Event Series: Grasshopper Adventure Series

Huffmaster Hopper 2025 – Rated

Name: Huffmaster Hopper 2025 – Rated
Start: 2025-02-22T00:00:00-05:00
End: 2025-02-22T23:59:59-05:00
Location: Maxwell, California

February 22, 2025

Updated November 5, 2024

The classic annual Huffmaster Hopper takes place in Maxwell, CA and is produced by notable Hopper Adventures, marking the second leg of its six-part Grasshopper Adventure Series. Sandwiched between Hwy 5 and the serene beauty of the Mendocino National Forest, this event promises a unique blend of rolling gravel roads and untouched tarmac terrain. Offering two distinct route options — an 89-mile adventure and a 54-mile journey — participants will find themselves navigating routes that encapsulate the raw essence of gravel riding: half gravel, half pavement, and an experience wholly unforgettable. The team at Strambecco considers the Huffmaster Hopper to be one of our best gravel cycling race events in California and one of the best gravel cycling race events in the Northwest.

Event & Course Info

With less climbing than a typical Hopper, you will be treated to an adventure few have seen on two wheels at the Huffmaster Hopper. The event kick-starts with staggered beginnings at 9 am.

Huffmaster Full Route: The journey commences from Maxwell High School, propelling riders north and west on a 25-mile flat paved stretch, which might be challenged by its headwinds. Post the initial stretch, riders will experience a gradual climb between miles 25 and 40, culminating in a rigorous gravel ascent from miles 40 to 43. The peak at county road #303 at 1700 ft offers an exhilarating descent into Stony Creek Valley. With a gravel patch from mile 46 to 53 that elevates from 1000-1800 ft, riders will eventually merge into Sites-Lagoda Rd, oscillating between pavement and gravel terrain until they reach the "town" of Sites at mile 80. The final leg comprises 5 miles of pavement post-Sites, veering right into a gravel route towards the finish line.

Mini-Huffmaster: Venturing westward towards Sites and subsequently to Leesville-Ladoga Rd, it joins the others riding the Huffmaster full route. This shorter route still offers a punch with a steep climb between miles 14 and 17.5, which sees an elevation from 550 ft to 1800 ft. Boasting approximately 25 miles of gravel, especially on Leesville-Lagoda Rd and Huffmaster, this route guarantees a condensed yet exhilarating experience.

Riders are advised to equip their bikes with 38-40 tires, with a preference for slick or semi-slick options. While most of the gravel terrains are smooth, certain stretches could be challenged with deep gravel and unstable corners. Maintaining the bike in prime condition is key. An essential toolkit is recommended, encompassing items like tubes, CO2, a small pump, Dyna Plug, chain tool, and tire boots. Rolling support will be present, but riders should be prepared for basic repairs.

For the long course Huffmaster, feed zones are strategically placed at mile 45 and mile 68, while the Mini Huffmaster offers a feed zone at mile 32. Riders can leave labeled bottles with NorCal BikeSport at the beginning, which will be available at the feed zone.

Podium positions will be awarded to the top 3 overall male and female participants, with cash prizes of $500, $300, and $200. With a field of 600 participants, the ride promises camaraderie, challenge, and a memorable adventure.

Area Accommodations & Things to Do

While there is no official partner hotel for the Huffmaster Hopper, Granzella’s Inn and the Traveler's Inn are options in the Maxwell area, in addition to a handful of vacation rentals in the area. If you enjoy camping, free camping is available Friday and Saturday night in Maxwell by the rodeo grounds, however guests must leave Sunday morning as there will be another event taking place. Other camping options in the broader vicinity include Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area, and East Park Reservoir.

The culinary scene of Maxwell, CA, is a blend of traditional American fare and local specialties, with a selection of quaint eateries that reflect the town's agricultural roots and close-knit community. This small town offers a mix of family-owned restaurants and cafes, emphasizing farm-to-table ingredients and regional flavors. Local favorites include Sour Rob's, Mimi's Tacos, and Granzella’s bar in Williams.

Nestled in the heart of Colusa County, the quaint town of Maxwell, CA, boasts more than meets the eye, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. While February paints many places in frosty hues, Maxwell's strategic location offers a blend of mild winter escapades and adventures. Just to the west of Maxwell lies the expansive Mendocino National Forest, a haven for hikers. With diverse ecosystems and terrains ranging from mountainous landscapes to dense forests, this national treasure offers trails for all skill levels. Popular trails like the Snow Mountain Wilderness Trail are especially inviting in February, as the cooler temperatures make for a pleasant trekking experience.

Located near Maxwell, the Stony Gorge Reservoir, with its calm waters, is perfect for kayaking. The serene environment, with gentle ripples and the soft winter sun, offers a tranquil kayaking experience surrounded by picturesque landscapes.

While a less active option, the Colusa National Wildlife Refuge is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts, especially in February when migrations peak. This refuge is abuzz with avian activity, from the majestic Snow Geese to the Northern Pintails. With thousands of waterfowl converging in the wetlands, it offers a mesmerizing spectacle against the backdrop of serene waters and expansive landscapes. The refuge offers an auto tour route, allowing visitors to explore its beauty from the comfort of their vehicles, alongside walking trails for those eager to venture on foot.

Related Events

Huffmaster Hopper is produced by Hopper Adventures, known as the US’s longest-running gravel/mixed-terrain adventure series producer. Whether looking for races or adventures, each event allows you to explore little-known paved, dirt, and single-track in Sonoma, Mendocino, and Humbolt County. These are eclectic races designed to push riders to the limit without pushing them over. The 2024 four-event Adventure Series events run annually from January to May, including Low Gap; Huffmaster Hopper; Lake Sonoma MTB; and Ukiah-Mendo Epic. Riders must complete at least 3 Hoppers to compete for the Series overall. The points are calculated based on the placement in each race, with the Lake Sonoma MTB offering +10 points towards series overall in all categories, riders compete for the Hopper Super Hero King of the Universe title in their age groups. Attending specific races, including the long course in Huffmaster and Ukiah-Mendo Epic, is crucial for those aiming for series points. Special events on their calendar include the USAL Hopper: The Lost Coast, Lake Sonoma Enduro, and the Mendo Hopper. They are all considered to be some of the Best Gravel Grinders in NorCal. Past events they have produced include King Ridge; Sherwood Adventure; and Humbolt Hopper. There is a competition for the Hopper Super King of the Universe title based on overall points leaders for riders who complete five Hoppers.

If you are looking to extend your fitness into the Spring, consider the famed Belgian Waffle Ride California (San Diego), which is part of the highly respected North American Belgian Waffle Ride Series and the final leg of the Tripel Crown of Gravel Series. Also part of the BWR Series is the Belgian Waffle Ride British Columbia in May.

For multi-sport athletes, check out other Strambecco best-rated events taking place in California, such as Levi’s Gran Fondo from Bike Monkey or the Mount Diablo Challenge from Valley Spokesmen Bicycing Club, considered to be some of the Best Road Cycling Events in California, the Northwest & Southwest. Mountain bikers will also appreciate top tier events in the area such as Boggs MTB and the Downieville Classic.

Multi-sport athletes looking for other premier races and events in California and the broader Northwest region can take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best rated event guides: