Gravel riding is quickly growing as a popular bicycling alternative throughout the United States. There’s little or no traffic to worry about as you explore rural settings and forest lands by bike. This is especially true here in Yamhill County where a network of gravel options is now available.
This comes into focus on April 13 when the Sasquatch Duro gravel cycling event takes place in Carlton. The event, featuring two distance options, attracts both competitive bike racers and casual riders who are more interested in the experience than speed.
The arrival of the Sasquatch event, which moved to Carlton for 2025, underscores the efforts of Cycle Yamhill County, a non-profit organization that has established the McMinnville area as a gravel cycling destination.
“This really supports how we feel,” says Adam Stone, spokesperson for Cycle Yamhill County. “There’s so much opportunity to make this a very accessible outdoor recreation option, and the fact that it’s been picked by one of the biggest event promoters in Oregon really says a lot.”
The promoter, Mudslinger Events, offers fully supported 40- and 67-mile route options from Carlton through the countryside and back.
“This is a well-worn route that a lot of people around here ride,” Adam says. “People call it the ‘Yamhill 8’ because it’s in the shape of an 8.”
Degree of Difficulty
Adam has some advice for anyone looking to test their gravel skills for the first time. “I break (rides) into three categories: distance, elevation, and how technical the route is,” he says. “There’s the short route, but 40 miles is not chump change. It’s a long distance for some people and it’s almost 3,000 feet (of uphill pedaling).
“A gravel beginner who can ride 40 miles could go out and do this. It’s an introductory route, and it’s not super technical.”
The 67-mile route includes almost 5,000 feet of elevation gain.
Ride Day Experience
Most participating on April 13 will have gravel experience. Those looking to race will gather near the 10 a.m. start line. Much like a 5- or 10-kilomater fun run, less competitive participants will move back and start at a leisurely pace.
E-bikes are welcome on the short loop so long as the machines meet Class 1 or Class 3 specifications.
Cyclists will head west from Carlton’s Upper City Park on West Main Street and NW Meadow Lake Road for nearly six miles before beginning the figure 8 among rolling vineyards, thick forests, and expansive farmland. Those following the short course complete one lap and longer riders make two loops before returning to town.
Once back in Carlton, everyone can enjoy live music from noon to 3 p.m. and take advantage of a $14 food voucher at downtown restaurants.
Registration and complete event information are available on Mudslinger Events’ Sasquatch Duro website – mudslingerevents.com/sasquatch-duro
Cycle Yamhill County
Now that you’re thinking about gravel cycling, take a look at Cycle Yamhill County’s network of gravel trails. Visit cycleyamhillcounty.com for details. —–
About the author: Dan Shryock is an Oregon-based author and travel writer who focuses on cycle tourism. Learn more about his book, “Cycling Across Oregon,” and his Substack work at danshryock.com.