Gran Fondo Ephrata -Medio

Sweeping views, snow on distant hills (late March), sense of remoteness.

lots of climbing early on. zero traffic

Be prepared, the gravel sections are sketchy.

As of March 23, 2025, lots of new, large gravel (more like rocks!) making for an unstable surface, particularly on the descent around mile 18. Anticipate lots of wind unless you are really fortunate with the weather.

Beautiful scenery. Some sketchy descents, but ultimately very fun.

Very well planned and supported. Gravel sections were in great condition. Even the weather was great.

Good route on a great day. Conditions vary though.

There is a good bit of climbing on this route and most of the gravel sections are not the chunky jarring kind of gravel. The climbs are typically of a manageable grade although there are some shorter steep ramps.

Great course/event.

This course was used for a gravel bike event. This route includes gravel and asphalt roads and involves plenty of hills. The rider that undertakes it needs to have some form and bring not only an extra tube, but also some hydration and food. In addition, good balance is needed to manage areas where the gravel is thick. Keep your line and ride within your control comfort zone bc if you take a fall, the cellphone service may not be available. Exercise caution.

21 of 45 miles of gravel roads that are pretty smooth and not very sandy. No dogs! Minimal traffic except a little closer to town but even that was only a few cars (Sunday morning).

Vicious cycles event, good mix of gravel and road. Saw hardly any traffic during the ride.

This is not your first gravel ride. It's all climb and descend. You will encounter all kinds of gravel. Loose, compacted, chunky, small and down right rutted out and big. The descents were either scorching fast pavement or sketchy gravel. I almost went down twice. If you choose to do this ride know that you will not see an opportunity to get water for the entire 45.8 miles. You will need to be fully supported.

The view of sagebrush-blanketed rolling hills was spectacular. Snowy mountains in the distance set a perfect backdrop for what is intended and early spring ride.