Nestled in the heart of Southern Colorado, Trinidad offers a breathtaking backdrop of towering Spanish Peaks and expansive mesas. This fall, The Rad Dirt Fest 2026 promises to take gravel cycling enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey through this untouched U.S. cycling gem. With three revamped course distances, each more thrilling than the next, cyclists from all over the country are set to converge in Trinidad’s newest outdoor riding destination for an eclectic off-road adventure.

The Rad Dirt Fest 2026 is a newer event by the Life Time Events team, who are part of the Leadville Race Series owners and Unbound Gravel (formerly Dirty Kanza). Picked as one of our Best Gravel Cycling Events in Colorado and the Rockies, the event takes place annually on the last weekend of September.

There are three unique routes to choose from: The Frijole at 40ish miles, The Anteloop at 65ish miles, and the Stubborn Delores at 100+ miles. The routes offer breathtaking terrain and scenery in this southern Colorado region bordering the San Isabel National Forest and Spanish Peaks Wilderness Area.

The Stubborn Delores course is a true test for cyclists, spanning a distance of 113 miles with an elevation gain of 10,613 feet. The event kicks off at 9 am, and as participants pedal through this route, they are greeted with buttery smooth gravel, a mesmerizing high alpine setting, and a 2-mile stretch of technical gravel that lies on the South Shore Trail within the Trinidad Lake State Park. The course reaches its pinnacle at 8,921 feet, making for some adrenaline-pumping climbs. Aid stations are strategically placed at mileages 5.7, 22.4, 42.8, 70.8, 89.5, and 106. Course cutoffs include the Spanish Peaks Inn checkpoint at mile 42.8 set for 1:20 pm and the Trinidad Lake State Park cutoff at mile 106 expected by 7:40 pm.

The Anteloop route goes off at 9:30 am, covering a distance of 68.2 miles and boasting an elevation gain of 6,558 feet. The journey offers a diverse terrain comprising desert landscapes, vistas of snowcapped mountains, gentle inclines, and sections of what can only be described as champagne gravel. The route also includes the signature 2-mile technical gravel stretch on the South Shore Trail. Aid stations are available at mileages 5.7, 22.4, 33.7, 44.2, and 61.6. Cyclists should reach the 4 Corners Aid station by 1:00 pm at mile 33.7 and the Trinidad Lake State Park by 3:45 pm at mile 61.6.

For those new to the sport or simply wanting a more relaxed day on the saddle, the Frijole route stretches over a distance of 47.2 miles with an elevation gain of 4,632 feet. This course promises smooth gravel paths, breathtaking scenic views, and manageable climbs. The route is also graced by the 2-mile technical gravel section on the South Shore Trail. Aid stations can be found at mileages 5.7, 22.4, and 40.

After their ride, stick around for the Award Ceremonies. Both the Stubborn Delores and Anteloop have awards three deep in each of their 20 categories while Frijole awards are three deep for 4 categories.

At The Rad Dirt Fest, be prepared for afternoon temperatures in the 80s, with early mornings and evenings cooling down to the lower 50s. Given the unpredictable high desert climate, it’s advisable to carry a rain jacket.

The Rad Dirt Fest is a Wild Card event in the Life Time Grand Prix Series, which features 7 of the most iconic cycling events and the best cyclists in off-road cycling. The biggest prize purse in U.S. cycling, $250,000, is split evenly between men and women.