The Usal Lost Coast Hopper 2026, chosen as one of our best gravel cycling events in California and the Northwest. Nestled between the vast Pacific Ocean and the meandering Eel River, 25 miles north of Fort Bragg, lies the remote Usal Beach and the Lost Coast of Mendocino County, Northern California. This September, the annual Usal Lost Coast Hopper 2026 promises a one-of-a-kind cycling experience, granting riders access to the roads of Usal Redwoods and the Redwood Forest Foundation Inc. (RFFI) lands. These paths, closely guarded in their pristine nature, open their gates for cyclists only once a year, making it a true once-in-a-lifetime journey. However, there is a ~300 rider limit due to the exclusivity of the course.

There are three lengths of rides to choose from at the Usal Lost Coast Hopper. The most challenging course is the Mero-Mero, covering a distance of 65 miles and ascending 8800 feet; this route incorporates a figure-eight pattern, offering riders 7.5 miles of scenic Hwy 1 pavé on each loop. The El Mediano route spans 46 miles with a gain of 6500 feet and includes a 7.5-mile stretch on Hwy 1 pavé. The El Chiquito is a 32-mile off-road loop with over 4,000 feet of climbing. The El Mediano and the Mero-Mero will be timed, making them more competitive. At the same time, the Chiquito is non-timed, making it more relaxing and fun for more levels of riders or people just wanting to enjoy the beauty.

For those on the Mediano route, rest stops are placed at Mile 14.5 and Mile 35.5. Those braving the Mero-Mero will find an additional rest stop at Mile 51. Importantly, riders must fill their bottles at these stops; no hand-ups are permitted.

With mixed surfaces, people use a range of bike quivers for the Usal Lost Coast Hopper, with a split between gravel and mountain bikes. The roads mix hard-packed dirt, loose gravel, pavement, and rutted county first roads. Whether it’s a gravel bike fitted with 650b and 47c tires or a hardtail mountain bike, each setup offers advantages. Regardless of your decision, one essential recommendation stands out: ensure you have low climbing gears.

The Mero-Mero and El Mediano routes feature Open/Pro M/F and age group categories. Still, only the top three in each category of the Mero-Mero route will ascend the podium. After Saturday’s race, there will be lunch, a podium ceremony, and presentations by RFFI/USAL staff and local historians. A campfire gathering beckons as night falls, providing a chance to unwind with a cold beer. Sunday morning offers an optional hike in the Usal Creek watershed with RFFI foresters, deepening your connection to the area’s conservation efforts.

The registration includes a yearly RFFI membership, a redwood tree planted in your name, and camping on both Friday and Saturday. Due to the remote nature of the event location, it’s recommended to camp at the event venue. Usal Beach, part of the State Park, offers free primitive camping near the beach, in the meadow south of Usal Creek, and along the road to the beach within the trees.

Usal Lost Coast Hopper is produced by Hopper Adventures, the US’s longest-running gravel/mixed-terrain adventure series producer. There is a competition for the Hopper Super King of the Universe title based on overall points leaders for riders who complete five Hoppers.