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GRIT Gravel Grinder: Premier Mixed-Surface Cycling Event in Rothrock State Forest

Nestled on the edge of State College, Rothrock State Forest spans over 200,000 acres of forested ridges and rhododendron-lined streams, with more than 100 miles of trails. Long a haven for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, the forest has recently drawn gravel cyclists eager to tackle its 200+ miles of gravel roads and snowmobile trails.

GRIT Gravel Grinder: Premier Mixed-Surface Cycling Event in Rothrock State Forest

Gravel, or "mixed-surface," cycling is an exciting, fast-growing discipline. Riders typically choose bikes blending road and mountain features—drop bars, knobby tires—for versatility across pavement, gravel, doubletrack, and singletrack. It revives cycling's adventurous roots: the freedom to go anywhere and explore.

A Cyclist's Paradise

Gravel events nationwide emphasize exploration, adventure, and community, often with a relaxed vibe compared to road or mountain bike races—yet equally challenging. Central Pennsylvania has seen a surge: Keystone Gravel covers 80 miles in Tiadaghton and Sproul State Forests in September, while UnPAved in Lewisburg offers 30-120 miles in Bald Eagle State Forest in October. Both sell out annually, attracting riders nationwide. Rothrock was next.

Inspired by these, after two years of planning, the inaugural GRIT Gravel Grinder launched on June 6, 2020, in Happy Valley. Distances: 25, 49, and 65 miles for all levels. The goal: showcase gravel riding's joys and Rothrock's beauty.

GRIT Gravel Grinder: Premier Mixed-Surface Cycling Event in Rothrock State Forest

Organizer Tanya Hampton, a seasoned forest explorer by bike, curated challenging and scenic routes. "I mapped the toughest sections, best views, and cell spots—key for race planning," she notes. Shorter options welcome beginners: "A 25-mile ride builds success, fueling long-term passion."

Hampton champions cycling's lifestyle benefits: health, eco-friendliness, cost savings, community—and advocacy for better bike infrastructure in State College.

To boost gender balance in a male-dominated sport (10-20% women), half of 300 spots were reserved for females. Registration hit capacity with perfect parity—sold out.

Hosted at Tussey Mountain Ski Area, the event featured pre-ride packet pickup at 814 Cidery with guest Selene Yeager (Bicycling Magazine writer, author), aid stations with snacks and bike support from The Bicycle Shop, post-ride meals, event beer from Robin Hood Brewing, and family fun. Sponsors: Specialized Bikes, Clif Bar, Drondiculous (drone footage), Freewheel Creative.

Though sold out, Rothrock beckons year-round cyclists. See below for self-guided tips!

GRIT Gravel Grinder: Premier Mixed-Surface Cycling Event in Rothrock State Forest

Group Rides

Join locals for guided exploration and camaraderie:

  • Freeze Thaw Cycles: Wednesday gravel rides from Galbraith Gap (7 p.m., warmer months); winter MTB around town. Monday beginner MTB. Follow @freezethawcycles on Instagram.
  • State College Cycling Club: Tuesday summer road rides, varied lengths/paces.
  • The Bicycle Shop: Weekly women's beginner MTB rides.
  • Pedals and Pints: Penns Valley social rides (15-20 miles, Wednesdays mid-May to mid-Sept., Millheim Fire Co., 6 p.m.). All bikes/levels; $3 charity donation.
  • Nittany Mountain Bicycling Association: Thursday singletrack rides (spring-fall).

Explore Solo

DIY adventures:

  • Purple Lizard Maps: Top Rothrock, Bald Eagle, Moshannon guides. Buy online/local; blog for routes.
  • Our site's aggregated road/gravel/MTB trails list.
  • Trailforks/MTB Project apps: Routes, stats, reviews, GPS (note: spotty cell service).

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Ask at a Bike Shop

Visit Freeze Thaw Cycles or The Bicycle Shop for expert route advice.


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