gravelbeginner friendly

Ukiah Mendo Gravel Epic

California, USA · 24 May 2026

Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard

A challenging gravel event in Ukiah, California, offering three distances with significant climbing on a mix of dirt and paved roads through Mendocino County's private redwood forests. Riders face an initial steep ascent and explore new, limited-access terrain.

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Distances
23mi · 34mi · 76mi
Elevation
2,566 m
Surface
gravel, dirt, tarmac
Typical W/kg
2.8–4

Rider fit

Who it's for

This event is for experienced gravel riders seeking an adventurous and challenging ride with varied terrain, with shorter options available for those looking for a less extreme but still demanding experience.

Who will struggle

Novice riders or those unprepared for sustained climbing and long distances on mixed gravel and dirt surfaces may find even the shorter courses very challenging.

Training focus

Training should prioritize sustained climbing power, endurance for long hours in the saddle, and developing bike handling skills for varied gravel and dirt terrain.

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 available course options and their distances/elevations?+

The Ukiah Mendo Gravel Epic offers three routes: a Long Course at 76 miles with 8,420 feet of climbing, a Medium Course at 34 miles with 3,897 feet of climbing, and a Short Course at 23 miles with 2,291 feet of climbing.

What kind of terrain and surface can riders expect on the courses?+

Riders will encounter a mixed surface event, predominantly dirt (68-83% depending on the course), with significant sections of paved road or smooth tarmac. Much of the route traverses private Mendocino Redwoods property, offering unique gravel and dirt roads.

What type of bike and tire setup is recommended for this event?+

This is designed as a gravel bike event. For optimal performance, tires with a slight tread and small side knobs, ideally in the 40-42mm range, are recommended due to the varied dirt and paved sections. E-bikes are not permitted.

When does registration open and close, and is it possible to transfer a registration?+

Registration for the event opens on November 1st, 2025, and closes on May 21st, 2026, at 9 PM PST. Transfers to another rider are permitted until May 21st, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST.

What are the details for packet pickup?+

Packet pickup will be available on the evening of Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 (5 PM-8 PM) at the Ukiah Welcome Center, and again on the morning of the event, Sunday, May 24th, 2026 (6:30 AM-8:45 AM), at the Golf Club House at Todd Grove Park, where hot coffee and pastries will be provided.

Are there any recommendations for parking, lodging, or camping?+

Parking is available at Anton Stadium, Ukiah Civic Center, and Mendocino Library parking lots. Tent camping is offered on the baseball field at Anton Stadium, and van camping is available in the Anton Stadium parking lot.

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