A relatively new event, unPaved of the Susquehanna River Valley 2026 from GRO Races, has gained rapid popularity, attracting hundreds of riders who loved the routes and the weekend festival atmosphere in Lewisburg, PA. Each route showcases some of the best gravel riding Pennsylvania offers and has become one of the Best Gravel Events in the Mid-Atlantic, as rated by Strambecco.

The unPAved of the Susquehanna River Valley 2026 event is not just a race but a raw road adventure, promising participants a challenging yet exhilarating experience through some of the region’s most scenic landscapes. The uniqueness of unPAved lies in its adaptability to choose-as-you-ride lengths and start times, as well as an overnight option.

The unPaved of the Susquehanna River Valley routes showcase exceptional gravel, challenging ascents, exhilarating descents, lush scenery, and well-stocked aid stations.

The Full-120 is a rugged challenge of stamina and skills. A whopping 10,000′ climb awaits riders, complete with four timed segments that could earn one the title of “Champion of the Whoopie Pies.” The course now introduces “The Different Difference”, eliminating super-chunky roads but maintaining its challenging essence.

The Plenty-90 mile course circumvents the “Different Difference”, and riders will experience a 7,000′ climb and an extended route down south.

Proper-50 mile remains unchanged for its near-perfection – this route offers a large climb, two descents, and two vistas to savor.

The 30-mile route, commencing and concluding at R.B. Winter State Park, is now an all-gravel ride, presenting riders with a 3,000′ climb and scenic gravel roads.

For the crazy ones craving more mileage and challenges, the Big Lick 200 is a 200-mile route with a climb of 18,311 ft – however, participation in this insane event is limited to 30 riders and is based on an application process.

The best part about unPaved of the Susquehanna River Valley is the freedom to decide. Start times are flexible, ranging from 6:30–9:00 am, and for “Big Lick 200” riders can begin between 5 AM – 6 AM. The courses are interlinked, allowing you to decide your distance while you’re in the midst of your ride (for most course options but not all!). You can even turn your unPAved experience into a full weekend escapade by setting up camp at RB Winter State Park for the unPAved SlumberPArty.

While many of the course’s gravel paths surpass the condition of asphalt roads, the term “unpaved” occasionally hints at rougher and unpredictable terrains. Ensure you equip your bike with quality tires, for instance, a 700×35-40 tubeless configuration with newly applied Stan’s NoTubes sealant at 30-45psi.

There is good fun to be had the entire weekend in Lewisburg at unPaved of the Susquehanna River Valley. There is a Fall festival on Saturday and a DONEpaved party following the ride.