gravelroadbeginner friendly

HI90 Grindy

Washington State, USA · 6 June 2026

Difficulty: 5/5 — Brutal

The HI90 Grindy offers three challenging routes up to 145km with 2377m of climbing, featuring a mix of demanding gravel and road sections high above the I90 corridor. Known for its "suuuper HARD" character, the event includes epic climbs, spicy descents, and vast scenic views in Washington State.

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Distances
145km · 85km · 42km
Elevation
2,377 m
Surface
gravel, tarmac, dirt
Typical W/kg
3–4.2

Rider fit

Who it's for

This event is for experienced cyclists looking for an epic day of challenging gravel and climbing, with a shorter, beginner-friendly option available.

Who will struggle

Inexperienced riders or those unprepared for sustained gravel climbing, technical descents, and long distances on rough terrain will find the longer routes particularly difficult.

Training focus

Training should focus on long gravel rides, sustained climbing endurance, and technical bike handling skills for rough descents.

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 different route options and their distances/climbing?+

There are three routes: Grande (145km with 2377m climbing), Medio (85km with 1920m climbing), and Mellow Velo (42km with 457m climbing).

What kind of terrain can I expect on the courses?+

The courses feature a significant amount of gravel, including rough forest service roads, winding climbs, and chunky descents, along with some paved sections and a gentle grade on the Palouse to Cascades trail.

How difficult is the HI90 Grindy?+

The Grande and Medio routes are described as 'suuuper HARD' and are intended for experienced cyclists due to extensive gravel, significant climbing, and demanding descents. The Mellow Velo is a more beginner-friendly gravel option.

What type of bike and gear are recommended?+

A solid, sturdy bike capable of handling rough forest service roads is recommended, ideally clearing 38-40mm tires, with gearing suitable for steep pitches and good brakes. Riders should also be prepared for varying mountain weather, potentially bringing leg/arm warmers and a packable wind jacket.

Are there aid stations provided?+

Yes, aid stations are well-stocked. The Grande route has aid stations at approximately miles 39, 52, and 72, while the Medio has them at miles 15 and 36.

When does registration open and close?+

Registration opens on January 1st and closes on June 3rd. It is limited and fills up quickly, so early registration is advised.

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