately 80 miles with a total elevation gain of around 4,000 feet. It presents a challenging and exhilarating experience. The Full Purrito involves three laps, spanning approximately 60 miles and 3,000 feet of elevation gain. This route offers a slightly shorter but still rewarding gravel adventure. For those seeking a moderate distance, the Basic Burrito encompasses two laps, totaling around 40 miles, and an elevation gain of 2000 feet. Finally, the noncompetitive Mini Purrito offers a shorter option with a single lap spanning approximately 20 miles and 1000 feet of elevation gain. As a heads up, regardless of the course you choose, prepare yourself for the Kitten Crusher Climb, an extremely steep climb around the midway point. With grades surpassing 20%, only a few skilled riders can conquer this section by riding, while most will need to dismount and hike a bike. Whether riders are looking for a grueling endurance test or a more manageable gravel ride, the Dirty Kitten event offers a range of options to suit different skill levels and preferences. The course shown below is from 2022 and this year’s event is expected to be very similar.
Your entry fee includes an amazing adventure-gravel experience, official start/finish & lap timing, full event results, partial ride support, on-course aid stations (2), post-ride food and beverages, commemorative event swag, and payout or merchandise prizes for the top finishers in each category/field.
Camping is available with registration at Freedom Fields Farm, 2 miles from the event site. There are also some great vacation rental options in the area, such as this renovated farmhouse or this private guest cottage. Partner event lodging is provided by Best Western-Culpeper Inn.
While exploring the area around Rapidan, VA, keep in mind that Shenandoah National Park is less than an hour drive away and offers bountiful outdoor activities. Also water sport lovers and fishing enthusiasts will enjoy activities on the Rapidan river. Finally, it’s not the worst idea to also throw in your mountain bike to connect with the local mountain bike organization for access to their miles of private singletrack trails.
Dirty Kitten Productions produces the Dirty Kitten Gravel Race (in partnership with a local equestrian group, Bull Run Hunt), and it serves as a partial fundraiser for their women’s “off-road” cycling team (Dirty Kitten Racing) as well as helps to raise money for local non-profit organizations in the surrounding area. They aim to offer open and inclusive events that provide a safe, enjoyable experience for all participants, believing that “cycling is for everyone” no matter age, gender, race, ethnicity, ability, or experience level. Dirty Kitten Productions also co-organizes an event in the Fall, the Grand Fondue, which takes place in Maryland and offers 50 and 100-mile routes on a mix of terrain (gravel, dirt, and road).
