Last Updated August 19, 2024--
The 2025 event date is not confirmed -- Scheduled for July each year, this year’s Ned Gravel event in Nederland, Colorado, is an unmissable adventure and is aimed to be its biggest and best yet, emphasizing inclusivity, challenge, and sheer fun. What sets Ned Gravel apart is its commitment to welcoming riders of all backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunities for elite men and women, and offering a course that tests even the most seasoned riders while still being approachable to beginners. Strambecco rates Ned Gravel as one of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events In Colorado and one of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Rockies region.
Ned Gravel was founded out of a passion for cycling and exploring the beautiful Nederland area. From its inception, the event has aimed to promote diversity and inclusion in bike racing, creating opportunities for women and BIPOC athletes. Nederland's rich history, from paleo-Indians to Ute and Arapaho tribes and European prospectors, is reflected in the race routes, which pass through mining roads and ghost towns. The event embodies the spirit of Nederland's dreamers, misfits, and marginalized communities, welcoming all participants.
Ned Gravel is presented by Peak to Peak Endurance, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to supporting youth programs in the greater Nederland area. Based in Colorado's Front Range, Peak to Peak Endurance is passionate about connecting people to the outdoors. Participation in Ned Gravel has enabled hundreds of children to engage in cycling, sports, and innovative outdoor education programs at Nederland Elementary School.
Event & Course Info
Nestled in the scenic beauty of the Peak to Peak region, the Ned Gravel event offers five different race options, with each course meticulously designed to showcase the rugged beauty and historical charm of the area. Routes pass through ghost towns, mines, and traverse up mountain trails, all situated at elevations between 8,000 and 10,300 feet. Thanks to Slipstream AI, riders can get a peek at what type of technical terrain they will encounter on the course at Ned Gravel.
The Ultra Course, spanning 100 miles with 10,300 feet of elevation gain, is the ultimate challenge for the most hardcore gravel riders. With intense climbs, technical sections, and stunning high-altitude scenery, the Ultra Course is not for the faint-hearted. Key aid stations include Apex Valley Rd (unmanned), Tin Shed Sports, CR 103, Rowena (hydration only, unmanned), Sunset (hydration only, unmanned), and Gold Hill. This event has a field limit of 140 riders.
The Tungsten Course, at 66 miles and 7,500 feet of elevation gain, provides a formidable challenge with steep climbs and technical descents. Aid stations for this course include CR 103, Rowena, and Gold Hill.
The Gold Course, perfect for intermediate riders, covers 40 miles with 4,000 feet of elevation gain and offers a mix of challenging climbs and scenic routes through historic sites. Aid stations include CR 103, Rowena, and Gold Hill.
The Silver Course, designed for beginners or those looking for a less intense ride, spans 20 miles with 1,500 feet of elevation gain and is a great introduction to gravel riding with fewer technical sections and a more relaxed pace. The aid station for this course is CR 103.
The Bronze Course, (new for 2024) is for our "gravel curious" friends - those new to gravel or who do not want the pressure of a “race” situation as well as a great option for older kids. It features 11 miles and 1,200 ft. of elevation gain.
The Ultra Course has a strict cutoff time of 12 hours, with intermediate checkpoints to ensure riders are on pace. All races will begin with a neutral start, ensuring a safe and controlled rollout from the starting line. Ultra riders will be escorted to the West Magnolia Parking lot, while other courses will be led to Hurricane Hill.
To ensure a successful ride, use at least a 38mm tire, preferably tubeless, and consider a gravel or mountain bike. Carry two water bottles and enough nutrition to last between aid stations, which could be up to 90 minutes apart. Prepare for hot weather but bring a rain jacket in case of afternoon thunderstorms. Helmets are mandatory, and Ultra riders must have lights. Be aware of local wildlife and ride cautiously through intersections.
After conquering the course, relax and celebrate your achievement with fellow riders. Enjoy the expo, savor delicious food from local trucks, and toast your success with a well-earned drink. The post-race atmosphere is all about community, fun, and celebrating the incredible challenge you've just completed.
Awards will be presented shortly after each race finishes. Every finisher receives a free beer or drink of choice, with additional beverages available for purchase. Stick around for the expo, which features live music from The Matt Flaherty Band, food trucks like Baus Burger and Bohemian Wurst, and plenty of vendor stalls showcasing top outdoor brands. The expo runs from 10 AM to 6 PM, featuring music, beer, and vendors.
Registration opens first for Women, BIPOC, Non-Binary Athletes, and Paracyclists before opening to the general public. To qualify for the Ned Head Challenge, riders must complete both the Tungsten Course and the NedNed Trail half marathon in September. Check out all of the nitty-gritty details in the Rider Guide.
In summary, the Ned Gravel event is a pinnacle experience for any gravel cycling enthusiast, combining challenging courses, breathtaking scenery, and a welcoming community spirit. Mark your calendar and get ready to take on the peaks and valleys of Nederland, Colorado!
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
More coming soon! But here are a few of our local favorite places to eat: Crosscut Pizza, New Moon Bakery, Kathmandu, Salto Coffee Works, Decent Bagel, and the Mountain People's Co-op for groceries and grab-n-go items.
There are a few easy kid activities within walking distance like the Carousel of Happiness, Wild Bear Nature Center and Chipeta Park.
Related Events
For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of Colorado and the broader Rocky Mountain region, be sure to check out our full list of Strambecco Best-rated guides:
- Best Trail Running Race Events in the Rockies
- Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Rockies
- Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in Colorado
- Best Mountain Bike Race Events in the Rockies
- Best Mountain Biking Race Events in Colorado
- Best Road Cycling Race Events in the Rockies
- Best Road Cycling Race Events in Colorado
- Best Nordic Ski Races in the Rocky Mountains
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
