Ride Wild: Arizona Gravel Biking Events

Gravel biking is a relatively new, fast-growing sport that combines the endurance of road cycling with the adventure of taking the (dirt) road less traveled.

With its countless forest roads, open desert terrain and varied year-round climate, its no surprise that Arizona has become gravel biking hotspot. Here's your guide to the eight gravel biking events that take place annually across the state.

Northern Arizona

The GrAZzl

‍This three-day gravel biking event is Arizona’s first gravel stage festival. Riders can choose to ride all three days, or pick one or two days that appeal most to them. For riders who do all three stages, there's an opportunity to take home the GrAZzl Champion title. The events all take place at Village Camp Flagstaff, which highlights the beauty of the high-altitude terrain of Northern Arizona. After the rides, there's also live music, cornhole tournaments and other festivities suited for the whole family.

Flagstaff | 2027 date TBA | Learn more

Village Gravel

Founder Audra Adair designs the Village Gravel courses to challenge riders in the best way. The courses include technical terrain not found on most gravel routes to test participants both mentally and physically. The event also takes place at Village Camp Flagstaff, a luxury outdoor resort and the perfect place for a weekend of Northern Arizona adventure.

Flagstaff | 2027 date TBA | Learn more‍

Chino Grinder

Chino Grinder, Arizona's longest-running gravel biking event (since 2014!), takes participants through rural Chino Valley, on rugged unpaved terrain with beautiful backcountry views. The remote endurance cycling event has several options suitable for a variety of abilities and experience levels. Many attendees camp on-site at the race's basecamp, the Chino Valley Community Center Park. Reward yourself with a post-ride treat at the beer garden or food trucks.

Chino Valley | Oct. 17, 2026 | Learn more‍

The Rough Rider

‍New in 2026, this three-day stage race takes riders through the scenic Prescott National Forest and beyond. The event is based in Historic Downtown Prescott, blending world-class gravel riding with a uniquely local spirit. The courses are named "Grit, Grind, and Glory," and are meant to showcase the best of Prescott's high desert, deep forests and forgotten frontier roads.

Prescott | Oct. 30–Nov. 1, 2026 | Learn more

White Mountains + Eastern Arizona

The Pinewood Showdown – Gravel Grinder

This grinder takes place just outside Pinetop-Lakeside/Show Low at Wilderness Ranch, a 32-acre wooded property that has on-site Old West-themed cabins and camping. Cyclists can choose between 25, 45 or 80 mile routes that traverse through the stunning White Mountains. The ride is followed by live music, food trucks and festivities.

Pinetop-Lakeside | September 19, 2026 | Learn more‍

Phoenix Metro Area

Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona

‍This "unroad" race is part of the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, a four-part gravel biking event taking place in four different states. Riders can enjoy gorgeous desert views as they make their way through the McDowell Mountains just outside of Fountain Hills.

Fountain Hills | 2027 date TBA | Learn more

Southern Arizona

The Spirit World 100

Founded by Appreciate AZ Ambassadors Heidi Rentz and Zander Ault, this three-day race in Patagonia has celebrated the spirit of Southern Arizona since 2019. Riders choose between four different 30, 58, 80, or 100 mile routes that cut through the rural grasslands of the San Rafael Valley. The real prize of this weekend-long event is the sense of community — from family dinner, gravel group rides and live entertainment.

Patagonia | Nov. 5–8, 2026 | Learn more‍

BorderLands Gravel

Now in its third year, this gravel race takes place in the border town of Douglas. Riders have the option to take a short, medium or long route on Geronimo Trail, through historic landmarks including John Slaughter Ranch and San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge. The event wraps with a celebration at Raul Castro Park, with local food vendors, libations and more.

Douglas | Nov. 14, 2026 | Learn more‍

Please check each event's website or social media pages before venturing out to confirm any restrictions or changes that might impact your visit. Header image: The Rough Riders, Prescott. Credit: Evan Wishloff (Cirque Studio).