The Rides

~100 KM | ~6,000 ft climbing | 32% Paved | Start: 7:00 AM

Gravel bikes, cyclocross or mountain bikes recommended

The Condor Primal Challenge delivers a full-day gravel adventure through three of San Benito County’s most distinctive landscapes, combining private land, rugged backcountry terrain, and historic vineyard roads. 

The route begins within Paicines Ranch, where riders roll through oak studded hills, reservoirs and regenerative rangeland that is typically closed to the public. Riders will encounter the featured timed segment: The Double Trouble, a two-part climbing challenge featuring back-to-back hills that test both strength and endurance while rewarding riders with expansive valley views. From Paicines, riders flow north through the open stretches of Cienega Valley before turning into the punch, undulating doubletrak of Hollister Hills SVRA’s Hudner Ranch. Clay-rich soil, short steep pitches, and rugged terrain make this one of the most challenging and memorable sections of the day. After exiting Hudner Ranch, the route returns along Cienega Road and enters Eden Rift Vineyards, where riders spin along the vineyard's flagship Strade Bianche roads tracing the San Andreas Fault and winding past historic vines and winery buildings. From there, the course loops back toward Paicines Ranch for a final push through familiar terrain, finishing where it all began at the festival area.

Timed Climb: The Double Trouble

Located early in the course, this sustained climb sets the tone for the day.

• Start: KM 19.1
• Distance: 9.8 KM (6.1 mi)
• Elevation Gain: 445 M (1,460 ft)
• Average Grade: 3.7%
• Max Grade: 13.3%
  

Price: $125 + Fees 

Registration: Early Bird (10% off) through April 15, Late Pricing (+10%) begins May 24

~50 KM | Start Time: 10:30 AM

E-bike friendly.

This ride is for the gravel curious or E-bike enthusiast. You will depart Paicines Ranch and head out on the paved Cienega Road, riding though San Benito Counties Historic wine region, dating back to 1850’s. You will ride along the Gabilan Mountain Range to Eden Rift Vineyards, with the oldest producing vines. There is an aid station at the winery and you have the opportunity to ride on the gravel trails through the vineyard, for amazing views. Then ride back to Paicines Ranch on Cienega Road. 

Price: $75 + Fees 

Registration: Early Bird (10% off) through April 15, Late Pricing (+10%) begins May 24