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Arkansas Graveler 2024 Recap by Mike Piker, Hoback Athlete

August 5, 2024

I recently returned from Arkansas, where I participated in the inaugural “Arkansas Graveler.” This is a six-day gravel ride across the northern part of the state through the Ozark mountains. The ride covers 340 miles, starting in the northwest corner of the state in Fayetteville and finishing in the northeast corner in Jonesboro. Each stage varies between 50 and 75 miles per day and passes through very remote areas throughout the northern part of the state.

The ride format was point-to-point, with each stage typically ending at a state park or city park in a small rural community. Think of it as a mini gravel tour de France through the backwoods of Arkansas. In the afternoons after each stage, excellent food, hot showers, and fun activities were planned for the riders, including a cave tour, zip line runs, trap shooting, archery, fishing, live music, and even a mini bicycle crit race.

The Graveler is technically a gran fondo and is described as a casual gravel ride across the Ozarks. Well, let me say that with the heat, humidity, and vertical gain, this ride turned into quite a challenge for most riders. The typical weather throughout the ride was 95-100F with 80 to 90% humidity. On two stages, my Garmin indicated 111F on exposed gravel climbs. Ouch!! We covered 340 miles and about 25,000 vertical feet through the beautiful Ozarks when it was all said and done. And, yes, we heard banjo music in the woods, which inspired some rapid pedaling.

Although the heat and humidity were oppressive, the scenery and vibe were excellent. For a first-year event, the Graveler hit a home run. If the organizers can hold the event during the cooler months of the year, I believe it will become a very popular event. I fully intend to ride the event again next year.

 

– Mike Piker, Hoback Cycling Ambassador

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