Gran Fondo Ephrata (Gravel)

Registration:  Opens Feb 1

The infamous Gran Fondo Ephrata has become a Pacific Northwest “spring classic” with 80 miles of primitive central WA back roads (30 of gravel), 5000′ of climbing, and of course unpredictable spring weather.  Come prepared to be unprepared.

This is a HARD ride and is intended for experienced cyclists only. Registration opens February 1.

What you get: You will receive a super cool limited Gran Fondo Ephrata souvenir, a police escort through town, a well thought out, and well marked course to ride that will leave you hooked on gravel, a well stocked aid station to refuel at mid ride, and a hot meal to refuel post ride. We will also post the times of all finishers for bragging rights.

Route: The course is designed to give riders a glimpse of some very remote, out of the way parts of central Washington.  There is 4700′ of climbing and approximately 30 of the 80 mile route is primitive gravel roads. There will be at least one well stocked aid station at approx the half way point as well as a few sag wagons for additional assistance.

NEW GFE Light, half the calories, all of the flavor!  The full Overen road is a treat, and the chill roll out leading up is nice as well.  But don’t be fooled, this is not a lame watered down version, lots of gravel (20 miles) and a fair amount of climbing (2700′) will hit the mark.  There will be an aid station mid way and hot meal waiting at the finish.

There will be a few sag wagons and an aid station, but it’s a good idea to be self sufficient. Weather is always something to consider this time of year.

I would love to say it’s going to be sunny and 55 degrees, but it could just as easily rain or snow. Bring on the adventure baby!

KOM Challenge:  There will be two King Of the Mountain challenges: Norton Canyon Climb, and Three Devils.  To be eligible you must upload your ride to Strava within 24 hrs of the ride.  This is just for fun, remember, this is not a race and you stand nothing to gain by winning the KOM.  Other than the undying respect and adoration of your peers.