This route is brought to you by Eunice Garcia, the "Gravel Loca" who lives in Houston, TX. She's one of the organizers of Gravel Locos, a gravel event in Hico, TX on May 22nd, 2021. It is technically sold out, but you can is still get in if you want to donate!
There are two fun water crossings- one at mile 37 and another again at mile 59. At the time we did it , the water was only a few inches deep and very passable (but I imagine it varies at different times of year.)
The first 24 miles and the last 25 miles are packed, smooth and fast dirt roads.
Expect to see lots of cattle with long horns and some cute llamas too!
Miles 24-49 have very challenging terrain. The roads have loose gravel and are generally quite rough and bumpy. (Make sure you have good handlebar tape and decently padded gloves- the vibration on the handlebars can get intense!)
There were a few dogs on the route but they were nothing to worry about.
Do this ride if you are looking for a great training route for a challenging endurance ride such as Unbound Gravel.
The map is easily adjustable so you could change where you start and do less distance if you want.
Even though you'll be in a very rural areas, there are still three reliable places to stop and refuel along the route- at mile 24, Mile 49 and Mile 74.
Eunice recommends stopping at Hruska's Store and Bakery a long-running bakery & country store serving kolaches & European pastries, plus burgers & breakfast that will be at the halfway point (mile 49).
It can be very hot and dry out there so plan to bring plenty of water with you. A Camelbak is ideal since you'll want to have access to your water even when you're holding on tight to your handle bars though rough terrain.
Eunice, who lives in Houston, Texas, is also know as the "Gravel Loca"! She's know on Instagram for keeping things real when it comes to gravel riding.
She is also one of the organizers of Gravel Locos, a gravel event in Hico, TX on May 22nd, 2021.