New for 2027! Free camping just steps away from the start line! 3 new courses and distances. Mustang-95 miles, Gunslinger-77 miles, Hoedown-20 miles

New courses will be announced soon!

Starting in the small western town of DeBeque, CO, this is more than just a race—it’s a full-blown Wild West weekend! Cyclists will enjoy a country cookout, campfires, live local music, and camping accommodations. In true western style, it’s a hoedown you don’t want to miss!

The weekend features the Wild Horse Gravel bike races and a 55K and half marathon runs, offering something for every adventurer.

 

Three Courses. Three Ways to Ride the Wild West.

The Hoedown is a fun and approachable gravel ride with a mix of smooth gravel, flowing dirt, rolling terrain, and a few technical sections. Beginner-friendly and scenic, the Hoedown is a great introduction to rugged Western gravel.

The new Gunslinger takes riders from town to the ranch and back, offering a challenging ride without the major mountain climb of years past. Expect rugged gravel, dramatic canyons, wide-open views, and the possibility of spotting wild horses.

The Mustang is one of the most extreme gravel endurance challenges in Colorado. With big mileage, rugged terrain, climbs, and remote Western roads, this course will test you.

Adding to the exclusivity, The High Lonesome Ranch opens its rugged dirt roads only for this event, giving participants rare access to some of the best-hidden wild-west gravel.

 

Whether you’re here to crush it on the bike or savor the ride with friends, the focus is on fun. Even the speed demons pause to regroup, soak in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the incredible local treats at our fully stocked feed stations. Choose your weapon, skinny or fat tires. You won't break any records on a mountain bike but it will make for a more enjoyable experience.

Mark your calendar and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of gravel, good times, and western charm! 

Apres Race: Enjoy the Wild Horse Gravel weekend with a party in DeBeque!

Join us Saturday night for long course age group awards and a whole lot of fun in downtown DeBeque. Minter Avenue will be alive with Live Music, Food Trucks, Camp Trivia, Glowstick Bonfire/S'mores and Prizes (BYOB) @DeBeque Community Center.

2025 Racer Photos

+ - Wild Horse Challenge Click to collapse

The Wild Horse Challenge is a two-day test of grit and endurance. From the Town of DeBeque, will take on any of Saturday’s long course run or rides—Mustang, Gunslinger, or 55K run—and then lace up for the Fruita Trail Half Marathon or Hoedown Gravel ride on Sunday.

Finishers of the Wild Horse Challenge will receive a special memento to celebrate their accomplishment. After Sunday’s races, we’ll host a special awards gathering to recognize all participants.

This isn’t about ranking or placing, it’s about celebrating every athlete who takes on this incredible feat of endurance.

+ - Categories/Awards Click to collapse

 

Cash Winnings (Pro/Open Mustang Course Only) - $2,000

  • 1st Place - $500
  • 2nd Place - $300
  • 3rd Place - $200

Men's and women's age group awards will be given in the following categories for the Mustang (95 miles), Gunslinger (73 miles) and Hoedown (20 miles) races.

  • Under 20
  • 20-29
  • 30-39
  • 40-49
  • 50-59
  • 60+
  • Singlespeed

We also have a non-competitive Class 1 e-bike category for the Hoedown division.

+ - Key Event Details Click to collapse

Key Event Details
Mustang & Gunslinger Bikes
Half Marathon & Hoedown Bike
Date

Saturday, May 15th, 2027

Sunday, May 16th, 2027

Start Times

6:30 am

8:00 am

Start Location

Minter Ave
De Beque, CO 81630

Minter Ave
DeBeque, Colorado 81630

Finish Line

Same as Starting Location

Same as Starting Location

Cut Off Times

12.5 hrs

N/A

+ - Start/Finish Area and Parking Click to collapse

Minter Ave
De Beque, CO 81630

+ - Pricing Click to collapse

Pricing
Wild Horse Gravel
Hoedown 20-Mile Gravel
Gunslinger 77-Mile Gravel
Mustang 95-Mile Gravel
Early (until 1/1)

$105

$155

$180

Standard (until 3/14)

$125

$175

$200

Late (until 5/15)

$135

$185

$220

Race Weekend
$150
$200
$230

Entry fees for the Wild Horse Gravel Mustang, Gunslinger & Hoedown races include place winner awards, race mementos, aid station goodies, a finisher’s memento, post-race refreshments, and admission to all of the weekend events and activities. The entry fee is non-refundable and nontransferable.

Refund Policy:

30 Days or more prior to the Event: 85% credit of registration fee (excluding BikeReg fees).
Less than 30 days prior to the Event: No refunds or credit given.
Credits may be applied to any future Gemini Adventures race and will be valid for 12 months.
Registered runners may also switch between distances. No refunds or credit will be given for dropping down in distance. If stepping up in distance, the added current pricing of the longer distance will be charged (excluding BikeReg fees).

To request credits, log in to your Bikereg account, and go to Registration History. Select Edit for the event, and scroll to the bottom of the page where Cancel Registration is linked. Follow the prompts.

Entry fees for each race includes place winner awards, in town camping, race mementos (shirts, apparel, etc.), aid station goodies, a finisher’s memento, and post-race refreshments. The entry fee is non-refundable and nontransferable.

See more information on our refund policy below.

+ - Registration and Merchandise Click to collapse

Register

Sign up for Wild Horse Gravel; Mustang (95 mile), Gunslinger (73 Mile) or Hoedown (20 Mile) Gravel races. Register early for the best price!

Opening Soon!

New Wild Horse Gravel merchandise! Available at checkout. All jerseys must be ordered before March 20th and can be picked up at the event. We will have limited merchandise available at packet pickup.

+ - Courses Click to collapse

Courses
Mustang (95 miles), Gunslinger (77 miles) & Hoedown (20 miles)

Wild Horse Gravel – Mustang Long Course Overview

The Wild Horse Gravel Mustang Long Course is not for the faint of heart. This 95-mile grind packs in roughly 8,000 feet of climbing across some of the most remote, untamed terrain in western Colorado. Riders will face relentless ascents, rugged backcountry roads, and technical descents that demand both skill and grit. But for those willing to take it on, the reward is immense — vast high-desert views, hard-earned solitude, and the unbeatable satisfaction of conquering a true Colorado classic.

Course Breakdown:
• Start/Finish: Town of DeBeque,
CO (Elevation ~4,932 ft)
• Distance: ~95 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~8,000 feet
• Surface: 98% gravel/dirt roads, 2% paved
• Max Elevation: ~8,100 feet

Course Highlights:
• Miles 0–24: With a gun start we'll have just about a half mile neutral roll out. The primary climb begins. Expect a sustained ascent of nearly 2,000 feet over 24 miles. The grade averages 5–6% with punchy sections up to 10%, over rough and often loose gravel. This segment rewards you with expansive views of the Book Cliffs and surrounding mesas. The South Aid Station is the reward for reaching the peak of the climb.
• Miles 24–36: Although the reward for the uphill is the downhill, use caution. Watch for rutted downhills and sweeping switchbacks, especially in dry conditions when the surface can be marbly. With easy crew access, the Ranch Aid Station will be a welcome sigh with great energy.
• Miles 36–52: After leaving the Ranch Aid Station you will begin with a well maintained gradual climb. Don't be fooled, the real challenge is about to begin. The next few miles are what this day is all about. Steep and technical climbing will bring you to the North Aid Station and the high point for the day.
• Miles 52–68: The decent off of the peak is steep and loose. Walk it if you need to. At mile 61 you will complete the northern loop and begin your journey back to the South Aid Station and DeBeque.
• Miles 68–95: You will be riding exactly as you did earlier in the day until mile 80. From here you will veer off an experience more backcountry roads as you make you way back to DeBeque and the satisfaction of a well earned meal.
Aid Stations:
• South Aid Station 1 (Mile 24 & 68): Full restock including water, PB&Js, fruit, electrolyte drink, and basic mechanical support.
• Ranch Aid Station 2 (Mile 36): Crew support, full restock including water, PB&Js, fruit, electrolyte drink, and basic medical and mechanical support.
• North Aid Station 3 (Mile 52): Light restock including water, PB&Js, fruit, electrolyte drink.

• SAG & Medical: Roving support on course with sweepers behind the final riders.

________________________________________
Recommended Bike Setup:
• Tire Width: 40–45mm gravel tires with puncture resistance
• Gearing: Sub-compact or gravel-specific gearing highly recommended (minimum 1:1 ratio for climbing comfort)
• Hydration: Carry at least 2L water capacity between aid stations

________________________________________
This course is built for tough riders who thrive on remote, backcountry gravel challenges. If you’re looking to test your legs and experience Colorado’s raw, untamed landscape—this is the ride.

RideWith GPS Mustang Course Coming Soon

Wild Horse Gravel – Gunslinger Course Overview

The Gunslinger Course is a challenging 77-mile backcountry gravel route with approximately 6,000 feet of elevation gain, designed for experienced riders ready to tackle the wild terrain of western Colorado. This course showcases the raw beauty of journey from the Town of DeBeque to the High Lonesome Ranch, through the Wild Horse Sanctuary. With a dynamic blend of sustained climbs, fast descents, technical washboards, and remote high desert plateaus this course is a must do.

While the Gunslinger is an out and back, the beauty of the Little Bookcliffs Wild Horse area is stunning and worth viewing in both directions.

Course Breakdown
Start/Finish: Town of DeBeque, CO (~4,932 ft)

Distance: ~77 miles

Elevation Gain: ~6,000 ft

Surface Composition: ~99% unpaved (gravel, dirt, doubletrack), ~1% paved

Maximum Elevation: ~7,100 ft

Course Highlights

Coming Soon!

Aid & Safety Support
• South Aid Station 1 (Mile 24 & 68): Full restock including water, PB&Js, fruit, electrolyte drink, and basic mechanical support.
• Ranch Aid Station 2 (Mile 36): Crew support, full restock including water, PB&Js, fruit, electrolyte drink, and basic medical and mechanical support.

Roving SAG & Medical: Sweepers and mobile aid ensure riders are supported throughout the route.

Recommended Bike Setup
Tires: 40–45mm gravel-specific tires (tubeless, with reinforced sidewalls)

Drivetrain: Sub-compact or 1:1 gearing for steep ascents

Brakes: Disc brakes strongly recommended for technical descents

Hydration: Carry at least 2L capacity between stations (hydration pack + bottles ideal)

Navigation: GPS file and head unit encouraged; course is marked but remote

Rider Profile
The Gunslinger is ideal for intermediate to advanced gravel riders who thrive on tough terrain, strategic pacing, and remote solitude. It’s a physical and mental test wrapped in sweeping desert vistas and backcountry immersion.

Ready to ride into the wild? Saddle up—the Gunslinger awaits.

RideWith GPS Gunslinger Course Coming Soon

Wild Horse Gravel – Hoedown Course Overview

This beginner friendly course will introduce gravel riders to a true western backcountry experience with views of the Bookcliffs and fun punchy climbs and descents. This course is a nice morning challenge designed to push your sense of adventure on a Sunday morning to get back home with plenty of time to feel refreshed on Monday morning.

________________________________________
Course Breakdown:
• Start/Finish: Town of DeBeque, CO (~4,932 ft)
• Distance: ~20 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
• Surface: 96% unpaved (gravel, dirt, jeep roads, and forest doubletrack) 4% paved
• Max Elevation: ~5,300 ft
________________________________________
Course Highlights:

Coming Soon
________________________________________
Aid & Safety Support:
• Hoedown Aid Station (Mile 8): Water, electrolyte mix, bananas, gels, and snacks.
• Roving SAG & Medical: On-course support with sweep coverage for final riders.
________________________________________
Recommended Bike Setup:
• Tires: 40–45mm gravel tires (tubeless recommended) with strong sidewalls
• Gearing: Sub-compact or 1:1 gravel gearing for steep grades
• Hydration: Minimum 2L capacity between stations (bottles + hydration pack ideal)
________________________________________
Who It’s For:
This course is beginner to intermediate gravel grinders and adventurous mountain bikers who want to push themselves but leave smiling at the end of the day. If you’re looking for good old fashioned western adventure, the Hoedown delivers.

RideWith GPS Hoedown Course Coming Soon

+ - Schedule Click to collapse

Friday

4:00pm-7:00pm – Registration / Packet Pick-Up @ the De Beque Community Center, 381 Minter Ave, De Beque CO 81630

5:00pm-9:00pm – Free Camping Set-Up Throughout Town 

5:00pm-9:00pm – Free Bike Tech @ Roan Creek Bikeworks & Coffee in De Beque

5:00pm-6:00pm - Shake out ride leaving from the town of DeBeque

6:00pm-8:00pm - Fundraising Spaghetti Dinner

Saturday

5:00am–7:30am – Breakfast Bowl (Included with Registration)

5:00am–7:45am – Registration / Packet Pick-Up at the @Minter Ave, DeBeque, CO

5:00am–8:00am – Bike Tech

5:00am-8:00am – Hydration & Nutrition Station

6:30am – Mustang and Gunslinger Course Race Start with Color Guard Flags

7:30am - 55K Run Race Start with Color Guard Flags

7:45am - Kids balance bike race (Strider bikes)

12:00am–7:30pm – Post-Race BBQ (Included with Registration)

3:30pm - Pro/Open Awards

6:00pm-9:00 - Live Music, Food Trucks, Camp Trivia, Glowstick Bonfire/S'mores and Prizes (BYOB) @DeBeque Community Center

7:30 pm - Mustang & 55K Run Cut-offs

7:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Camp Trivia: Beer and Prizes @DeBeque Fire Pit

8:30 pm - Age Group Awards @DeBeque Fire Pit

Sunday

6:00am-7:45am - Registration/Packet Pick-up @Start/Finish Line

7:30am - Hoedown Bike Start

8:30am - Half Marathon Start

8:30am - FREE Kid's Running Race (10 and Under)

11:30am - Hoedown, Half Marathon & Wild Horse Challenge awards

 

+ - Results Click to collapse

+ - FAQ Click to collapse

Are Dogs Allowed?

We love dogs! High Lonesome Ranch has a strict no pets policy and they are not allowed on the premises. Please leave them at home- they will still love you when you return!

Where is the closest camping/lodging?

There will be free tent and RV camping available at the DeBeque Community Center in De Beque, CO, just a 2 blocks from the start/finish area.

  • Camping: Spots are first come, first served — no reservations needed, and there’s plenty of space for everyone.

  • Exclusive Riverside Camping: The town of DeBeque is opening riverside camping for the weekend of our event! This camping is quiet, beautiful and only about a half mile for the start line! Spots are limited and will be on a first come first served basis.
  • Camper Parking: There is plenty of camper parking around town, near the festivities.

  • Indoor Sleeping: A large gym will also be open for community-style sleeping, so you can simply bring a sleeping bag if you’d prefer not to set up a tent.

  • Hotels: The closest hotels are in Parachute, CO, about a 15-minute drive from the start line.

  • Glamping: Private camping and glamping options are available at www.kampalampa.com , just minutes from the town of DeBeque. Tell them you are with Wild Horse Gravel for a 10% discount (spots are limited).

  • You can set up your camping as early as 2:00 PM on Friday and you will need to be out by 3:00 PM on Sunday.

    Pro tip: Bring earplugs to ensure a good night’s sleep in the shared space!

Can I Go Off Trail?

Racers must stay on the designated course. Shortcutting will result in a disqualification. If you go off course, you must return to the same point you exited in order to continue.

What Weather Should I Expect?

The weather in De Beque CO can vary. The averages for May are a low of 48 degrees and a high of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. While the weather is never a sure thing, you can typically expect highs of between 70-80 degrees with very little chance of rain in De Beque during this time of year.

What About Unforeseeable Circumstances?

In the case of unforeseeable circumstances due to weather or other extenuating circumstances that prevents the safe continuation of the race, race officials may end the race at any given time without a refund of unused portions. This rule will be implemented in the most extreme cases for the safety of the riders or officials.

I Lost Something at the Event! Is There a Lost & Found?

Items left at Aid Stations and lost & found items will be available at the Awards Ceremonies.

Can I cancel my Registration?

There will be no entry transfers. If you regrettably need to cancel your registration, please use BikeReg. Cancellations are given credit of their registration payment toward any Gemini Adventures event within one year’s time, minus a 15% fee. 

What’s our Refund Policy?

30 Days or more prior to the Event: 85% credit of registration fee (excluding BikeReg fees).

Less than 30 days prior to the Event: No refunds or credit given.

Credits may be applied to any future Gemini Adventures race and will be valid for 12 months.

Registered runners may also switch between distances. No refunds or credit will be given for dropping down in distance. If stepping up in distance, the added current pricing of the longer distance will be charged (excluding BikeReg fees).

To request credits, log in to your BikeReg account, and go to Registration History. Select Edit for the event, and scroll to the bottom of the page where Cancel Registration is linked. Follow the prompts.

Got Another Question?

Contact us and we’ll send you a detailed response as soon as possible!