Founded in 2018, the Jersey Gravel Grinder continues to gain popularity due to the all-surface adventure it offers on its meticulously curated routes, offering an appealing blend of dirt, gravel, and paved roads. The event occurs in and around Bedminster, NJ in Somerset County which is within perfect striking distance for athletes throughout the tri-state area and Philadelphia. Jersey Gravel Grinder is one of three North American Events that comprise the 16 events in the global Gran Fondo World Tour – Gravel Series. Strambecco rates it as one of the Best Gravel Events in the Mid-Atlantic.
Jersey Gravel Grinder has three routes to choose from and each year the organizer tweaks the courses to keep things interesting. Target mileage and elevation for each route is as follows: the MEGA comes with 85 miles and 6,000 feet of elevation gain. The ADVENTURE at 55 Miles and 4,500 feet of elevation gain, and the SOUL at 28 miles and 1,600 feet of elevation gain. Expect 50%-75% gravel on all routes, providing the perfect balance of terrain and the Mega route even includes optional 1 mi singletrack section in Nassau Trails.
To ensure seamless navigation, courses are well marked with abundant Arrow Signs guiding your way. Additionally, the operator offers complimentary access to their RideWithGPS event account, allowing you to follow the route with ease (if you prefer using your own bike computer, fret not, as they’ll also provide the GPX file).
In the spirit of an Enduro/Grand Fondo, you’ll compete for the fastest combined time across specific timed segments, rather than focusing on the overall ride duration. Clear signage will indicate when to unleash your full potential and mark the completion of each timed segment. You have the freedom to choose between tackling the entire route with relentless determination or savoring the scenic beauty and pushing your limits during the competitive timed segments. The Mega route boasts 6 segments, Adventure features 4 segments, and Soul offers 2 segments.
The event is produced by Ready Set Go Adventures, a regional event producer dedicated to creating fantastic race experiences spanning gravel, MTB, trail running, and triathlons including Xterra New Jersey (which we consider to be one of the Best Trail Running Events in the Mid-Atlantic). Fueling your Jersey Gravel Grinder journey is their priority, with aid stations conveniently placed every 20-25 miles. Expect a well-stocked array of essentials, including GU Gels, Stroopwaffles, Skratch Hydration Drink, water, Swedish Fish, Coke, Pickle Juice, and more. Make sure to stop by famous Aid Station #1, where you’ll be treated to mouthwatering Organic Pancakes and Real Maple Syrup. Following the race, a vibrant post-race party awaits, complete with two food trucks serving hot meals and an ice cream truck for a sweet treat. Don’t miss out on the post-race Awards Ceremony and Prize Raffles, open to all participants, as you celebrate conquering the epic Jersey Gravel Grinder!
Check out Visit Somerset County for great resources on hotels, restaurants and other places to check out while in the area. However, we also recommend looking into some of the great vacation rentals that are close by such as this epic home that would be perfect for a group.
Those with their ambitions set high can participate and earn points at all of Ready Set Go Adventures’s Gravel Grinders in 2023 to get the opportunity to be crowned Ready Set GRAVEL Adventures Series Champion based on highest total points in each age group. Point totals will be based on your top 3 results (ie. you can drop one result when you race all four). The complete race series includes the Jersey Gravel Grinder, the NY Gravel Grinder (permits pending), the Macedonia Gravel Grinder and finally the Jersey Gravel Grinder Deux.
