Butternut Valley Gravel Grinder

Join us for the 2026 Butternut Valley Gravel Grinder & Harvest Festival—a unique cycling adventure that promises an unforgettable day out on your bike. This is not just any ride; it’s an opportunity to explore some of the area's most scenic and challenging dirtphalt terrain, all while supporting a worthy cause.
The event combines two exciting elements: a thrilling gravel cycling challenge and a vibrant afternoon Harvest Festival filled with live music, vendor stalls, food trucks offering delicious treats, craft beer from local breweries like Butternuts Brewery, and family-friendly activities such as a bounce house and petting zoo. All proceeds benefit the Bassett Cancer Institute.
Participants can choose between two routes: a 15-mile or a more adventurous 45-mile journey. The course is known for its fast and smooth dirt roads but also includes some technical sections that will test your skills. Whether you're an experienced gravel rider or new to this terrain, there’s something in it for everyone.
The ride begins at Butternuts Brewery with on-site parking available. Marshals will be present at key intersections to ensure safety, though all participants must adhere to local traffic laws. Follow vehicles and moto support will accompany both waves of riders—first off at 11 AM, followed by a second wave starting ten minutes later.
Safety is paramount, so please come prepared with appropriate gear suitable for the terrain and weather conditions. A modern gravel bike or road bike works well; however, tires wider than 35mm are recommended to handle both smooth and technical sections effectively. Climbing legs will be particularly handy as you tackle some steep parts of the route.
After your ride, head over to the Summer Harvest Festival for a day filled with fun activities. Enjoy live music performances, browse through various vendors, explore the bounce house for kids, or simply relax under the open skies. The festival offers an array of food options from local establishments like The Empire House and Sherburne Inn, along with craft beers from Ommegang, Beer Tree, and Good Natured.
Post-ride refreshments are plentiful; registration by August 17th secures a meal ticket for you to enjoy post-ride festivities. Your first beer is complimentary, but expect a small refill charge afterward—$5 or so per pint—and remember that you must be 21 years old to partake in the beverages.
CNYC, Butternut Valley Alliance (BVA), and CNYC are co-sponsoring this event with the mission of promoting community engagement while raising funds for important causes. This year’s proceeds will support the Bassett Cancer Institute and BVA's efforts to protect environmental qualities, foster economic development, and preserve cultural heritage in the Butternut Creek watershed.
Whether you're looking for a casual ride or an intense challenge, this event promises a day full of adventure and camaraderie. So lace up your shoes, grab some friends, and join us for what is sure to be a memorable experience!