IRONBULL showcases gravel in free ride
Gravel riders can choose one of three looped routes. Photo credit: Gary Barden Photography
Riders can enjoy solitude on the forested gravel roads. Photo credit: Shane Hitz
RINGLE – After organizing a series of free trail runs, IRONBULL is shaking it up by offering a free gravel ride called the Essential Gravel Bike Ride. The ride starts and finishes on the Mountain-Bay State Trail near Ringle. Riders have three looped course options: 10 miles, 20 miles or 44 miles in an effort to appeal to both the first-time gravel rider and the experienced gravel enthusiast (and cyclists of all abilities in between).
Gravel races typically use a mix of low-traffic roads, forest roads and occasionally a bit of trails to showcase scenic views that a traditional road biker may not otherwise encounter. The Essential Gravel Bike Ride will feature the Mountain-Bay State Trail, pass by several lakes and for the 44 mile riders, include the Wiouwash State Trail and pass a historic train depot.
Remaining true to gravel races, this ride will be completely self-supported and unmarked but the route’s GPS file, map, and cue sheet are available on the IRONBULL website for riders to download.
“This gravel ride is perfect for someone new to gravel riding with three loop options, all of which are relatively flat,” said Shane Hitz, course designer and race director of the Red Granite Grinder gravel bike race.
The Red Granite Grinder highlights the western portion of Marathon County whereas the Essential Gravel Bike Ride travels on the eastern side of Marathon County.
"Although gravel is less common in eastern Marathon County (roughly half of the route is gravel) the more abundant lakes add a scenic value," said Hitz.
“After fantastic feedback from riders during the inaugural Red Granite Grinder, I was ecstatic that Shane was willing to design this course for riders,” said Andrea Larson, executive director of IRONBULL. “I have no doubt first time gravel riders will enjoy the course.”
Riders may complete the routes as many times as they want between June 19 to June 28 and are eligible for a variety of prizes.
Participants are encouraged to register for the free event to track community impact, abide by current COVID-19 guidelines and buy a state trail pass.
IRONBULL plans to continue to offer outdoor recreation opportunities through the summer for the community. Next IRONBULL will feature Wausau’s waterways with a downtown Wausau flatwater paddle July 1 to 12. Then IRONBULL plans to combine all three disciplines (trail running, biking and optional flatwater paddling) for a duathlon/triathlon. A recreational road bike ride is also in the works.
For more race information on the IRONBULL Essential Gravel Bike Ride and other upcoming events go to the IRONBULL Facebook page or https://www.ironbull.org/essential-gravel-ride-details