Last Updated June 13, 2024
The Pine Island Gravel Odyssey 2025 was formerly known as the Gold Rush Gravel Grinder and is rated by Strambecco as one of the Best Gravel Cycling Race Events in the Midwest and one of the Best Cycling Race Events in South Dakota. This is South Dakota’s premier gravel event, which operates under a special use permit for the Black Hills National Forest and is organized by Ridge Rider Racing.
Event & Course Info
The Pine Island Gravel Odyssey 2025 offers three distinct routes designed to challenge and delight cyclists of all levels, set against the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills National Forest. The Ponderosa Escapade,
The Ponderosa Escapade is the most challenging option at ~100 miles and the main event. This single-loop route will take you through the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. The event will be a fun yet challenging endurance gravel race/ride using open public-access gravel and dirt roads through the Black Hills National Forest and into Wyoming. The course consists of mostly gravel, dirt, possible mud, and a bit of pavement while rolling over the open prairie, meandering through beautiful canyons with flowing creeks, exploring the deep forest, and climbing to several spectacular vistas. This race is intended for people familiar with gravel riding that can average a minimum ten mph pace. This is a challenging race with nearly 5,600 ft. of elevation gain.
The race starts at 6:30 am at Spearfish City Park with a 5-mile neutral roll-out escorted out of town, officially beginning once on the gravel. There are three aid stations along the route: at mile 32 (cut-off at 9:45 am), offering water, food, and Heed sports drink; at mile 55 (cut-off at 1:30 pm), where riders must check-in and can meet their support crew; and at mile 72 (cut-off at 3:45 pm), providing more supplies. A support crew is highly recommended, as they can meet riders at the Trailhead Lodge checkpoint. SAG vehicles and on-course patrol are available for a fee if needed.
The Limber Excursion, at 65 miles, offers a slightly shorter but still challenging ride (4,300 ft. of elevation gain) through the beautiful landscapes of the Black Hills. This race starts at 6:45 am at Spearfish City Park, with a 5-mile neutral roll-out, and officially begins on the gravel. There are two aid stations: at mile 30 (cut-off at 10:30 am), offering water, food, and Heed sports drink, and at mile 47 (cut-off at 2:30 pm), where riders can restock and enjoy a downhill ride to the finish. Support crews are highly recommended, though they cannot follow the course.
The Pine Cone Frolic, a 45-mile non-competitive ride, focuses on the fun and challenge of finishing with over 3,000 ft of elevation gain. It’s the only course allowing E-Bikes, which are incorporated into the same rules and start time. The race begins at 7:00 am at Spearfish City Park with a 4-mile neutral roll-out. One aid station at mile 20 (cut-off at 11:00 am) provides food, water, and Heed sports drinks. Support crews are recommended and can meet riders at the designated aid station on Iron Creek Lake/Beaver Creek Road.
The shorter options are about fun and the challenge of just finishing. Everyone who makes the cut-offs makes the check-point and crosses the finish line will get a finishers award. If you are new to gravel riding/racing, these are great events to start with; however, don't be fooled; these courses are still challenging.
Each route at the Pine Island Gravel Odyssey promises a unique and rewarding experience, blending endurance, natural beauty, and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. Whether tackling the Ponderosa Escapade, the Limber Excursion, or enjoying the Pine Cone Frolic, this event will surely create lasting memories.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
The host city, Spearfish, South Dakota, is a small town in the Black Hills region of western South Dakota, USA. The town is surrounded by scenic beauty and offers a variety of outdoor sports activities and accommodations. Spearfish is situated in a valley that the Black Hills National Forest surrounds. The town is located at an elevation of 3,600 feet and is surrounded by mountains that rise to more than 7,000 feet. Spearfish Creek, a popular fishing destination, runs through the heart of the town.
Spearfish is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, and rock climbing are popular activities in the surrounding mountains. Spearfish Canyon, located just south of the town, is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing. Fly fishing for trout is also popular in the area, with Spearfish Creek being a favorite spot. Winter sports are also popular, with skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling being popular activities in the nearby Black Hills. In addition to outdoor activities, Spearfish has a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The town is also home to Black Hills State University, which provides educational and cultural opportunities.
Spearfish offers a variety of accommodations for visitors. Numerous hotels and motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals are in the town. Campgrounds and RV parks are also available for those who prefer to stay closer to nature.
Related Events
In addition to Pine Island Gravel Odyssey, Ridge Rider Racing also produces the Dakota Five-O. However, there are many other premier mountain biking events in the Midwest region including Chequamegon MTB Festival which is organized by Life Time Events and is part of the Life Time Grand Prix Series, as well as the Mohican MTB 100 which is part of the NUE Series.
For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of South Dakota and the broader Midwest region, take a peek at all of our related Strambecco Best-rated event guides: