Do you have what it takes to take on one of the longest and toughest gravel rides in the Northeast?
You’d better be, as the routes are no joke and feature all the best unpaved roads and trails in Putnam County, NY.
You may have to give in to the dark side to complete these courses with plenty of miles and elevation (MEGA XL 125 miles of mixed surface riding and 10,000+ feet of climbing). Within the course is close to nine miles of incredible multiuse trails in Fahnestock State Park as well as many other surprises to challenge riders.
This year’s edition will be virtual. You will have the entire month of June to pick a day to ride the route of your choice. Registered riders will receive the 2026 routes including locations where you can get water and snacks. Ride does not include staffed aid stations or post ride meal that we’ve had in past editions.
Every rider will get shipped Eastern Gravel Series custom socks and water bottle. We will aslo include Empire Gravel shirts while supplies last. We’ve also produced Empire Gravel Pint Glasses, but given that it’s likely they would break in shipping we will have available to hand out at Macedonia Gravel & Jersey Gravel Grinder Duex.
While much of the course is on unpaved roads and trails, you are riding on open roads and expect to encounter cars, cyclists, hikers and maybe even some storm troopers. Please be extra mindful and respectful of others as we’re guests in these communities and want to make sure events like Empire Gravel can continue to happen in the future.
Schedule
6:15 AM Packet Pickup Open
7:00 AM MEGA XL Start
8 AM Mega Start
8:15 AM Adventure Start
ROUTES WILL BE DIFFERENT FROM LAST YEAR.
We’re including all the parts that riders loved, taking out parts that weren’t fan favorites and adding in some spicy new sections – sure you’ll love the routes!
All registered riders will be emailed a link to the RideWithGPS event with route maps and downloadable GPX files prior to event.
Here’s last year’s routes to give you an idea of what to expect:
ROUTE MAP
