FAQ

What are the recommended tires?

Eagle County does not have much 'Champagne Gravel’, think more rugged backcountry forest roads. Some of these rugged sections will be low speed, uphill climbs, but some will be high speed ripping descents. For these sections we recommend a minimum tire width of 38mm and running a tire-liner for added protection.

What kind of bike do you recommend?

In some sections a mountain bike might be your best tool for the job. No judgment here. The hardtail mountain bike is the original gravel grinder after all! That said, the vast majority of riders will be on modern gravel bikes, like the Pinarello Grevil.

Can I switch courses on race day?

No. Due to the differences in the Routes and staggered start times. If you find yourself needing to drop from the race, please notify the nearest Aid Station or let any volunteer or staffing know as soon as you see one and also let the timing station know at the finish that you have made the change. You will NOT be given a finish time.

Will there be bathrooms/showers at the Start/Finish?

Yes! There will be port-a-potties for all of those race morning needs, as well as toilets at the Aid Stations. Additionally, the Gypsum Rec Center offers day rates which include full access to the facility for $7 for kids (18 and under), $13 for adults, and $11 for seniors. They will be open 5am - 9pm on Friday, 9am - 7pm on Saturday, and 10am - 5pm on Sunday.

Is the course open to traffic?

Yes! All roads are open to traffic and all trails are open to the public. Please follow the rules of the road and be curious to other trail users. Believe me, they don’t care that you are ‘racing’. Keep safety a top priority!

Where can my family and friends cheer for me on race day?

In order to keep riders safe, we are trying to limit vehicle traffic on the courses, and to honor the adventurous spirit of the event please plan to cheer on your rider at the Start and welcome them back at the Finish.

Media/Press

Please send photo/video/press inquiries to colin@thecoyotecollective.com!

Equipment Checklist

MANDATORY: Cycling computer or GPS device, minimum of 40oz of water or sports drink, two spare inner tubes, air pump or inflation system, and a cell phone to contact the“outside world” should you need help. There are many sections of the course where there is no cell service!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: GPS system to communicate your exact location to rescue personnel in the event of an emergency, small rucksack or hydration pack, waterproof jacket, extra thermal layer, emergency blanket, tire levers, puncture repair kit, chain tool, allen wrench set, spoke wrench, chain lube, handlebar map, compass, Chamois Butt’r, first aid kit, FOOD (energy bars, gels, chocolate, etc).

Special Note

All Bighorn Gravel event distances will utilize a single-loop format. Although some blacktop roads will be necessary from time to time, the vast majority of the course will be on dirt, gravel and forest service roads. Some of these roads receive little to no maintenance throughout the year and can be quite primitive in nature. In the event of inclement weather, gravel and dirt roads can become mud roads. Riders are therefore encouraged to prepare their bikes, their bodies, and their minds to be ready for any and all possible conditions. The course will be marked but remember riders are responsible for knowing the route.

The White River National Forest region of Colorado is an extremely remote area. Always be aware of the distance to the next checkpoint and be prepared to travel that distance with the supplies you carry. Participants are solely responsible for their personal well-being, will have to make their own informed decisions, and suffer the consequences of those decisions. If you do not feel you are prepared to meet such a challenge, please consider a shorter route option.