Gravel biking offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain trails to serene countryside paths. The combination of challenging terrains and breathtaking scenery makes gravel biking a favorite among adventure enthusiasts. Here’s some highlights from experts like Steven Rindner on some of the best gravel biking routes around the world, each offering unique landscapes, challenges, and experiences.
- The Dirty Kanza – Kansas, USA
The Dirty Kanza, now known as Unbound Gravel, is one of the most iconic gravel biking events in the United States. Located in the Flint Hills of Kansas, this route offers a mix of challenging terrain and stunning natural beauty.
- Terrain: The route features rolling hills, rough gravel roads, and scenic prairie landscapes. Riders face steep climbs and descents, requiring both endurance and technical skills.
- Distance: Various route options are available, ranging from 25 miles to over 200 miles, catering to different skill levels and preferences.
- Highlights: The vast, open landscapes provide a unique sense of isolation and tranquility. The event’s festive atmosphere and community spirit make it a memorable experience for participants.
- Tuscany Trail – Tuscany, Italy
The Tuscany Trail is a renowned bikepacking adventure that takes riders through the heart of Italy’s picturesque Tuscany region. This route combines gravel paths with ancient roads, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
- Terrain: Expect a mix of gravel roads, forest trails, and quiet country lanes. The route includes rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.
- Distance: Approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles), typically completed over several days.
- Highlights: The route passes through historic towns, including Siena and Florence, allowing riders to explore medieval architecture and enjoy local cuisine. The stunning Tuscan countryside, with its iconic cypress trees and vineyards, provides a scenic backdrop throughout the journey.
- The Great Divide – Canada and USA
The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is the longest off-pavement bike route in the world, stretching from Banff, Canada, to the Mexican border. While primarily a mountain bike route, many sections are ideal for gravel bikes.
- Terrain: This epic route traverses remote wilderness areas, featuring gravel roads, forest trails, and mountainous terrain. Riders encounter a variety of landscapes, from alpine forests to desert plains.
- Distance: Approximately 4,400 kilometers (2,735 miles), typically completed over several weeks.
- Highlights: The route passes through the Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs. Wildlife sightings, including bears and elk, add to the adventure. The sense of accomplishment from completing such a long and demanding route is unmatched.
- King Alfred’s Way – England, UK
King Alfred’s Way is a relatively new long-distance cycling route in southern England, offering a mix of gravel paths, bridleways, and quiet country roads. It connects historic sites and natural landscapes, providing a rich cultural and scenic experience.
- Terrain: The route features a variety of surfaces, including gravel tracks, ancient paths, and country lanes. Riders navigate rolling hills, woodlands, and open fields.
- Distance: Approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles), typically completed over several days.
- Highlights: The route passes through iconic landmarks such as Stonehenge and Winchester Cathedral. Riders can explore charming English villages and enjoy the scenic beauty of the South Downs National Park.
- The Timber Trail – New Zealand
The Timber Trail is a popular gravel biking route on New Zealand’s North Island, offering a mix of native forest, historic logging tracks, and suspension bridges. It provides a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Terrain: The trail features well-maintained gravel paths, forest tracks, and impressive suspension bridges. Riders experience lush rainforests, river gorges, and panoramic views.
- Distance: Approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles), typically completed over two days.
- Highlights: The route includes several historic logging sites and the spectacular Maramataha Suspension Bridge. The trail’s remote setting offers a chance to experience New Zealand’s pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife.
Gravel biking routes around the world offer a diverse range of landscapes and challenges, each providing a unique adventure for riders. From the vast prairies of Kansas to the historic trails of Tuscany, the remote wilderness of the Great Divide, the cultural richness of King Alfred’s Way, and the lush forests of New Zealand, these routes cater to various skill levels and preferences. Whether you seek a short, scenic ride or a long, challenging expedition, gravel biking provides an opportunity to explore the world’s natural beauty while enjoying the thrill of off-road cycling. As you plan your next gravel biking adventure, consider these top destinations to experience the best of what gravel biking has to offer.
