Events
Description
Welcome to Get Lost Gravel!
With all proceeds going to charity, the newest addition to the Montana gravel calendar will be epic! Offering two world-class gravel loops in the Bitterroot Valley, Get Lost Gravel offers an opportunity for everyone to find adventure. Whether you are racing to win the Copper King's Mug, or looking to experience Montana in a memorable and exciting way, Get Lost Gravel will challenge and delight every rider!
Long Course: The Forge. This one-of-a-kind loop offers over 60 miles of continuous backcountry gravel, with a 3000ft+ climb, jaw-dropping views, and all the Montana dirt you dare to handle. Starting and finishing at iconic Red Barn Bicycles riders will enjoy an early morning rollout up gorgeous Sleeping Child Canyon. The dirt begins with a burly climb up Two Bear Road and is followed by a 50-mile high mountain circuit which gives a 360-degree tour of the Rye Creek Drainage, while also providing postcard views of the Bitterroot Mountains and valley below. Finish the day back at the Barn with copious refreshments and some burgers and dogs sponsored by the Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists (vegetarian options available).
*UPDATED 7/29/25
- Fully Stocked Aid Stations located at mile 23.7 (Two Bear Summit), mile 39.8 (God's Half Acre turnoff), mile 49 (Start of OHV trails), mile 60.1 (end of OHV trails); there will also be water at mile 17.6 (721 Rd turnoff) for those who need a pitstop during the Two Bear ascent
- The 75 Road is fast and glorious, enjoy it while it lasts. Once on the OHV trails you're in gopher country. The intriguing looking mounds are not jumps, that's the opening to a potentially wheel swallowing gopher hole; go around, not over (trust me!)
- The current conditions for Black Tail Road are loose ball bearings ( <1" rocks) over hard pack. At these speeds, mistakes come with high consequences so please ride within your abilities and be cautious. You'll have time to catch back on coming out of Sleeping Child Canyon, but only if you stay on your bike!
Short Course: The Smelter, has riders chasing the early morning rays up Sleeping Child Canyon to reach Two Bear Road. A winding marvel of a gravel road, Two Bear climbs its way an additional 2500 feet from the canyon floor, giving better and better views each pass. Grind your way straight to the top or take roadside selfie breaks, either way, it'll be a climb you won't soon forget! After celebrating with a fully stocked aid station at the top, try not to GET LOST traversing old logging roads and a bit of singletrack as you make your way towards your final challenge. A rip down Sawdust Gulch is in store before escaping out back down Sleeping Child Road. Recount the day's guts and glory back at the Barn with cold beverages and some grilled-up goodies sponsored by the Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists.
**Updated route file 05/19/2025! New section added!
- Fully Stocked Aid Stations located at mile 23.7 (Two Bear Summit), mile 36.6 (Sawdust Gulch); there will also be water at mile 17.6 (721 Rd turnoff) for those who need a pitstop during the Two Bear ascent.
- The top of the singletrack is the most technical. Please walk if you don't feel comfortable, it mellows out a short distance from the drop-in.
- Sawdust Gulch is rocky and rutted. "The Gnar" as some might call it. Take your time and just know it'll all be over soon.
- There are currently cows ranging in the Sawdust Gulch area. If they happen to show on race day, they generally get out of the with a little coaxing but keep an eye out for freshies on course! If necessary we'll have a course marshal move the herd along.
Podiums
Top 5 M/W Short/Long Course
Top 3 M/F Junior Short Course 18 and under
Top 3 M/F Masters 40-49, 50-59, 60+, Short/Long Course
What's Included
Get Lost Gravel custom gear
Fully stocked aid stations
Hammer Nutrition Support
Ride support
Post-race drinks
Post-race grilled fare
Finishers swag
Weekend Schedule:
Friday:
10am - 6pm Packet Pickup at Red Barn Bicycles
Saturday:
10:00am - 4:00pm Packet Pickup at Red Barn Bicycles
**11am Red Barn Ramble T-Shirt Group Ride (NOTE NEW START TIME. Now there is time to visit the Farmer's Market and run in Robert's Run before!)
Come ride a 'Root classic with us – Old Darby Road! We'll have light refreshments and snacks at the turnaround. A perfect way to shake out your legs and explore the valley. It'll be very casual and go at your own pace! We can also suggest longer routes for those who are interested.
Sunday:
6:00am - Race Day Packet Pick-up Inside the Barn
7:10am - Find starting corrals
7:30am - Race Start, All distances and Categories
12:00 - 3:00pm DJ Set by Cove
1:30pm - Short Course Podiums*
3:30pm - Long Course Podiums*
*Tentative, we don't know exactly how long it'll take everyone
Play Like Robert Foundation
This year we are extremely proud to support the Play Like Robert Foundation with proceeds benefiting their cause. PLR is involved in numerous projects and provides funding to community organizations throughout the Bitterroot Valley. More about their story and message as well as the impact they are leaving on the valley can be found at Play Like Robert
Camping
On-site site dry camping is available for RVs, vans, and tent spaces, inquire with GetLostGravel@gmail.com. There are also numerous paid and dispersed camping opportunities throughout the valley provided by our partners the Forest Service.
Place
Hamilton, MT US 59840
Race Contact Info
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Sponsors