Condor Gravel Challenge: The Ultimate Gravel Bike Challenge

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

Gravel bikes, cyclocross, or mountain bikes recommended

The Condor Gravel Challenge offers an exhilarating full-day gravel adventure through three of San Benito County’s most distinctive landscapes, merging private land, rugged backcountry terrain, and historic vineyard roads.

The route kicks off at Paicines Ranch, where riders traverse oak-studded hills, reservoirs, and regenerative rangeland that is generally off-limits to the public. Participants will face the highlighted timed segment: The Double Trouble, a two-part climbing challenge that tests both strength and endurance, rewarding riders with breathtaking valley views. From Paicines, riders will flow north through the expansive stretches of Cienega Valley before diving into the challenging and undulating doubletrack of Hollister Hills SVRA’s Hudner Ranch. With clay-rich soil, steep pitches, and rugged terrain, this section is among the most memorable of the day. After leaving Hudner Ranch, the route returns along Cienega Road and enters Eden Rift Vineyards, where participants will navigate the vineyard's flagship Strade Bianche roads, tracing the San Andreas Fault and meandering past historic vines and winery buildings. The course then loops back toward Paicines Ranch for a final push through familiar terrain, culminating where the adventure began at the festival area.

Timed Climb: The Double Trouble

Positioned 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

~55 KM | Start Time: 10:30 AM

E-bike friendly.

Join us for the Condor Gravel Challenge, a perfect ride for both gravel adventure seekers and E-bike enthusiasts. Departing from Paicines Ranch, you'll journey along the paved Cienega Road through the historic wine region of San Benito County, which dates back to the 1850s. Enjoy stunning views as you ride alongside the Gabilan Mountain Range to Eden Rift Vineyards, known for having the oldest producing vines. An aid station at the winery offers refreshments, and you can take the opportunity to explore the gravel trails winding through the vineyard for breathtaking vistas. Then, make your way back to Paicines Ranch on Cienega Road.

Price: $75 + Fees

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