The Pine Island Gravel Odyssey was formerly known as the Gold Rush Gravel Grinder and is rated by Strambecco as one of the Best Gravel Grinders in the Midwest. This is South Dakota’s premier gravel event which operates under a special use permit for the Black Hills National Forest. Four route/event options meet the needs of all rider types. The longest and hardest route is dubbed the Lodgepole Voyage. This is your event if you are looking for more of a self-supported, ultra-endurance, adventure type of race. This race is not for beginners, as it is a very challenging ride. Before registering for this event, you must have completed the Pine Island-Gravel Odyssey or a race of at least 100 miles. It is an ultra 210-mile ride that takes you on a long tour through the Northern and Southern Black Hills of South Dakota.
There is a total of approx. 185-190 miles of gravel, with the rest being pavement. It is a challenging course with about 13,000 ft. of climbing. The gravel in the hills is unique in that there aren’t a lot of rolling hills. You will find long steady climbs and descents on roads that don’t make many 90-degree turns but rather wind their way through the beautiful Black Hills landscape. During the ride, you will enjoy a section of the famed Mickelson Trail, where you will take a “car-free,” winding path through the woods, crossing many bridges, and going through 3 tunnels. This is a self-supported race in that there are no aid stations. You are responsible for organizing your support crew to supply you at four specified checkpoints, or you can purchase a Ridge Rider Rescue package to drop supply bags at each of the four checkpoints. They will also give you a ride back to town if you need to abandon the race.
The Ponderosa Escapade is the next most challenging option at 110 miles. 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 7,000 ft. of elevation gain.
Rounding out the options are the Limber Escapade at 70 Miles and 4500 feet of elevation gain and the Pine Cone Frolic at 45 miles and 3,800 feet of elevation gain. 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 get started with; however, don’t be fooled; these are still challenging courses.
The host city, Spearfish, South Dakota, is a small town located 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 a popular activity 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. There are numerous hotels and motels in the town, as well as bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Campgrounds and RV parks are also available for those who prefer to stay closer to nature.
