Le Grand du Nord Gravel Classic

  • Date Sat 23rd May 2026
  • Time 8:00AM CDT
  • Location Grand Marais, Minnesota
  • Price $38.35 - $80.75
  • Races 4 races
  • Distances Ultra

Event summary

Join us for the exhilarating Le Grand du Nord Gravel Classic on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in the picturesque town of Grand Marais, Cook County, Minnesota! This thrilling cycling event features one of the most breathtaking gravel courses in the United States, offering participants a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of the Sawtooth Range and the shores of Lake Superior.

Cyclists can choose from three race distances: the challenging 110-mile route with 6,000 feet of climbing, the adventurous 50-mile course with 2,600 feet of elevation gain, or the spirited 26-mile ride featuring 1,700 feet of ascent. Each course showcases well-maintained Forest Service and county gravel roads, ensuring a memorable experience for riders of all skill levels. As you pedal through this scenic terrain, take advantage of the vibrant atmosphere in Grand Marais, where you can shop and dine between rides. So gear up, embrace the beauty of nature, and get ready to ride the good line at Le Grand du Nord Gravel Classic!

Organiser's Description

WELCOME TO LE GRAND DU NORD GRAVEL CLASSIC!



Le Grand du Nord is one of the most spectacular gravel courses in the United States. Beginning in downtown Grand Marais, riders will quickly leave the shores of Lake Superior as they head into the Sawtooth Range. The first few miles for all routes are paved as you leave town and get set for each course.

110 MILE: With 6000 ft of climbing and a decidedly remote feel, the 110 mile course is unlike any other gravel century. Most of the course is well maintained Forest Service and county gravel road. There is a 5 mile section of especially rough, rocky two track with a likely stream crossing (depending on the weather and local beaver activity.)



50 MILE: 2600 ft of climbing. The same remote feel as the 110 miler. Mostly well maintained Forest Service and county gravel road. Hilly but there are no two track/B-Road sections. One of my favorite routes of all time.



26 MILE: 1700 ft of climbing. Though shorter, it does have significant climbing. The route is a mix of pavement leaving and entering Grand Marais with well maintained Forest Service and county gravel road for the majority of the course. There are no two track or trail sections.



We recommend bicycles that can fit tires 35-45 mm wide.



Le Grand du Nord is a great way to start your cycling season. Grand Marais is one of the coolest towns in Minnesota. The harbor and views from downtown and the Sawtooth Range are spectacular. Walk from the Le Grand Tent to shop and eat. And did we mention how beautiful these Le Grand routes are?



We welcome back our amazing Sponsors and partners. Thank you!



RIDE THE GOOD LINE!

Races

  • Le Grand 100 Mile

    Incl. $5.75 Fee

    Sat 23rd May 2026 (8:00AM CDT)

    $80.75

    OPENS 28 FEB
    Welcome to the 2026 Le Grand du Nord Gravel Classic! 110 Mile: With 6000 ft of climbing and a decidedly remote feel, the 110 mile course is unlike any other gravel century. Most of the course is well maintained Forest Service and county gravel road. There is a 5 mile section of especially rough, rocky two track with a likely stream crossing (depending on the weather and local beaver activity.) Thank you for bringing your Graveleer spirit to the event. We welcome all and encourage you to be respectful visitors to this amazing community of Grand Marais. And please say hello to someone new during the weekend. Who knows, maybe it's their first rodeo. Thank you! You may change your event distance until May 1. You are responsible to know: No refunds, no transfers to next year. You may transfer to another person to take your place at the 2026 Le Grand du Nord only. This event is challenging. You may have to walk. There may be route changes due to extreme weather events or unforeseen road closures. You are sharing the road with other cars, UTV's, pedestrians and equestrians. You ARE NOT entitled to the whole road. Please ride far right. We ask that you are courteous to other local users and participants. If we find out that you are not sharing the road or are otherwise being unfriendly, you WILL NOT be welcomed back to future Heck of the North Productions events. No questions asked. Helmets are required. Please contact me with questions. [email protected] Please follow our Cadence journal site for regular posts on all things gravel cycling. Thank you and Ride the Good Line!
  • Le Grand 50 Mile

    Incl. $5.75 Fee

    Sat 23rd May 2026 (8:30AM CDT)

    $80.75

    OPENS 28 FEB
    Welcome to the 2026 Le Grand du Nord Gravel Classic! 50 Mile: 2600 ft of climbing. The same remote feel as the 110 miler. Mostly well maintained Forest Service and county gravel road. Hilly but there are no two track/B-Road sections. One of my favorite routes of all time. Thank you for bringing your Graveleer spirit to the event. We welcome all and encourage you to be respectful visitors to this amazing community of Grand Marais. And please say hello to someone new during the weekend. Who knows, maybe it's their first rodeo. Thank you! You may change your distance until May 1. You are responsible to know: No refunds, no transfers to next year. You may transfer to another person to take your place at the 2026 Le Grand du Nord only. This event is challenging. You may have to walk. There may be route changes due to extreme weather events or unforeseen road closures. You are sharing the road with other cars, UTV's, pedestrians and equestrians. You ARE NOT entitled to the whole road. Please ride far right. We ask that you are courteous to other local users and participants. If we find out that you are not sharing the road or are otherwise being unfriendly, you WILL NOT be welcomed back to future Heck of the North Productions events. No questions asked. Helmets are required. Please contact me with questions. [email protected] Please follow our Cadence journal site for regular posts on all things gravel cycling. Thank you and Ride the Good Line!
  • Le Grand 26 Mile

    Incl. $3.35 Fee

    Sat 23rd May 2026 (9:00AM CDT)

    $38.35

    OPENS 28 FEB
    Welcome to the 2026 Le Grand du Nord Gravel Classic! 26 Mile: 1700 ft of climbing. Though shorter, it does have significant climbing. The route is a mix of pavement leaving and entering Grand Marais with well maintained Forest Service and county gravel road for the majority of the course. There are no two track or trail sections. Thank you for bringing your Graveleer spirit to the event. We welcome all and encourage you to be respectful visitors to this amazing community of Grand Marais. And please say hello to someone new during the weekend. Who knows, maybe it's their first rodeo. Thank you! You may change your distance until May 1. You are responsible to know: No refunds, no transfers to next year. You may transfer to another person to take your place at the 2026 Le Grand du Nord only. This event is challenging. You may have to walk. There may be route changes due to extreme weather events or unforeseen road closures. You are sharing the road with other cars, UTV's, pedestrians and equestrians. You ARE NOT entitled to the whole road. Please ride far right. We ask that you are courteous to other local users and participants. If we find out that you are not sharing the road or are otherwise being unfriendly, you WILL NOT be welcomed back to future Heck of the North Productions events. No questions asked. Helmets are required. Please contact me with questions. [email protected] Please follow our Cadence journal site for regular posts on all things gravel cycling. Thank you and Ride the Good Line!
  • Le Grand 26 Mile E-Bike Team (One E-Bike, One Non E-Bike)

    Incl. $3.35 Fee

    Sat 23rd May 2026 (8:30AM CDT)

    $38.35

    OPENS 28 FEB
    Welcome to the 2026 Le Grand du Nord Gravel Classic! Le Grand 26 Mile E-Bike Team. One E-bike and one non E-bike team must finish together. Non Competitive category. 26 Mile: 1700 ft of climbing. Though shorter, it does have significant climbing. The route is a mix of pavement leaving and entering Grand Marais with well maintained Forest Service and county gravel road for the majority of the course. There are no two track or trail sections. Thank you for bringing your Graveleer spirit to the event. We welcome all and encourage you to be respectful visitors to this amazing community of Grand Marais. And please say hello to someone new during the weekend. Who knows, maybe it's their first rodeo. Thank you! You are responsible to know: No refunds, no transfers to next year. You may transfer to another person to take your place at the 2026 Le Grand du Nord only. This event is challenging. You may have to walk. There may be route changes due to extreme weather events or unforeseen road closures. You are sharing the road with other cars, UTV's, pedestrians and equestrians. You ARE NOT entitled to the whole road. Please ride far right. We ask that you are courteous to other local users and participants. If we find out that you are not sharing the road or are otherwise being unfriendly, you WILL NOT be welcomed back to future Heck of the North Productions events. No questions asked. Helmets are required. Please contact me with questions. [email protected] Please follow our Cadence journal site for regular posts on all things gravel cycling. Thank you and Ride the Good Line!

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Location

233 West HWY 61, Grand Marais, 55604, MN, United States

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