Highlands Gravel Classic
📍 Fayetteville-Goshen, United States
gravel
Date
25 April 2026
Distance
86km · 109km
Elevation
1,480 m
Difficulty
gravelmtb
Hardford Gravel Grinder 2026
Tennessee, United States · 02 August 2026
Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard
Choose between a 50-mile course with 6,500 ft. of climbing or a 75-mile course with 10,300 ft. of climbing, predominantly on gravel and dirt through the Smoky Mountains.
Visit official site →- Distances
- 50 miles · 75 miles
- Elevation
- 3,138 m
- Surface
- gravel, dirt, tarmac
- Typical W/kg
- 3–4
Rider fit
Who it's for
This event is suitable for cyclists with CX or MTB experience looking for a challenging gravel race in a scenic mountain setting.
Who will struggle
Riders unfamiliar with extended climbing, loose surfaces like gravel and dirt, or those who prefer well-marked courses may find this event difficult.
Training focus
Training should emphasize sustained climbing, bike handling on mixed terrain (gravel, dirt, pavement), and pacing for long distances.
Are you ready for this race?
Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.
FAQs
What are the course options?+
There are two options: the HARDford 50 (50+ miles, 6,500 ft. climbing) and the HARDERford 75 (75 miles, 10,300 ft. climbing).
What is the surface of the course?+
The ride is approximately 75% gravel, 10% dirt, and the remainder on pavement.
Are the courses marked?+
No, riders are responsible for downloading and using the provided GPX and FIT files. The course will not be marked.
What types of bikes are appropriate?+
Both Cyclocross (CX) and Mountain Bikes (MTB) are appropriate for this event.
Where is the start and finish?+
The start and finish are at Rapid Expeditions, 3605 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753.
When is packet pickup?+
Packet pickup is in person at Rapid Expeditions on Saturday, August 2nd from 6-8pm or Sunday, August 3rd from 6-7:30am.