It’s that time of year again as we celebrate the holiday season together with commonality, adventure, and festivity. Join Gravelstoke and friends as we explore new terrain from the brand new Lost Cyclery location in San Marcos, CA on the day after Christmas. We’ll depart 581 NTOV Road for some of our favorite dirt sectors East and West of the Avocado Highway in a counter-clockwise endeavor. Departing at 8:30 AM riders will head south towards Lake Hodges, Highland Valley, and Raptor Ridge singletrack before connecting to northern trails in the hills above Reidy Creek. We will return to Losty Cyclery for a Grand Opening celebration complete with food and beverages for all starting around 12:30 PM post-ride.
Established Ways
Please don’t confuse this day with other drop bar rides, as Gravelstoke is best enjoyed together at moderate speeds with frequent regroups. Let’s roll as one group until mile 7 as we carefully turn right onto West Valley Parkway/Del Dios Highway. From there riders can spread out and enjoy the feeling of gravel beneath their wheels until mile 21 where we will regroup at the intersection of Bandy Canyon and Ysabel Creek roads. From here we will endure a 12 mile stretch of road together with options to stop for water and restrooms at either Fran’s Farm Stand (opens 10 AM) or Mountain View Park. From here prepare yourself for two final challenging climbs on Vista Verde and Lilac Hill, with both resulting in joyous dirt descents including the splendid Cougar Pass at mile 39. For those who wish to forego the final delight may skip it with an alternative Holiday Short route that covers just 42 miles, instead of the full 50. And as always…
Have Fun - Be Safe - Make Memories - Take Photos
Cougar Pass at mile 39
EQUIPMENT
With a diversity of road and dirt surfaces the optimal bike for Gravelstoke rides are a gravel or cross bike with tires at least 38mm in width. Tubeless tires are highly recommended. Please ride completely self-sufficient with a hand pump, CO2 cartridges, extra tubes and other appropriate trailside repair gear.
SELF-SUPPORTED
This is a self-supported ride, with no SAG wagon or aid stations. Routes are not marked and you are 100% responsible for yourself, your mechanicals, your food/water resupplies, and your retrieval off route (in case of emergency).
TRAIL ETIQUETTE
Please help us keep our trails safe and enjoyable for all. Whenever passing hikers, equestrians or other riders be prepared to slow down, say hi and pass in a safe and friendly manner. Always stay on designated trails and never ride dirt in wet or muddy conditions. Find more information on trail etiquette here.