Gran Fondo Badlands

Are you bad enough?

No matter what distance you ride, you will see lots of hoodoos, long river and coulee vistas, and the unique “badlands” scenery of the Dinosaur Valley. There will be lots of dinosaurs to see also, but most will be statues.

One of the more fun gran fondo events to take place this year.

Take in the scenery, enjoy the ferry ride across the Red Deer River,  pedal up some short but serious hills, and more! 

New for 2018 - Gravel Grinder.

The 90 km route around the Badlands is designed to include some serious climbs, windy roads through coulees and gullies and a section of a “fair weather road” that is rolling and pretty spectacular. There are some cruising sections to give your legs a break from the deep gravel and muddy roads. This is a gran fondo so there will be aid stations every 25 km, with mechanical, medical and sag wagon support, but this is one challenging ride. Only those who can comfortably road ride 140 km should consider riding this event.

Only mountain bikes or gravel bikes allowed.

Each Participant will receive:

• A Great Fondo Ride!
• Breakfast at the Community Centre
• Great Italian lunch is provided after your ride
• Great Swag
• Well Stocked Aid Stations
• Mechanical Support
• Medical Support

Mabel Outdoor Events have decided not to make this ride a timed event. It’s not about the hours, minutes and seconds, but rather it’s about the friends, ferry  ride, food and hoodoos.  And, with this said, we know you will have your own Garmin anyway, so bragging rights are in your own hands. 

We are starting at the Largest (blue) Dinosaur in the World. There should be little, if any, traffic.  The roads are in great shape with smooth pavement all the way around the course.

You Pick Your Distance

For those pushing on, the out-and-back nature of the course means riders can choose exactly how far they cover. There will be signs showing where to turn for various distances.

Times will be combined on two hills to determine the KOM/QOM so watch for the signs. Those riding 140/162 km are eligible for prizes (top 3 KOM/QOM combined times) but everyone will get the first hill climb time recorded.

Once back at the start, refreshments and a post ride lunch will be served. Put your feet up, celebrate your accomplishment and bragg to all your friends.