Join us as we recount a grueling yet unforgettable 220-mile bikepacking journey through West Virginia’s rugged terrain. From route planning to gear choices, weather challenges to mental resilience, this episode covers it all — with insights, humor, and lessons learned on the trail.In this episode:

• The motivations behind tackling ultra-distance gravel riding
• Detailed mile-by-mile narration of the course, including key stops and route highlights
• Weather impacts: rain, fog, and how they affected our pace and morale
• Gear assessments: tires, suspension, electronics, and the importance of lightweight packing
• Mental toughness: overcoming fatigue, confusing moments, and staying motivated
• Highlighted encounters, from the Green Bank Observatory to local stops and unexpected road conditions
• Tips for future adventures, including gear upgrades and route insights
• Reflections on the camaraderie and shared experience that makes endurance riding special

Timestamps:

• (00:00) - Introduction and episode overview
• (01:16) - Starting the journey at Spruce Knob Education Center
• (10:15) - Route planning, gear prep, and last-minute changes
• (19:23) - Climbing Buffalo Mountain and navigating rough terrain
• (21:25) - The Greenbank Radio Observatory: surreal route highlight
• (24:22) - Weather challenges: rain, mud, and muddy jeep roads
• (33:25) - Break at Alpine Lodge with strategic food and gear decisions
• (37:30) - Night riding, fog, and the summit of Spruce Knob
• (44:02) - Day two: traversing Parsons, Blackwater Canyon, and approaching the final climb
• (55:28) - The infamous Canane Loop Road: mud, water, and mental grit
• (70:33) - The ascent of Spruce Knob and celebrating the summit
• (76:20) - Descending in fog; the finish line and reflections
• (79:11) - Final thoughts: the mental and physical toll, camaraderie, and future rides

Resources & Links:

• Coros Dura Bike Computer
• Mountain House Food
• Green Bank Observatory
• Michael Easter's "The Comfort Crisis"
• Blackwater Bikes
• Still Hollow Spirits Distillery

Thanks for riding along with us — stay tuned for more adventures, gear tips, and tales from the trail!

Dave Pryor, of Gravelfest PA, and Alex Howell, of Dirty Kitten Gravel Festival, join us to discuss some exciting new offerings coming in 2026.

Discover how gravel events are transforming from competitive races to inclusive, community-focused festivals that prioritize fun, connection, and accessibility. This episode dives into the shifting landscape of gravel cycling and highlights the importance of creating welcoming spaces for all riders.

In this episode:

How gravel festivals are replacing traditional race formats and why it matters

The role of community, organic activities, and organic fun in festival design

Differences between competitive racing and festival environments in terms of stress and culture

The benefits of multi-day gravel festivals versus single-day races

How festival environments can promote diversity, inclusion, and lower barriers for women, non-binary, and underrepresented groups

The impact of industry support: balancing grassroots festivals with mainstream events

Practical tips for event organizers considering transition from race to festival

Key features of successful gravel festivals: flexible routes, community-led challenges, social engagement

Insights from organizers of Dirty Kitten Gravel Fest, PA Gravel Fest, and Unpaved

The future of gravel events: balancing tradition, innovation, and community

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction: The rise of gravel festivals over traditional races

02:19 - Why gravel festivals foster community and reduce stress

06:04 - Key differences between races and festivals in structure

10:12 - The significance of community in gravel culture

12:54 - Transitioning from competitive races to bike parties: motivation and challenges

16:46 - Planning inclusive challenges like time trials and skill clinics

22:19 - The importance of organic and organic elements at gravel festivals

26:35 - Demographic trends: Who’s showing up and why festivals attract diversity

32:25 - Safety, logistics, and managing big multi-day events

40:44 - Maintaining intimacy and connection at scaled events like Unpaved

48:05 - Industry dynamics: corporate influence versus grassroots initiatives

54:36 - How to pivot from race to festival: key advice for organizers

62:11 - Essential qualities: passion, community, authenticity in event design

67:15 - Creative ideas: fun podiums, themed challenges, and community-led activities

70:46 - Navigating GPS and route management in festival settings

77:26 - The benefits of embracing the festival model for long-term engagement

78:55 - Final thoughts: fostering a fun, accessible, and community-driven gravel culture

Additional Notes:

The episode discusses how to adapt traditional race events into more inclusive and engaging festivals, emphasizing community, fun challenges, and participant experience.

Tips for organizers include balancing structured events with free time, utilizing QR-based tracking, and promoting diversity.

The conversation highlights the potential for a broader gravel culture emphasizing accessibility, community, and sustainability.

Brian Raines shares updates on gravel biking, bikepacking, and upcoming events, including the Mon Forest routes and the East Coast Bikepacking Summit. He discusses his custom bike build, gear choices, and community activities, offering insights for bike enthusiasts and adventurers.

Key Topics...

Bikepacking gear and build choices

Mon Forest route network and festival

Community events and meetups

Bikepacking tips and gear reviews

Upcoming gravel and bikepacking events

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gravel Biking and Podcast Updates

03:00 Building a Hardtail Bikepacking Rig

11:49 Upcoming Bikepacking Summit and Community Events

29:45 Exploring the Mon Forest and New Routes

35:01 Gear Talk: Shoes and Cooking Preferences

42:44 Community Engagement and Listener Updates