Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder brings together riders from around the globe while giving back to local communities
Claire Elmer
(Update: adding corrected video)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Hundreds of cyclists from around the world rolled into Central Oregon this weekend, crossing the finish line of the Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder on Sunday after days of riding some of the state’s most rugged terrain.
Now in its seventh year, the sold-out event brought 400 riders to the region for a five-day, point-to-point journey across the Cascades, blending competition with history and community.
Race Director Chad Sperry says the event continues to draw a wide range of participants, from elite athletes to everyday riders.
“We’ve had some of the top professional gravel racers from around the world. We have riders from Europe, all over North America, as well as a number of amateurs that have come to race and compete this year,” Sperry said.
Unlike traditional gravel races, the Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder takes riders across historic routes once used by early settlers, offering a unique connection to the state’s past.
“This is the only point-to-point gravel race in all of North America. Roads that were built back in the mid 1800s for the pioneers and the settlers that were coming to this valley are now incorporated into these carbon bikes and high technology and these riders that are actually getting to go back and ride over these vintage roads,” Sperry said.
Beyond the race itself, organizers say the multi-day format creates a strong sense of camaraderie. Riders camp together after each stage, sharing meals and building friendships along the way.
“People that had never met before become friends over the course of this, when they ride each day together out on those amazing roads and so forth. So that community aspect is unlike anything that you see in the racing world,” Sperry said.
The event also relies heavily on support from local communities, with volunteers helping at each stop along the route. In return, organizers say they prioritize giving back.
“We get tremendous community support, so we actually give back. This year we’ll be donating close to $20,000 spread out between these communities,” Sperry said.
Organizers say those donations benefit local schools, nonprofits, and trail groups in the areas that host the race.
While this year’s Oregon Trail Gravel Grinder has come to an end, riders say the experience — and the connections made along the way — will last well beyond the finish line.