Get Lost Gravel

  • Date Sat 1st August 2026 - Sun 2nd August 2026
  • Time 11:00AM MDT
  • Location Hamilton, Montana
  • Price Free - $102.01
  • Races 3 races
  • Distances Ultra

Event summary

Get ready for an unforgettable biking adventure at the Get Lost Gravel event, happening from August 1st to 2nd, 2026, in the stunning Hamilton, Ravalli area of Montana's Bitterroot Valley! This unique gravel race offers two exhilarating courses designed for all levels of cyclists. The Long Course, known as "The Forge," spans over 60 miles of breathtaking backcountry gravel and features a challenging 3000ft+ climb, making it a must-do for serious riders. For those looking for a shorter challenge, the Short Course, "The Smelter," invites participants to tackle a thrilling route filled with scenic views and a mix of gravel and singletrack terrain.

Both courses promise not just an incredible ride but also a chance to make a difference, as all proceeds support the Play Like Robert Foundation, which funds community projects throughout the Bitterroot Valley. With fully stocked aid stations, post-race refreshments, and a lively atmosphere back at the iconic Red Barn Bicycles, the Get Lost Gravel event is perfect for adventurers seeking both competition and camaraderie. Don’t miss your chance to experience the beautiful Montana landscape while connecting with fellow cycling enthusiasts!

Organiser's Description

Welcome to Get Lost Gravel!

With all proceeds going to charity and offering two world-class gravel loops in the Bitterroot Valley, Get Lost Gravel offers an opportunity for everyone to find adventure. Whether you are racing to win the Copper King's Mug, or looking to experience Montana gravel in a memorable and exciting way, Get Lost Gravel will challenge and delight every rider!

LONG COURSE: The Forge. This one-of-a-kind loop offers over 60 miles of continuous backcountry gravel, with a 3000ft+ climb, jaw-dropping views, and all the Montana dirt you dare to handle. Starting and finishing at iconic Red Barn Bicycles riders will enjoy an early morning rollout up gorgeous Sleeping Child Canyon. The dirt begins with a burly climb up Two Bear Road and is followed by a 50-mile high mountain circuit which gives a 360-degree tour of the Rye Creek Drainage, while also providing postcard views of the Bitterroot Mountains and valley below. Finish the day back at the Barn with copious refreshments and some grub sponsored by the Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists (vegetarian options available).

Long Course Ride with GPS [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/51917637]

* Fully Stocked Aid Stations located at mile 23.7 (Two Bear Summit), mile 49 (Start of OHV trails), mile 60.1 (end of OHV trails); there will also be water at mile 17.6 (721 Rd turnoff) for those who need a pitstop during the Two Bear ascent and mile 39.8 (God's Half Acre turnoff)

SHORT COURSE: The Smelter, has riders chasing the early morning rays up Sleeping Child Canyon to reach Two Bear Road. A winding marvel of a gravel road, Two Bear climbs its way an additional 2500 feet from the canyon floor, giving better and better views each pass. Grind your way straight to the top or take roadside selfie breaks, either way, it'll be a climb you won't soon forget! After celebrating with a fully stocked aid station at the top, try not to _GET LOST _traversing old logging roads and a bit of singletrack as you make your way towards your final challenge. A rip down Sawdust Gulch is in store before escaping out back down Sleeping Child Road. Recount the day's guts and glory back at the Barn with cold beverages and some grilled-up goodies sponsored by the Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists.

Short Course RidewithGPS [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50839755]

* Fully Stocked Aid Stations located at mile 23.7 (Two Bear Summit), mile 36.6 (Sawdust Gulch); there will also be water at mile 17.6 (721 Rd turnoff) for those who need a pitstop during the Two Bear ascent.
* The top of the singletrack is the most technical. Please walk if you don't feel comfortable, it mellows out a short distance from the drop-in.
* Sawdust Gulch is chunky. "The Gnar" as some might call it. Take your time and just know it'll all be over soon.



Podiums

Top 5 M/W Short/Long Course

Top 3 M/F Junior Short Course 18 and under

Top 3 M/F Masters 40-49, 50-59, 60+, Short/Long Course



WHAT'S INCLUDED

GET LOST GRAVEL CUSTOM GEAR
Fully stocked aid stations
Hammer Nutrition Support
Ride support
Post-race drinks
Post-race grilled fare
Finishers swag



WEEKEND SCHEDULE:

Friday:

10am - 6pm Packet Pickup at Red Barn Bicycles

Saturday:

10:00am - 4:00pm Packet Pickup at Red Barn Bicycles

11am Red Barn Ramble T-Shirt Group Ride (Open and Free to all)

* Come ride a 'Root classic with us Old Darby Road! We'll have light refreshments and snacks at the turnaround. A perfect way to shake out your legs and explore the valley. Based on participation, we can also form groups and suggest longer routes for those who are interested (e.g. Two Bear Recon, or to Lake Como)

Sunday:

6:00am - Race Day Packet Pick-up Inside the Barn

7:10am - Find starting corrals

7:20am - Long Course Race Start

7:40am - Short Course Race Start

12:00 - 4:00pm DJ Set by Cove (@cavemanjazz)

1:30pm - Short Course Podiums

2:30pm - Long Course Podiums



PLAY LIKE ROBERT FOUNDATION

We are extremely proud to be supporting the Play Like Robert Foundation again this year with proceeds benefiting their cause. PLR is involved in numerous projects and provides funding to community organizations throughout the Bitterroot Valley. More about their story and message as well as the impact they are leaving on the valley can be found at Play Like Robert [https://www.playlikerobert.org/]



CAMPING

Free on-site site dry camping is available for RVs, vans, and tent spaces, inquire with [email protected]. There are also numerous paid and dispersed camping opportunities throughout the valley provided by our partners the Forest Service.



WILDFIRE AND SMOKE POLICY

In the event of smoky conditions causing variable air-quality, Get Lost Gravel organizers reserve the right to make a final race cancellation decision by 6:00am on the race morning of Sunday August 3, 2026 based on AirNow.gov readings for the course area and locations of any active fires in the area.

The event will not be canceled for AQI 0 (green) to 150 (orange), but may be shortened.
AQI >150 (Red, Purple or Maroon) the event will be canceled, riders will have the choice to (i) defer their registration at 50% value to the next year the event is permitted or donate their registration.



*This event is currently pending final approval from the U.S. Forest Service and subject to change/cancellation.

Races

  • Long Course - the Forge - 82mi

    Incl. $7.01 Fee & Get Lost Gravel T-Shirt

    Sun 2nd August 2026 (7:30AM MDT)

    $102.01

    OPENS TOMORROW
    Long Course: The Forge. This one of a kind loop offers over 60 miles of continuous backcountry gravel, with a 3000ft+ climb, jaw dropping views, and all the Montana dirt you dare to handle. Starting and finishing at iconic Red Barn Bicycles riders will enjoy a early morning roll out up gorgeous Sleeping Child Canyon. The dirt starts with a burly climb up Two Bear Road, then a 50 mile high mountain circuit giving a 360 degree tour of the Rye Creek drainage while also providing post card views of the Bitterroot Mountains and valley below. Finish the day back at the Barn with copious refreshments and some burgers and dog sponsored by the Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists (vegetarian options available). https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49574681
  • Short Course - the Smelter - 47mi

    Incl. $5.85 Fee & Get Lost Gravel T-Shirt

    Sun 2nd August 2026 (7:30AM MDT)

    $80.85

    OPENS TOMORROW
    Short Course: The Smelter, has riders chasing the early morning rays up Sleeping Child Canyon to reach Two Bear Road. A winding marvel of a gravel road, Two Bear climbs it's way an additional 2500 feet from the canyon floor, giving better and better views each pass. Grind your way straight to the top or take roadside selfie breaks, either way it'll be a climb you won't soon forget! After celebrating with a full stocked aid station at the top, reap the rewards from all the hard work with a ripping descent down Sawdust Gulch! Recount the days guts and glory back at the Barn with cold beverages and some grilled up goodies sponsored by the Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists. https://ridewithgps.com/routes/49574680
  • Red Barn Ramble T-Shirt Ride

    Sat 1st August 2026 (11:00AM MDT)

    Free

    OPENS TOMORROW
    Join us for a shakeout ride on a Bitterroot Valley classic route. A choose your own pace, out and back adventure down the scenic Old Darby Road. Ride some or all, or even add some mileage and head all the way to the lake! This is a great way to meet other riders and explore the local riding scene We'll be starting and ending at the Barn.

Reviews

Done this event?

First-hand event reviews from people who have been there, done that and got the breathable T-shirt, really help everyone choose their next event.

Add a review

Location

Red Barn Bicycles, Hamilton, 59840, MT, United States

Who's In

See who else is doing this event

Be the first

No-one has marked this event as 'Doing' or 'Maybe' yet. Will you be the first?

More from findarace.com

You might like