Grouchy Groundhog Gravel Grinder

This is a 48 mile adventure ride based out of beautiful downtown Warrenton!  Featuring a mix of gravel and paved roads, beautiful views, and stiff climbs, this ride will provide a beautiful tour of northern Fauquier County!  The route will test your mettle, and should take approximately 5 hours to complete.  Check-in begins at 9:00 am and the official start is 10:00 am.

This will be a true gravel adventure: the route will be marked but there will be no SAG support available. It is recommended that you download the GPX files so you can navigate the route (Cue sheets will also be provided).  There will be an aid station set up approximately halfway through the route (before the climb up Bull Run Mountain, complete with snacks and water.  In addition, there will be bars and gels available at the ride start to throw in your jersey pockets to take with you.  You’ll need to carry enough water with you to last the first 25 miles of the ride or so before arriving at the aid station. Be prepared with flat changing tools and spare tubes, as gravel can be rough on tires.  Take a cell phone, but be aware that service can be spotty.  This ride will go rain or shine, so if the forecast is cold and wet, be sure to dress appropriately!

Suggested Equipment: A cyclocross or adventure bike with 32-40 mm tires would be your best choice.  You’ll want a wide range of gearing, too, as some of the hills can be steep. A mountain bike would also work but will certainly be slower on the paved sections of the ride.