
Unbound Gravel
Emporia, KS
Sat, May 30, 2026 at 06:00:00
About this event
Unbound Gravel — Emporia, Kansas
UNBOUND Gravel is the world's premier gravel cycling event and the race that launched the gravel cycling movement. Held each spring in Emporia, Kansas, UNBOUND draws thousands of riders from around the world to tackle the legendary Flint Hills gravel roads.
DISTANCES: - UNBOUND 350: The ultimate gravel challenge — 350 miles through the Flint Hills - UNBOUND 200: The flagship event — 200 miles of rugged gravel roads, creek crossings, and relentless hills - UNBOUND 100: 100 miles of challenging gravel - UNBOUND XL: An extended distance for the truly adventurous - UNBOUND 50: A more accessible introduction to gravel racing - UNBOUND 25: A beginner-friendly distance
THE COURSE: The Flint Hills of east-central Kansas offer some of the most challenging gravel riding on earth. Loose limestone, chunky flint rock, creek crossings (sometimes waist-deep), gates to open and close, and the rolling tallgrass prairie create an unforgettable experience. Mechanicals, flat tires, and navigating by GPS are all part of the adventure.
The race starts and finishes on Commercial Street in downtown Emporia, with the entire town turning out to celebrate. The finish line atmosphere — especially for the 200-mile riders finishing after dark — is one of the most emotional in all of cycling.
UNBOUND operates on a lottery registration system due to overwhelming demand. Entry is not guaranteed.

