Winding its way through beautiful central Wisconsin is the Ironbull Red Granite Grinder 2026, a premier US gravel event rated by Strambecco as one of the Best in the Midwest. The event is produced by Ironbull, a charitable organization that promotes outdoor adventure sports in Central Wisconsin. The event is also a part of the Ironbear 1000 Gravel Series when riders complete 1000 miles across five iconic Wisconsin gravel races.

The Ironbull Red Granite Grinder 2026 race offers a unique medley of scenic landscapes, allowing riders to traverse through areas typically inaccessible to bikes. A gravel aficionado cannot miss the allure of riding past ginseng fields, dairy farm pastures, barns, and other facets of Marathon County’s rustic charm. This event is distinctive, taking riders through “featured sections” like Rib Mountain State Park, Fenwood-Edgar ATV trail, and various privately-owned Managed Forest Lands, each a gem in its own right, unveiling the true essence of Central Wisconsin.

The races start and conclude in downtown Wausau. Various options are available, such as the 50, 85, and 144-mile gravel races that commence at 7 a.m. and a 12-mile recreational ride that starts at 3 p.m.

The 50-mile event is ideal for first-time gravel riders, as it avoids the grueling 800-foot climb to the top of Rib Mountain but still encompasses the gems of Marathon County. With a near 100% finisher rate, this route comprises 67% pavement, 7% dirt, 26% gravel road/snowmobile trail and 2,800 ft. of climbing.

In the 85-mile option, riders face serious climbs and taste “Xtreme Gravel.” They ride through private lands, experience Narnia-like trails at Wausau School Forest, and tackle wind and possibly harsh weather conditions on their way to Edgar, ending their journey back in Wausau. The total elevation gain for this course exceeds 4,600ft.

The big kahuna, the 144-mile, is the most challenging course and tests riders immediately. It exposes them to a mixture of gravel, dirt, and grit and requires them to maintain focus through unpracticed and technical descents, ultimately leading them back to downtown Wausau. The course is designed to find out who is the toughest of the tough, featuring 60% gravel, 30% pavement, 10% off-road, and nearly 6,400 ft of climbing.

Aid stations with drop bag access are available at specific locations for the 85- and 144-mile routes. Aid stations supplement nutrition and have water, Tailwind Nutrition, bananas, and other food options.

The finish line festival meals, local craft brews, food, and music are ready to enjoy once you reach the finish line. Custom finisher medals are awarded to everyone who completes the route. The top three males and females in the 50, 85, and 144-mile races receive “Blood of the Bull,” locally produced wine and custom cutting boards for age group winners.

It’s an excellent course for testing yourself for UnBound Gravel or beyond.