Experience Grateful Gravel, an exhilarating celebration of cycling and music that transforms Vermont's scenic landscapes into a vibrant festival ground. This unique event merges long-distance gravel riding with live performances of classic Grateful Dead tunes, creating an unforgettable experience for both seasoned cyclists and casual enthusiasts. The day kicks off early with three distance options: 21 miles, 46 miles, or the epic 63-mile route. Each mile is designed to challenge your legs while taking you through Vermont's breathtaking countryside, winding along gravel roads that offer stunning vistas of rolling hills and lush forests. As you pedal, the soundtrack shifts from the crisp air to the lively tunes of Hunter, Garcia, and their bandmates, immersing riders in a musical journey. Post-ride, gather at Cousin’s Brewing for an afternoon filled with live music, delicious food, refreshing beverages, and engaging bar games that continue until sunset. The venue is set on a picturesque lawn adorned with an outdoor stage under the open sky, perfect for soaking up the warm rays while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. For those preferring dirt to gravel, new this year are guided mountain bike rides through Mad River Riders trail network. Whether you're a family looking for kid-friendly fun or an adventure seeker eager for steep climbs and challenging descents, there's a ride that suits your style. These routes begin at 11 AM from the brewery, giving participants ample time to explore their options before signing up. Refuel with a small meal by Silk Road, courtesy of Cousin’s Brewing, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes next in this dynamic event. Additional food and beverage are available for purchase if you want more variety or simply wish to indulge further into the evening. Grateful Gravel is not just a race; it's an invitation to join a community that loves music as much as they love riding their bikes. This event promises to be a bright, face-melting celebration of both sport and culture, making every moment count in this long strange trip through Vermont’s landscapes and beyond.
Races Offered
Camping Option - Limited Spots
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Camping Option - Limited Spots
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
24 days remaining
sell
$100.00
Concert Only
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
0K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
24 days remaining
sell
$20.00
Fire on the Mountain
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
103K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
24 days remaining
sell
$100.00
Mountain Biking
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
48.3K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
24 days remaining
sell
$100.00
New Speedway
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
74K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
24 days remaining
sell
$100.00
Peggy Slow
Jul 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
33.8K
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
24 days remaining
sell
$100.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Waitsfield.
thermostatTemperature
17.7° / 27.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
18.0° / 28.3°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
12h 2m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.3 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.1 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Very High (8.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
75.5%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:40
nightlight
Sunset
20:38
About Waitsfield
Learn more about the host city, Waitsfield.
Waitsfield is a ski resort town in Central Vermont. Mad River Glen and Sugarbush are both nearby.
