Condor Gravel Challenge
San Benito County
June 7, 2026
Condor Gravel Challenge
San Benito County
June 7, 2026
San Benito County
June 7, 2026
San Benito County
June 7, 2026
A full-distance gravel adventure with approx. 6,000 ft of elevation gain.
$125
GRAVEL BIKE , CYCLOCROSS, OR MOUNTAIN BIKES ONLY
A rugged mid-distance route with approx. 5,300 ft of elevation gain.
$125
GRAVEL BIKE , CYCLOCROSS, OR MOUNTAIN BIKES ONLY
A shorter, scenic ride for the gravel-curious
$75
E-BIKE FRIENDLY
Early Bird (10% off) through April 15 • Late pricing (+10%) begins May 24
The inaugural Condor Gravel Challenge, hosted by Visit San Benito, is a celebration of gravel riding, wide open landscapes, and the remarkable beauty of San Benito County.
Inspired by the legendary Condor Classic in 2008, which drew more than 1,000 riders from across the country, this event returns with the same spirit of adventure and discovery. San Benito County remains one of California’s most under-appreciated destinations, a hidden gem of the Central Coast and the home of Pinnacles National Park.
Our goal is simple: to invite riders from near and far to experience this special place and to help support growing tourism in San Benito County.
We are proud to support the Pinnacles National Park Foundation, with a portion of event proceeds benefiting the Foundation’s condor conservation work. Your ride helps protect the landscapes and wildlife that make San Benito County so special, including ongoing efforts to support California condor recovery.

A rare chance to ride through privately held ranchland in the heart of San Benito County. Its rolling oak hills, grasslands, and wildlife habitat reflect generations of stewardship and a growing focus on ecological restoration. Access to these roads is unique to this event, a true once-a-year experience.

The Hudner Ranch area of Hollister Hills SVRA offers wide-open views of the Gabilan Range and classic San Benito County backcountry. Riders will pass through rugged hills, oak woodlands, and winding terrain that captures the region’s raw natural beauty.

Eden Rift is one of California’s oldest vineyard sites, with roots dating back to 1849. Set along the San Andreas Fault, this landscape is shaped by striking geology, limestone soils, and deep local history. This is a uniquely beautiful corner of the Cienega Valley.
"Condor Gravel Challenge offers riders an incredibly diverse parcour of punchy, rolling terrain and wine-countryside backroads following and overlooking the San Benito County Wine Trail. The route features hard-pack gravel and dirt fire roads exploring the sprawling and private roads of Paicines Ranch, steep dirt climbs to various agricultural lookout vistas, and tree-laden Jeep track through Hollister Hills State Recreation Area's Hudner Park. Those up for the challenge will also enjoy a short, well-earned detour to and through Eden Rift Vineyard, showing its Strade Bianche roads, Vitis vinifera, and hillside Terraces. While Condor Gravel Challenge encourages a "run what you brung" mentality, we do recommend a gravel, cyclocross, or XC mtb setup. We would recommend not running your 100psi 25mm road rig; however, it would certainly add to the challenge!"
"Don’t be fooled by the movie set surroundings you find yourself in: this is a challenge not to be taken lightly. Luckily, between the climbs and long descents your whole body is distracted by river crossings, wild flowers and the occasional curious ground squirrels scampering away. Since most of the trails are open with expansive views of rolling hills and distant peaks and valleys, its hard not want to reconsider your choices, and instead spread out a picnic blanket and soak it all in under a low hanging oak tree on the bluff that looks as if it has been secretly waiting for you. But the bad-ass in you wants to conquer the pain and misery of inflamed lungs and treasonous legs that have turned to stone at the wrong time. From there on, you’re bought into the trifecta of beauty, the necessary suffering, and the camaraderie of the cycling clan, all feeding our heads and bodies with glee that we get to experience this unforgettable ride!"
"To me, this area is one of the best hidden views in San Benito County. Be sure to look around at the top of the climbs—the scenery is worth it. Pinnacles National Park isn’t far from this ranch, and several well-respected wineries are tucked away along Cienega Road, definitely worth checking out when you have time.
This ride is going to be challenging. I highly recommend bringing the lowest gearing you can put on your bike, you’ll need it. If you’re looking for a tough ride with incredible views, you just found one."
"The route is really fun! It is rolling Hills with no cars seen for miles. I loved the scenery and it is a beautiful place to have the chance to ride."
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