'Monuments of Gravel': The 5 Most Elite Gravel Races

Fashioned after the 'Monuments of Cycling', the most epic and prestigious gravel bike races comprise the 'Monuments of Gravel'.

Rebecca's Private Idaho / Sun Valley

The Classics Meet Gravel

The Monuments of Cycling are comprised of five epic and historical one-day cycling events known as the ‘Classics’. These races – the Tour of Flanders, Milan-San Remo, Paris-Roubaix, the Tour of Lombardi, and Liege-Bastogne-Liege, have earned the Monuments distinction over one hundred years of memorable racing. The Belgian Waffle Ride, a premier and super-difficult gravel race, has inspired the advent of the Monuments of Gravel - a tribute to, and reflection of, the great Monuments of Cycling.

The Monuments of Gravel are represented by the five most prestigious gravel races chosen by elite gravel racers, race promoters, and VeloNews. Gravel racing has become a prominent facet of the cycling world, known for its grueling courses and tight-knit communities. Among the numerous events held globally, certain races were chosen as the Monuments of Gravel racing due to their prestige, history, and the epic course they present. These races are the ultimate tests of gravel racing for both professionals and amateurs. The five current Monuments: Rebecca’s Private Idaho, Unbound Gravel, the Belgian Waffle Ride, The Mid South, and SBT GRVL.

Rebecca's Private Idaho

Rebecca's Private Idaho (“RPI”), founded by Olympic medalist Rebecca Rusch, is a renowned gravel race held annually over Labor Day weekend in picturesque Sun Valley, Idaho. The event offers several races to attract different skill and endurance levels: The Big Potato covers approximately 100-miles of challenging terrain. The French Fry covers 56-miles, and the Tater Tot runs 20-miles. The ultimate RPI challenge is the Queen's Stage Race, a multi-day event spanning over 200-miles across three rigorous stages.

The terrain of Rebecca's Private Idaho is both beautiful and demanding, featuring a mix of gravel and rugged backcountry trails, involving significant elevation changes. This event is known for its welcoming Wood River Valley community spirit, and commitment to charitable organizations, which support multiple cycling-related causes and local initiatives, including the ‘Do Good Foundation’. RPI is a true celebration of the gravel cycling lifestyle and community.

Unbound Gravel

Unbound Gravel, formerly known as Dirty Kanza, is held annually in early June in Emporia, Kansas. The marquee race covers 200-miles over demanding rock and gravel terrain. The event also offers four additional races covering various distances: 350-miles; 100-miles; 50-miles, and a 25-mile introductory course. The terrain of Unbound Gravel is notoriously tough and varied, featuring the rugged Flint Hills of Kansas, where riders encounter a mix of gravel roads, dirt paths, rocky sections, and steep climbs. Like all the ‘Monuments’, Unbound Gravel is a celebration of the gravel cycling community, known for its camaraderie and supportive atmosphere.

Unbound Gravel Race / Unbound Gravel

Belgian Waffle Ride

The Belgian Waffle Ride (“BWR”) is unique for its blend of road and off-road sections. Originating in San Marcos, California, BWR challenges riders over a 140-mile course with a diverse mix of gravel, dirt, and tarmac, inspired by the spring classics of Belgium. This race is famous for its difficulty and festive atmosphere, complete with themed waffles and Belgian ale. Over the years, BWR has expanded to multiple locations, each maintaining the race's signature mix of terrain and celebratory atmosphere.

The Mid South

The Mid South, formerly known as the Land Run 100, is held each year in March in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The race is renowned for its unpredictable weather, which can range from dry and dusty conditions to wet mud-filled courses. The main event covers approximately 100-miles. This race is complemented by races that accommodate different racing levels and distances. All courses weave through the rolling hills and scenic countryside of Oklahoma, featuring a mix of gravel and dirt terrain. The Mid South is celebrated for its strong community vibe and the welcoming atmosphere of Stillwater.

Celebrating The Mid South Gravel Race / The Mid South

SBT GRVL

SBT GRVL is held annually in Steamboat Springs, Colorado in August. The event features multiple race distances to cater to different levels of riders: the Black course, 144-miles; the Blue course, 100-miles; the Red course, 64-miles; and the Green course, 37-miles. The scenic SBT GRVL offers a mix of smooth gravel roads, rugged dirt paths, and some paved sections. The routes weave through the picturesque landscapes of northern Colorado. SBT GRVL is a celebration of the gravel cycling community, known for its well-organized event, supportive atmosphere, and the beautiful backdrop of Steamboat Springs.

SBT GRVL RACE / SBT GRVL

Go Race A Gravel Monument!

Gravel Racing / Rebecca Rusch - Sun Valley