The infamous SBT GRVL 2026 in Steamboat Springs is a mixed surface race of up to 142 miles and 9,400 feet of climbing with more than 100 miles of gravel through a combination of mixed terrain roads surrounding the beautiful resort town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Picked as one of our Best Gravel Cycling Events in Colorado and one of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in the Rockies, the event is extremely popular and known to sell out quickly, so plan accordingly. Held on unparalleled gravel roads in and around Steamboat Springs, this world-class race offers a unique blend of challenging cycling, breathtaking mountain views, and a thriving resort town atmosphere.

SBT GRVL has expanded into a full weekend of gravel action with both a ride and a race. On Saturday, riders can enjoy a non-competitive, timed ride along the beloved Green, Red, and Blue courses, starting and ending on Yampa Street. This is the perfect chance to ride with friends, soak in the beautiful emerald green fields, make stops at aid stations, and celebrate a day well spent on the bike.

Sunday turns up the intensity with a competitive gravel race near Hayden on a 37-mile circuit. The event features a rolling enclosure and options for Elite riders (3 laps) and Amateur riders (2 laps), with prizes, podiums, and ample opportunities for spectators to catch the action. Riders can choose to register for either Saturday’s Ride or Sunday’s Gravel Circuit Race, but not both, ensuring the maximum number of participants can experience this ultimate SBT GRVL weekend.

At SBT GRVL Steamboat Springs, there are four-course options, with fully stocked aid stations along the way: black, Blue, Red, and Green, all showcasing the best of what Steamboat has to offer.

The BLACK Course is the most challenging ride, covering the full 125 miles (100+ on gravel) and over 10,000 feet of elevation gain, with five aid stations that include a variety of snacks and hydration options. The BLUE Course is 100 miles, 7,000 feet of elevation gain, with more than 70 miles of gravel with four aid stations. The RED Course is 57 miles with 4,000 feet of climbing on more than 50 miles of gravel with three aid stations. The GREEN Course is 37 miles with 2,000 feet of climbing and 20 miles of gravel with two aid stations – a perfect introduction to Steamboat’s riding wonders. Fully stocked aid stations featuring Honey Stinger nutrition, Coke, water, ice, and more will fuel your adventure.

Participating in SBT GRVL means immersing yourself in a cycling community that values respect and appreciation for the surroundings. Many routes traverse working ranches, embodying the essence of Steamboat Springs. You’ll encounter livestock management, heavy machinery, and the natural beauty of the area, all of which require a mindful and respectful approach.

The numbers speak volumes about the global appeal of SBT GRVL with cyclists gathering from across the United States and the world (athletes from over 20 countries!). Age knows no bounds, as evidenced by the youngest rider at 7 years old and the eldest at 86, both ready to take on the challenging routes. Organizers partner with organizations such as Ride for Racial Justice and All Bodies on Bikes to expand involvement for BIPOC athletes.

Awards await those who conquer the courses, ranging from cash prizes for the Black Course (up to $5,000!) to Prize Packs for various categories across all courses. Winners of BLACK course Overall, Age Group, and Single Speed categories proudly sport the SBT GRVL Champion Cowboy Hat – a badge of honor signifying their triumph over the rugged terrain. On the BLUE, RED, and GREEN courses, a Strava live segment challenge will take place, with recognition for both the participant who savored the segment for the longest duration and the rider with the middle time between the fastest and most leisurely.

Chef Biju Thomas, The Feed Zone Cookbooks Co-Author, will oversee the culinary experience at Sunday’s post-race party, working with local vendors to create an elevated and unique post-race meal. The full SBT GRVL Steamboat Springs weekend kicks off on Thursday with exciting events including the Expo and Pro Panels.