Riding in the Heart of the Rockies is steep, loose, and bumpy. We recommend tires that have good grip and good tread. The organizers’ daily drivers here in Fernie are 700×45-50c medium tread tires and we highly recommend riders to do the same. For safety reasons, we do not allow any riders to run less than 30c tires.

For safety reasons, we do not allow road bikes. However anything from gravel/cyclocross bikes to adaptive and mountain bikes are welcome!

Racing in the Rockies is tough, after all it’s called a Gravel Grind for a reason! Each Gravel Grind distance comes with its own set of challenges.

• The Long Haul (~90km) is a very hard day for intermediate to expert riders, plain and simple. We recommend the Long Haul to intermediate and expert riders who are looking for a big challenge. Riders should be comfortable for 4-6 hours, climbing more than 1,600m elevation gain and descending steep, loose and bumpy roads with multiple drainage crossings. 
• The Medium Haul (~60km) is the perfect inbetween. Not too short, not too long! The Medium Haul is ideal for intermediate riders, strong junior riders and expert riders looking for something shorter and faster. Riders should be comfortable riding for 3-5hrs and 1,000m of elevation.
• The Short Haul (~40km) is a great challenge for gravel-curious beginner riders. We recommend the Short Haul to beginner riders looking for a challenge and intermediate riders looking for more of a mellow ride. Riders should be comfortable riding for 2-3 hours, climbing more than 750m elevation gain and descending loose and bumpy roads.

The Gravel Grind start and finish will be right smack dab in the middle of downtown Fernie at our weekend venue, Station Square.

The best and easiest way to spectate is the start from Station Square, as well as the finish back at Station Square. There is plenty of room here to cheer on friends and family, as well as plenty of family friendly activities that are open to all.

There will be plenty of on-course support at the multiple Stoke Stations throughout both the Short and Long Haul. Our Stoke Stations will be loaded with ride fuel and first aid attendants to help you complete the Gravel Grind!

There is little to no cell coverage on the Long Haul. If you or another rider are in distress please notify the nearest marshal or Stoke Station. We highly recommend making sure you have the route downloaded to your garmin along with additional safety means such as an inreach, bear spray, and additional clothing and water. Cell coverage on the Short Haul does exist throughout the majority of the Short Haul. Emergency contacts will be provided to each rider in their Race Guide.

There is no day of registration. Registration closes online three days prior to the event.

The venue is located right downtown Fernie at Station Square, right next to the Arts Station, just footsteps from Main Street.

There will be multiple sweepers throughout both the Short and Long Haul. If you need assistance, please wave down the motos, trucks, or visit a Stoke Station.