OCT 18
2025
2025
Nevada City, California
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Heart of Gold Gravel features a course with an overwhelming % on dirt. Definitely gravel, not "groad". The event was created with the impetus of youth mental wellness, and the effort to bring people together for that cause in Nevada County. This October 18th, we ride from Nevada City's Pioneer Park over three course options ranging from 28 - 70 miles. Each route features ample climbing and lots and lots of amazing dirt. This region is one of California's hidden gems. For a good cause, and on a great course, there's no good reason to miss out on Heart of Gold Gravel.
Everything will be happening at Pioneer Park -
425 Nimrod Street in Nevada City
Complimentary coffee available, but no breakfast options on site.
11:00 am: Rider meal available at the participating food trucks
Food, Drinks, Live Music, Bike Wash & More!
Race timing will be in effect for the 2025 edition of Heart of Gold.
All race courses will be officially timed using event race timing systems. Please note that timing will exclude the portion of the course that runs through downtown Nevada City.
If you're looking for the ultimate gravel adventure, this is it. The long course is a full send through some of the best damn gravel riding anywhere in California. We're talking chunky climbs, ripping descents, hero dirt, and backcountry vibes for days. You’ll roll deep into the Tahoe National Forest and explore the hidden gems of Nevada County — old mining roads, ridge-line rollers, shady forest tunnels, and wide-open vistas that’ll stop you in your tracks (if your legs don’t first). It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s beautiful — the kind of ride that fills your soul and wrecks your quads in the best possible way. If you came to ride all the gravel, you’re in the right place.
All aid stations will have plenty of water, hydration mix, and basic nutrition items such as bananas, chips, cookies, peanut M&Ms, fig bars, etc.
Don’t let the word “medium” fool you — this route still brings the heat. It’s a perfectly dialed mix of challenge and fun, tailor-made for riders who want to push hard, soak up epic scenery, and still have something left in the tank at the end. Expect punchy climbs, fast descents, and plenty of that primo NorCal gravel that makes your tires sing. You’ll hit classic Tahoe National Forest terrain with sweeping views, dense forest roads, and just enough spice to keep you grinning (and maybe grimacing) all day long. This is the sweet spot — a ride that delivers big adventure without going full sufferfest. Pure gold, straight up.
Both aid stations will have plenty of water, hydraion mix, and basic nutrition items such as bananas, chips, cookies, peanut M&Ms, fig bars, ect.
New for this year, the short route brings fresh energy to the Heart of Gold lineup — and it’s a total blast. Just want to get out and send it without going full beast mode? This one’s your golden ticket. It’s a fast, fun, and super scenic loop that still packs in the adventure — smooth stretches, some spicy climbs, and just enough dirt to make it feel like the real deal (because it is). You’ll roll through beautiful forested terrain and quiet backroads that show off what makes Nevada County such a hidden gem for gravel riding. Whether you're testing the waters or just here for good vibes and fresh air, this route delivers all the feels with none of the fear. Saddle up and enjoy the ride!
All aid stations will have plenty of water, hydration mix, and basic nutrition items such as bananas, chips, cookies, peanut M&Ms, fig bars, etc.
heartofgoldgravel@gmail.com
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