The west end Gravel Rush is a healthy and challenging day of off road riding throughout the canyons of the West End, tied to fun small community gatherings throughout the weekend. built for those that enjoy a challenge , appreciate making lasting connections with riders at events, yet aren’t looking to be extremely serious.
come out and see what the west end is all about!
The Gravel Rush is taking a year off in 2025 for some big adventures of our own- Look out, 2026!
2024 COURSES
The Cross Cut
50 miles of fun in the West End, and still 4,600 feet of climbing?!
Yes verty, but not as chunky as the High Grade.
75% Off-Road, 25% Paved
The High Grade
80 miles with 7,000 feet of climbing.
Challenging climbs, fun descents. More spice than the Cross Cut.
80% Off-Road, 20% Paved
Final routes, distances and elevation may vary based on road conditions at the time of the event.
What’s the Gravel Rush like?
The early miles leaving the lush farmland of Nucla are paved, but quickly transition to well maintained county gravel roads.
Less than 10 miles out of town, B & C level road stretches come into play (think rough passenger vehicle roads and mild 4x4 terrain). There’s a good chance of some sandy spells and rocky sections the closer you get to Uravan. This is canyon country, and you’ll surf in and out of small washes, canyons and mesas.
Traffic is minimal in these parts, and this is a small event, which likely means a low dust day.
Climbing: What the climbs here lack in length, they make up for in punchiness. Grades can spike up to 20% in places, and the vert adds up quickly. Bring a wide gear range, your climbing legs and don’t go out too hard! What goes up must come down, so be prepared for steep and fast descents, too.
We wouldn’t call riding in the West End an easy day out. It’s consistent climbing and engaging terrain, and some of you will consider it rough if you’ve been stuck on mag chloride graded roads.
Riders consistently report harder efforts here than races twice the length, so you’ve been warned!
You could steam roll this route on 40s and you’d likely survive, but you’ll find yourself wincing in some areas and unsuccessfully surfing sand traps and loose washes. 45’s to 47’s are the sweet spot. An MTB isn’t necessary, but you will see a few hardtails at this party, and they often end up putting in fast times overall.
Just bring what makes you comfortable in a wide variety of terrain conditions. Choose a tire tread and volume that makes you comfortable in loose over hard conditions- you will experience loose corners at speed!
Keep in mind this is the desert- small cactus, square edge rocks and the possible goat heads are seen throughout the area. Leave the tubes at home and bring a strong tire casing with fresh sealant!
Mid September in Nucla (6,000 ft) will see crisp mornings where you’ll want a jacket, up to highs typically in the high 70’s/low 80’s. September is one of the best months to ride in the West End!
timed segments
Looking to push the pace a little?
The Gravel Rush isn’t about podiums, but we still like some fun competition.
Timed segments make it a great event to ride with a group of friends. Hard efforts and relaxing miles mixed together. It’s all about that balance.
Segment information will be provided to riders in the Digital Rider Guide.
Your registration includes the following:
A beautiful SAG supported off-road ride through the West End, guaranteed to leave your legs and eyes satisfied.
Timed segments for prizes (conducted through Strava)
Well stocked aid stations every 15-20 miles.
Entry into post-ride raffles for all riders!
THE 2024 Event T-Shirt
The Planning Resources page also has additional lodging options in the area.
Part of this operation is conducted on public lands under special permit from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
