Welcome to the West end!
september 14th, 2024
We’ve got your desert gravel.
The west end Gravel Rush is a challenging day of off road riding in the West End, tied to a fun community gathering. Yes, there’s gravel, but this isn’t a front range champagne toast. Dubbed “full body riding” the West End demands your full attention.
What’s the riding like on the Gravel Rush?
The early miles leaving the lush farmland of Nucla are paved, but quickly transitions to well maintained county gravel roads.
10 miles out of town, B & C level road stretches come into play (think rough passenger vehicle roads to 4x4 terrain). There’s a good chance of some sandy spells and rocky sections the closer you get to Uravan. This is canyon country, and you’ll surf in and out of small washes, canyons and mesas.
Traffic is minimal in these parts, so the only dustings being shelled out is likely from you, rippin’ dirt.
What the climbs here lack in length, they make up for in punchiness. Grades can spike up to 20% in places, and the vert adds up quickly. Bring a wide gear range, your climbing legs and don’t go out too hard! What goes up must come down, so be prepared for steep and fast descents, too.
The Cross Cut
50 miles of fun in the West End, and still 4,600 feet of climbing?!
Yes verty, but not as chunky as the High Grade.
75% Off-Road, 25% Paved
The High Grade
74 miles with 6,400 feet of climbing.
Challenging climbs, fun descents. Smooth until it’s very much not.
80% Off-Road, 20% Paved
Final routes, distances and elevation may vary based on road conditions at the time of the event.
We wouldn’t call riding in the West End an easy day out. It’s consistent climbing and engaging terrain, and some of you will consider it rough if you’re stuck on well graded roads.
Riders consistently report harder efforts here than races twice the length.
You could steam roll this route on 40s and you’d likely survive, but you might find yourself wincing in some areas and unsuccessfully surfing sand traps and loose washes. 45’s to 47’s are the sweet spot. An MTB isn’t necessary, but you will see several hardtails at the start, and they often end up putting in fast times overall.
Bring a tire tread that makes you comfortable in loose over hard conditions.
Handling loose corners at speed should be a skill you possess.
Keep in mind this is the desert- small cactus, square edge rocks and the possible goat heads are seen throughout the area. Bring good tire casings and fresh sealant.
timed segments
Looking to push the pace a little?
The Gravel Rush isn’t about podiums, but we still like some fun competition.
Timed segments make it a great event to ride with a group of friends. Hard efforts and relaxing miles mixed together. It’s all about balance.
Your registration includes the following:
A beautiful SAG supported off-road ride through the West End, guaranteed to leave your legs and eyes satisfied.
Timed segments for prizes (conducted through Strava)
Well stocked aid stations every 15-20 miles.
Entry into post-ride raffles for all riders!
THE 2024 Event T-Shirt
The Planning Resources page also has additional lodging options in the area.
Part of this operation is conducted on public lands under special permit from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
