Route

We begin the day at Low Gap park in Ukiah and after a short spin though the north part of Ukiah head west on Orr Springs Rd. This quiet Mendocino County Rd. climbs 1800 ft over the first 9 miles before dropping into the Orr Springs area and then rolls along Montgomery Woods State Reserve. There is a climb to the Comptche/Orr Springs Rd and Low Gap Rd. From mile 20-22 you gain 600″ and then make the turn onto dirt on Low Gap Rd. This county road and MRC is all dirt until mile 33. Beginning at mile 22 the you will climb from 1,100 ft to the intersection with Miller Ridge. This year we have a contract with MRC (Mendocino Redwood Company) to use their land. From mile 31.3 to 44 we are on private property that is not open for pre-riding.  From here you have a ripping 13 mile gravel and paved  descent to the finish.

Rest Stops

There will be a hydration and nutrition stop at the intersection of Orr Springs Rd and Low Gap at mile 22. We’ll have bars, gels and other snacks. If you wish to leave a bottle with your name clearly labeled on it you may leave it with the NorCal BikeSport van at the start. There will be a 2nd Feedzone at mile 31. Riders can top off  and grab a quick snack.

Bike Choice/Set Up

Most rider use a gravel bike with 38-42c tires. Full knob or side tread are most common. With and equal amount of dirt to pavé it’s a touch call. Hardtail MTB is also a good option. We’ll keep you updated as we get closer to the event as the road conditions may change.

Grasshopper 2023 Facebook Group

Inspired by hikers on the John Muir Trail, we’ve created a group page for riders. You can post if you are looking for an entry, looking to sell a spot, have questions about tires and road conditions, looking to ride share, camping/lodging etc. To join the group go to Grasshopper 2023. (Note: This is NOT the Grasshopper FB) page)

Covid Protocol

Hopper Adventures is taking Covid seriously and have instituted a number of precautions, including: 

• Interested participants are encouraged to be vaccinated/boosted and to not attend if they are experiencing symptoms and/or are feeling sick the morning of the event. 
• An attendance sheet with names and contact information will be created to assist in contact tracing of any cases if we learn after the event that someone was infected. 
• At event check-in and during any time participants are in groups, we will request social distancing – i.e., six feet of separation between attendees – and ask participants to wear face masks.

Unfortunately, given that we have been living amongst Covid for two years now, we hope that all Hopper riders understand that attending mass participation events increases the chance of contracting Covid. While we are adhering to the most current health directives, we are asking for everyone’s help in ensuring as safe an environment as possible and strongly encourage everyone to maintain social distancing and to wear a mask when going indoors for registration/restrooms and when interacting with others outside of their family/pod members. We all need to do our best to maintain social distance at the start line and to wear masks when necessary. Ultimately, if you are concerned about the spread of Covid, we encourage you to pass on participating at this time. 

Lastly, if either the State of California and/or the counties in which the Hoppers are occurring impose further restrictions for our events, we will then consider options for registration transfers and credits. However, at this point in time, we are planning on holding the events in compliance with current health guidance and, thus, are not going to issue refunds or transfers to other events to registered riders. If you are uncomfortable attending any of our events for which you are presently registered, we understand your concern and encourage you to look for someone to sell/transfer your spot to as the events are or will sell out and many riders are hoping to get in; you may make transfers via the BikeReg website. Thanks for your understanding! 

Schedule

NO day of registration or transfers

Friday:

NOTE:

On Friday the private property finish from the top of Low Gap to Ukiah is NOT open to riders. They are using the logging roads. Orr Springs and Low Gap Rd are open to ride.

Packet Pick Up: (Friday evening or Sat. AM)

We will have registration/packet pick up at the Holiday Inn Express in Ukiah from 6-9 PM. Here is the MAP. 

Saturday:

NO day of registration or transfers

7:00 Registration/packet pick up in at Ukiah High School Cafeteria.

9:15-9:30

Roll to start at Orr Springs Rd. (There is NO traffic control or escort. Obey the stop signs and signals en route to Orr Springs. Staging area will be marked by Grasshopper Flags. )

9:30 Staging

10:00 Start  Orr Springs Rd. (See MAP)

1:00-? Finish  on Masonite Rd. (Private Property) and ride back to  Low Gap Park.

12:30 Lunch

2:30 Podium

Categories

Grasshoppers have always been about adventure, exploration and pushing your limits. Riders may choose their category and licenses are not required.

It’s up to you if you are out to race, ride or just enjoy exploring a new route in NorCal.  All Hopper routes are open and riders must obey all traffic laws and rules. See RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Whatcha’ get

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with 500 of your closest cycling buddies!
• Two hydration and nutrition feed zones.
• Event timing
• Free event photos from FinisherPix
• Custom Grasshopper/Specialized water bottle.
• Emergency Medical Support en route
• Cold Guayaki,
• Sierra Nevada beer
• Lunch
• Unforgettable stories of adventure!
• Prizes: Podium for top 3 each category/group
• Pro M/F $500/300/200

Transfers: Transfers to other riders and category changes can be made on BikeReg

 Results

• Results 2022
• Results 2020
• LIVE Results 2019

Route 

Huffmaster. The course starts at Maxwell High School. We head north and west on paved, FLAT roads for 25 miles.  (likely headwinds). There is a gradual climb from mile 25 to 40 and a stiff gravel climb from mile 40 to mile 43.  We top out on county road #303 at 1700 ft. From here the days most challenging, fast gravel descent drops into the valley below at Stony Creek. We continue on gravel from mile 46 to 53 and climb from 1000-1800 ft. Here we hit Sites- Lagoda Rd. and descend west on pavement to Leesville-Lagoda Rd. The course continues on a mix of pavement and gravel where you pass through Leesville Gap at mile 67. From here we continue just under 1 mile to a left turn at Huffmaster Rd. There is a short 400 ft gravel climb to the top of the summit. From here the course continues on all gravel to mile 80 to the “town” of Sites. In Sites we get back on pavement for 5 miles and then turn right off the main road back on to gravel.

Mini-Huffmaster: This route heads west to Sites and on to Leesville-Ladoga Rd where it joins the others riding the Huffmaster full route. Though shorter, there is a stiff climb from mile 14 to 17.5 that climbs from 550 ft to 1800 ft. This route has gravel on Leesville-Lagoda Rd and Huffmaster. Approximately 25 miles of gravel total.

Equipment/Tire Choice: 

We’d recommend a 38-40 tire. Either slick or semi slick/slight knobs. Overall the gravel roads are smooth and packed but there are a few sections with deep gravel and loose corners. The most important thing is to have tires in good/new condition. Be prepared! We will have some rolling support out there but it’s essential you are able to take care of you basic repairs. Recommended tool kit: 2 tubes, 2 CO2, small pump, Dyna Plug, chain tool, allen/torx wrench set, patches, tire boots.

Camping/Lodging:

There is free camping Saturday night in Maxwell by the rodeo grounds. See the MAP. 

Covid Protocol

Hopper Adventures is taking Covid seriously and have instituted a number of precautions, including: 

• Interested participants are encouraged to be vaccinated/boosted and to not attend if they are experiencing symptoms and/or are feeling sick the morning of the event. 
• An attendance sheet with names and contact information will be created to assist in contact tracing of any cases if we learn after the event that someone was infected. 
• At event check-in and during any time participants are in groups, we will request social distancing – i.e., six feet of separation between attendees – and ask participants to wear face masks.

Unfortunately, given that we have been living amongst Covid for two years now, we hope that all Hopper riders understand that attending mass participation events increases the chance of contracting Covid. While we are adhering to the most current health directives, we are asking for everyone’s help in ensuring as safe an environment as possible and strongly encourage everyone to maintain social distancing and to wear a mask when going indoors for registration/restrooms and when interacting with others outside of their family/pod members. We all need to do our best to maintain social distance at the start line and to wear masks when necessary. Ultimately, if you are concerned about the spread of Covid, we encourage you to pass on participating at this time. 

Lastly, if either the State of California and/or the counties in which the Hoppers are occurring impose further restrictions for our events, we will then consider options for registration transfers and credits. However, at this point in time, we are planning on holding the events in compliance with current health guidance and, thus, are not going to issue refunds or transfers to other events to registered riders. If you are uncomfortable attending any of our events for which you are presently registered, we understand your concern and encourage you to look for someone to sell/transfer your spot to as the events are or will sell out and many riders are hoping to get in; you may make transfers via the BikeReg website. Thanks for your understanding! 

“Rest Stops”

Huffmaster long course feed is at mile 45 and mile 68. Mini Huffmaster feed zone is at mile 32.

See the MAP

Riders doing the long course may leave bottles with NorCal BikeSport at the start. Make sure to clearly label your stuff. It will be set out at the feedzone. ALL riders must fill their own bottles. Individual support is not allowed at the feedzone. No attacking in the feedzone area or you will be DQd and excommunicated from the church of bike. We’ll have hydration, water and nutrition at all rest stops.

Schedule

Friday:

• 12:00 shake down ride from Maxwell. Join us for a 35 mile out and back to check out Huffmaster gravel section and the new gravel finish. Meet at the camping/parking area. (See Map)
• Chill time Granzella’s bar in Williams. 4-7 PM
• Race packet pick up 5-7 PM outside Granzella’s bar- north side (pick up 10% off coupon for dinner at Granzella’s

• Saturday:

6:30-9:30  Registration/sign in at Maxwell High School . Due to staggered start times and in order to limit the lines you may register closer to your start time. 

Start Times:

• 9:00 Pro M/F
• 9:05 19-29 M/F
• 9:15 30-39 M/F and Non-Binary
• 9:25 40-49 M/F
• 9:35 50-59 M/F
• 9:45 60+  M/F
• 10:00 Short Course ALL age groups

1:00-? Finish

• Podium (Pro M/F asap) All age groups during lunch
• Lunch 1:00 PM

Categories

Grasshoppers have always been about adventure, exploration and pushing your limits. Come to race, or come to adventure and explore. All Hopper routes are open and riders must obey all traffic laws and rules. See RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Podium: Top 3 overal M/F. $700/250/200

Registration: $125 on BikeReg (10% goes to Adventure Therapy Foundation) 

Whatcha’ get:

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with 300 of your closest cycling buddies!
• Two hydration and nutrition feed zones (Long Course) 1 rest stop Short Course.
• Event timing
• Emergency Medical Support en route
• Podium (Top 3 ALL categories)
• Lunch
• Sierra Nevada Beer
• Guayaki
• Custom Hopper water bottle
• Free event photos from FinisherPix

Transfers 

• Transfer to another rider: $10 Deadline Wed. 2/23  midnight on BikeReg. OR day-of $20.
• Transfer yourself from Short to Long , or Long to Short course for free on BikeReg. Deadline Wed. midnight 2/23.  OR day-of $10

 Results

• Series Points (After 2 Hoppers)
• Huffmaster 2022
• Huffmaster 2021
• Medio Huffmaster 2019
• Huffmaster 2019

Sherwood Adventure

Genius or crazy? Maybe a bit of both. This special route combines 18 miles of scenic Coast Hwy 1 from Fort Bragg to Westport. Then we head east on Branscombe to Laytonville, 4 miles of Hwy 101 and then 35 miles of dirt and gravel back to Fort Bragg.

Route: 

You can’t ride Sherwood Rd without going big. It’s close to 40 miles from Willits to Fort Bragg…one way. This means you either ride one direction on Hwy 20, you do an “out and back” or you do it a’la Hopper and ride Fort Bragg to Westport and then Branscombe Rd. to Laytonville. 

We’ve had this killer loop in the docket for years. Due to the fact that we are unable to ride the Jackson Forest section we are stoked to slot this ride in its place. There’s more pave than Jackson but trust me, it’s one of the best loops you can do on the north coast.

What to Ride?:

This is a true mixed-terrain Hopper. It’s 18 miles from Fort Bragg to Westport on Hwy 1 and then 25 miles to Laytonville on amazingly smooth pavé with nary a car to be seen. The 35 miles of gravel and dirt from Sherwood at Hwy 1 to Fort Bragg will have you grinning from ear to ear.  It’s definitely a “grave/cross” bike route. I would not recommend anything smaller than 38c tires with some good side knobs.

Camping: 

There is lots of great comping in the Fort Bragg area but is not included in reg nor available at the start/finish. See below for options.

• Reserve California (State Parks)
• Caspar/Westport  Campgrounds
• Jackson State Demonstration Forest

“Rest Stops”

There will be a fuel/hydration stop at mile 19 for  and also at mile 57.

Categories

Grasshoppers have always been about adventure, exploration and pushing your limits.  All Hopper routes are open and riders must obey all traffic laws and rules. See RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Prizes: Cash prizes for top 3 male/female.

Podium: We will have a podium for Top 3 M/F for ALL age groups.

Registration: $125. (Increase in $ is due to cost of permits and support in this remote area)

Schedule

9:00 AM Start from Noyo Headlands (or sooner!) Official start from Abalone Point 10:30 am.

• If you wish to get a VERY EARLY start and are not competing, go for it! We’ll have reg open on Sunday by 6:30 am.)

See MAP

Noyo Headlands Park

Transfers: $10 Use BikeReg to transfer or change categories

Whatcha’ get

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with 250 of your closest cycling buddies!
• Two nutrition feed zones. Plus other goodies
• Event timing
• Emergency Medical Support en route
• Cold Guayaki, Sierra Nevada beer
• Lunch by Chef Matt Accarrino
• Sierra Nevada cerveza
• Unforgettable stories of adventure!

 Results

Series Overall (After 5 races)

Sherwood Results 2022

2019 Long Course

2019 “Short” Course

Rest Stop

There will be Osmo hydration at mile 12.  You can stop to fill up or if you leave your own bottles (clearly labeled with you name) at the Windsor Bike and Sport tent at the start, we’ll have them set out for you to grab.  We’ll have hydration, nutrition, and snacks for you,  along with some cold Guayaki to get you home. (Maybe a cold beer too?)

Categories

There will be categories and awards for Lake Sonoma Grasshopper.

“Official” California Single Speed State Championships

Categories: M/F Pro, U18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+

Schedule

Registration opens: 7:30 ($75  pre reg/ +10$ day of) Juniors $35. Includes lunch, beer/cold drinks, course emergency support and awards. You will NOT need a USAC license this year.

Rider meeting: 9:45

Start: 10:00

Lunch:  1:30

Awards: 2:30

Whatcha’ get

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with 200 of your closest cycling buddies!
• One Osmo hydration and Joje Bar feed zone. Presented by Windsor Bike and Sport and Michael and Sun Solar
• Awesome prizes at the finish from our generous sponsors
• Event timing
• Podium:  top 3 all categories.
• Top 3 M/F Overall Cash prize $250/150/100
• Emergency Medical Support en route (Geyservill FD)
• Cold Guayaki, snacks at finish
• Beer provided by Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
• Unforgettable stories of adventure!
• Delicious lunch at Lake Sonoma

Camping: 

• Camping allowed Friday

Transfers: Transfer and change categories via BikeReg

Past Results

• Overall Points 2022
• Results 2022
• Results 2021
• Results 2019
• Results 2018
• Results 2017
• Results 2016

Six Sigma Hopper

Details to follow. Stay tuned.

What to Ride?:

It’s a Hopper, what can we say?! There will always be times you feel like you’re on the wrong bike 😉 We’ll update you on the conditions as we get closer and help you decide on the best set up. The two dirt sections can be challenging if things are loose and dry, but the majority of the day is on pavement.

“Rest Stops”

Aid Station #1: Mile 37

Aid Station #2: Mile 67.5

Categories

Grasshoppers have always been about adventure, exploration and pushing your limits.  All Hopper routes are open and riders must obey all traffic laws and rules. See RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Prizes: Cash prizes for top 3 male/female.

Podium: We will have a podium for Top 3 M/F/Open Gender  (ALL age groups.)

Registration: $145

Camping:

Camping is included with registration for Friday and Saturday night at Six Sigma Ranch.

Schedule

7:00 Reg opens

8:30 Staging

9:00 AM Start

Transfers: $10 ALL transfers. Use BikeReg

Whatcha’ get

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with 500 of your closest cycling buddies!
• Two nutrition feed zones. Plus other goodies
• Awesome prizes at the finish from our generous sponsors
• Event timing
• Free event photos from FinisherPix
• Emergency Medical Support en route
• Cold Guayaki
• Sierra Nevada Beer
• Camping
• Lunch
• Unforgettable stories of adventure!

 Results

“Rest Stops”

Mediano: Rest stop 1: Mile 14.5. Rest stop 2: Mile 35.5

Mero Mero: Rest stop 1: Mile 14.5. Rest stop 2: Mile 35.5. Rest stop 3: Mile 51.

There will be not bottle hand ups. All riders must stop and fill their own bottles

Categories

Mero-Mero and El Mediano will have Open/Pro M/F and age group categories.

Awards

There will be a podium and awards for top 3 in all categories in Mero-Mero course ONLY!

Transfers: All transfers/course changes must be done on BikeReg site. Transfers $10. Course change is free.

Schedule

Friday: UPDATE! VERY IMPORTANT!!! Due to a new environmental rule regarding threatened species we will NOT be able to use the M and M road as we did in 2018. All riders must use the County Rd  to Usal Beach where we will be camping. The road is usually passable in 2 wheel drive but I’d recommend carpooling and 4 wheel drive or high clearance 2 wheel drive is recommended. DO NOT bring a trailer!

Saturday AM: 6:30-8:30  Registration/sign in open ($145 pre-reg. NO day of registration)

UPDATE to START TIMES!!!

8:30 Chiquito start (There is overlap w/ Mero-Mero so we need to make sure everyone is to the first feedzone before the Mero-Mero and Mediano come through.
9:00 Roll Mediano and Mero-Mero

Saturday PM:

Late afternoon…lunch, podium.

Immediately following podium: Presentation by RFFI/Usal staff and local historians.

Campfire, cold beer and time to relax

Sunday AM: 9:00-11:00 (optional) Hike in Usal Creek watershed with RFFI foresters to learn about the history of the area and efforts being made to conserve and protect the north coast redwoods.

Camping: The entire area at Usal Beach area is part of the State Park and is open to camping. There are primitive campsites near the beach and lots in the meadow to the south of Usal Creek. There is also camping along the road to the beach in the trees. There is no fee to camp but there is no water. There are out-houses and we will have several portables. Registered riders will be sent a detailed map with camping areas outlined. Riders are welcome to bring their families to camp. Campground Map

Waivers: All (3) waivers must be signed online on BikeReg. 

Whatcha’ get

• A crazy hard, super fun two-wheeled adventure in partnership with Redwood Forest Foundation.
• Camping Friday and Saturday night
• Two  Osmo hydration and  nutrition feed zones
• Event timing
• Emergency Medical Support en route
• Cold Guayaki, beer
• Lunch by Chef Matthew Accarrino
• Podium for top 3 in each category for Mero-Mero
• Unforgettable stories of adventure!

RESULTS

2022 Mero Mero

2022 Mediano

2021 Mero Mero

2021 Mediano

2019 Mero Mero

2019 Mediano

2018 Mero Mero

2018 Mediano

GIRONA GRAVEL
GIRONA VELO
THE AUTHENTIC RIDING EXPERIENCE
May 17-23, May 26-June 1

OVERVIEW

What’s included?

• All Food & Drink
• START LOCATION: Girona
• 6 Nights Luxury Accommodation
• DAYS IN THE SADDLE: seven
• Daily Laundry Service
• AVERAGE DAILY KMs: 75-100km
• Fully supported Ride & Daily bike tune up
• BIGGEST DAY: 110km
• Energy/recovery drinks & snacks
• Airport transfers (160 Euros each way)

Girona

Girona has been Europe’s cycling mecca since the first pro teams began to arrive back in the 1990s. In recent years riders and pros alike, have discovered the abundance of incredible gravel riding opportunities around Girona. Every day offers the gravel rider a vast array of incredible dirt track options to choose from. With our guides, we have designed an itinerary that provides you a different flavour of these beautiful landscapes every day; whether that’s following a meandering river, hugging the beautiful rugged coastline, climbing a HC cat climb or rolling into enchanting cobblestoned ancient villages. We believe that we are the only cycling tour company offering this truly diverse flavour of Catalonia.

For us it’s all in the detail & care – from the moment you are collected at the airport, you will be looked after by us with meticulous care throughout the entire journey – from the daily cleaned and serviced bike, the fully equipped support vehicle, freshly laundered kit overnight and the chilled recovery shake handed to you at the end of the ride. Our team consists of an experienced mechanic and knowledgeable local guides – the support vehicle is always there for any eventuality, or a welcome haven if you need it. We also have local native support for any incidents that require assistance, be that medical or administrative.

Allow us take care of everything – so you can relish these stunning rides, eating beautiful fresh local Catalan food and sharing this unique experience with your fellow riders.

The recipe is very simple – riding through idyllic landscapes with like minded friends, quality ride support & attention, and a generous sampling of the best local food and wine…… what more does anyone need?

Accommodations

Itinerary

PROPOSED ITINERARY

DAY 1: GIRONA

Welcome to Spain! Pick up in Barcelona airport and transfer to luxury accommodation in the heart of Girona. Once settled in our hotel – we invite you to stretch the legs & roll out for a coffee spin to whet your gravel appetite!

DAY 2: GIRONA – Banyoles

Today we head North-West into the stunning Pla d’Estany region of Girona and the final destination the town of Banyoles. A beautiful lakeside town nestled between surrounded mountains and the gateway into La Garrotxa – the volcanic region of Girona. We will stop lakeside for an open air picnic style lunch with local delicacies – Catalan cheeses, Spanish Iberian ham, Gazpacho, Catalan salads to name a few. This stage offers us some stunning open compact gravel trails with the views of the Rocacorba and Mare De Deu Del Mont mountains to the North and West.

DAY 3: GIRONA – Cadeques

After our Catalan breakfast – we set off through the Alt Emporda region and the vineyards north of Girona, heading for the Cap De Creus. Arguably one of the most striking regions of this corner of Spain. The Cap De Creus coastline and the fishing village of Cadaques were immortalised by the surrealist painter Salvador Dali. We reach the ocean at the seaside town of Roses, then hug this enchanting coastline up to the mountain summit with views overlooking the entire natural park and then descend down into the breath-taking village of Cadaques where we will spend the night at our Cadaques hotel.  Once everyone has settled in and explored Cadaques, we meet for dinner and drinks in a local restaurant by the sea. This could possibly be one of your best days on a gravel bike ever!

DAY 4: Cadeques-Girona

After we load your over-night luggage while you finish your seaside breakfast – We say farewell to this magical fishing village, but not before we explore the rest of the Cap De Creus natural park. We climb out of Cadaques and descend back to the coast and to visit Cadaques’ little brother – El Port de La Selva and on through the L’Albera natural park, before turning south back to Girona. The final stretch on this beautiful return to Girona, we ride through the ancient vineyards of the Emporda D.O wine region. We arrive back to the Hotel in Girona, where your room will be as you found it.

DAY 5: GIRONA – Mountains and medieval villages

After a hearty Catalan breakfast we waste no time and head into the beautiful ‘Les Gavarres’ mountains that loom large around Girona. Before conquering two ‘Les Gavarres summits – we roll through a selection of Catalan medieval fairytale villages where a lunch stop and some delicious Catalan home cooked food is a must. This route a real favourite of the Girona gravel locals!

DAY 6: GIRONA – Caldes de Malavella

We venture south west out of Girona old town, passing along undulating forest tracks then into another dimension of the many diverse landscapes that Girona has to offer  – the region famous for natural hot thermal springs. This stage has some diverse fast gravel tracks and single track sections and a generally flatter day that means a fast day!

DAY 7: GIRONA – FINAL SPIN & FAREWELLS

Following breakfast, an easy spin to shake out those aching legs. After a farewell Catalan lunch, the final ‘salutes’ and coffees, we provide return transfer to Barcelona Airport.

LANDSCAPES OF GIRONA

We have created an experience that really show-cases the many faces of this diverse region.

The many pro teams choose Girona as their base, because they know it has all the ingredients for perfect endless riding choices – with no two days on the bike the same or even similar. This authentic Girona gravel experience offers you a taste of each diverse flavour of Catalonia –  from rugged coastline, beguiling mountains, pine scented forests, medieval villages, ancient vineyards and olive groves to name a few. This is what makes Girona a true cycling paradise……And don’t be surprised to be passed by a pro team out training out in this stunning Catalonia landscape.

CATALAN FOOD AND DRINK

Yes this trip is all about the gravel – but with this all inclusive experience we would like you to sample some of the exceptional food and drink that has put Girona on the culinary world map. Every night we invite you to dine at our favourite authentic Girona restaurants.

Catalonia has arguably some of the finest cuisine in the world, made internationally famous by Ferran Adria’s “El Bulli” and the 3 time best restaurant in the world “Celler Can Roca”. But you don’t have to frequent Michelin starred restaurants to experience great authentic Catalan food – well selected local family run restaurants will provide you with unforgettable hearty delicious local food and wine.

It would be a crime not to indulge in the typical Catalan favourites like fideua (noodle paella), pa amb tomaquet (tomato bread), embotits (Catalan cured meats), bolets (wild mushrooms), escalivada (smoky grilled vegetables), Botifarra(barbequed Catalan sausages),Esqueixada de Bacalao (salt cod salad)or fresh fish & seafood plucked from the Mediterranean sea.

In recent years Catalonia has also seen its wines win international acclaim like Penedes and Priorat, but also you are now seeing smaller wine regions like Emporda, costers del segre and Monsant recognised among some of the best wines in Spain.

Allow us to take you to some hidden treasures to taste the real flavours of Catalonia – at Restaurants, artisan local food & wine producers, food markets, ‘comida campera’ (alfresco eating) and many more culinary gems.

RIDE OPTIONS

We understand if you would rather bring your own bike, but if you would like us to take care of it – we can offer a range of high end gravel bike rental options according to your requirements and personal preferences. We typically carry the following ride options, but can always try to procure a particular bike brand you may have. Our qualified mechanic can also fit your pedals, saddles and computer mounts or we can obtain and fit the same or similar set up if desired. The gearing ratios are generally configured for a basic gravel bike set up – 1×11 Groupset. Whether you decide to bring your own ride or use a high end rental bike – the expert mechanic will make sure it is cleaned, serviced and ready each morning for the challenge ahead!

*There as a small additional charge of €340 per trip for bike rental.

** In case any stock is unavailable at the time of your trip due to high demand – we will replace with a model of similar or higher spec. 

WHAT’S NEXT?

To guarantee your space on this unique experience – please drop us an email at INFO@GIRONAVELO.COM. Once confirmed we would just require 40% of the total trip cost and the remaining funds 30 days prior to the departure.

Visit GironaVelo website for more information.

All inclusive experience cost per guest: €4,300

Humboldt Hopper

Feels like coming home. Though I only spent 4 years living in Humboldt I’ve been returning to ride for the last 30 years. It’s among the majestic Old Growth redwoods, the rolling ridges and remote coastline that I first learned the joy of turning myself inside out in search of adventure. There are two sections of dirt and a little-known seasonal crossing of the Eel River. Atop Bear Ridge/Monument Road you will be treated to epic views of the mouth of the Eel River and the Pacific Ocean. If the Unknown Coast is still unknown to you, you are in for a treat. With two timed sections this will be a perfect finale to the Hopper Series 2022. It will be hard enough to be dubbed a “ProperHopper” but we’ll build in great feed zones and riders will have a chance to regroup, enjoy the beautiful scenery and cruise with their friends. To top it all off, our staging and after party/podium will be next to the Eel River on Dyerville Bar where we can swim, enjoy lunch and a cold beverage, and swap stories from the day’s adventure.

What to Ride?:

The idea set up is either a road or gravel bike with 30-38 c slicks. Bigger is not always better and side knobs are not essential. The two dirt sections can be challenging if things are loose and dry, but the majority of the day is on pavement.

“Rest Stops”

Aid Station #1: Mile 37

Aid Station #2: Mile 67.5

Categories

Grasshoppers have always been about adventure, exploration and pushing your limits.  All Hopper routes are open and riders must obey all traffic laws and rules. See RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Prizes: Cash prizes for top 3 male/female.

Podium: We will have a podium for Top 3 M/F/Open Gender  (ALL age groups.)

Registration: $125. (Increase in $ is due to cost of permits and support in this remote area)

Camping:

If you don’t have camping yet, try the Humboldt Fairgrounds in Ferndale. Please DO NOT camp in the parking area for the event. All riders must camp in designated camping areas as per our permit with Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

Results 2022

Schedule

7:00 Reg opens

8:30 Staging

9:00 AM Start

You are welcome to start early. The first Segment will open at 9:30 am and Feedzone #1 will be ready by 10:00.

Here is the rider email with all the essential detail about the day.

Online reg is closed but there IS day of reg.

Transfers: $10 ALL transfers. Use BikeReg

Whatcha’ get

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with 350 of your closest cycling buddies!
• Two nutrition feed zones. Plus other goodies
• Awesome prizes at the finish from our generous sponsors
• Event timing
• Registration Packet : Guayaki Organic Energy, Osmo hydration,
• Emergency Medical Support en route
• Cold Guayaki, malted beverages, snacks at finish
• Lunch
• Unforgettable stories of adventure!

 Results

2022 Results

Overall Series Standings 2022

“Rest Stops”

Feedzone #1: King Ridge and Tin Barn (end of segment 1)

Categories

Grasshoppers have always been about adventure, exploration and pushing your limits. All Hopper routes are open and riders must obey all traffic laws and rules. See RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

Prizes: Podium top 3 in all categories. LONG COURSE  ONLY. Riders competing for series points must do long course with Annapolis. Magnum of RedCar wine for 1st M/W. Prizes only, no cash for Pro/Open field.

Bike/Tires

This a classic Hopper road stage. The only dirt/gravel section is Kruse Ranch Rd. which can easily be done on a road bike. Whether you are on a road or gravel bike I’d recommend 30/32 c slicks for the day.

Schedule

• 6:30-9:00 Registration/sign in open
• Staging/Start: We will have no official Staging/Start. Read below for details.

Course change: There will be just ONE segment.

 Awards/Podium will be at 2:30. We’ll have pizza from Gold Coast Bakery, lunch w/ Chef Matt Accarrino and cold Sierra Nevada, so hopefully you can stick around. 

Below you will find the start/end time limits for each segment. 

Note: It’s ESSENTIAL that you do NOT WRAP your race number. It must be mounted flat on your handlebars without bending the timing chip. With this timing format there is no way to manually enter riders times if the chip from their number plate is not read. 

• Refer to the map on the web page (RidewithGPS) for the exact location of the segments. They are the same for the Long and Short Course
• You must roll out in the time slots noted below, BUT you do NOT have to roll out in your specific age group. 
• There will NOT be pre race announcements or mass roll out. Please roll out in small groups of 2-10 riders. 

Segment 1

• Start – ALL (9:30-10:30) (mile 12)
• Please roll out solo or in small groups
• End/Close -No cut off for end of segment 1 

Podium 2:30 Gold Coast Coffee  

Transfers: Online transfer window is closed. Day of transfers can be done for $20.

Whatcha’ get

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the “Volunteer Fire Foundation“

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with 300 of your closest cycling buddies!
• Two  Osmo hydration and nutrition feed zones
• Awesome prizes at the finish from our generous sponsors
• Event timing
• Emergency Medical Support en route
• Cold Guayaki, Sierra Nevada beer
• Lunch
• Unforgettable stories of adventure!

Transfers: $10. Use BikeReg to make transfers or change categories/routes.

Past Results

• Series Points (After 3 Hoppers)
• 2022 Long/short
• 2016 Results
• 2017 (60 mile)
• 2017 (85 mile)
• 2018 (60 mile)
• 2018 (80 mile)
• 2019 (80 mile)
• 2019 (60 mile)