Buffalo River Gravel Gran Fondo

Buffalo River Gran Fondo – October 3, 2026

Start/Finish:

Second Stage, Amherst, VA

The Buffalo River Gran Fondo returns in 2026 to Second Stage in the heart of Amherst, VA. After a beautiful ride through some of the finest gravel in the George Washington National Forest, you’ll roll back into town for food, music, and community—just like we started. We’re stoked to celebrate where it all began.

Ride Options

• The BIG Buffalo: 108 miles | 13k' elevation gain | 65% gravel, 35% pavement
• Designed for the not-so-smart who enjoy suffering more than most. GPS Route: Strava
• The Full Monty: 68 miles | ~7,000' elevation gain | ~65% gravel, 35% pavement
• Take on the classic Alhambra Road climb and four Strava KOM/QOM segments. Recommended for gravel bikes or endurance road bikes with 32c tires or wider. GPS Routes: Strava, RidewithGPS, Garmin
• Lil’ Shorty: 32.2 miles | ~2,600' elevation gain | ~20% gravel, 80% pavement
• Designed for our road bike friends and the gravel-curious. 32c tires are ideal: experienced riders may be fine on 28c. Features two Strava segments. GPS Routes: Strava, RidewithGPS, Garmin

Strava Segment Challenge

Compete for the coveted Buffalo Skull by logging the lowest combined time across your route’s Strava segments.

Join our Strava club and make sure you record your ride to be eligible. More info here: mmgendurancesports.com/buffalo-river-gran-fondo

Weekend Schedule

Friday, October 2

• Afternoon check-in at Loose Shoe Brewery
• Beer and pizza (available for purchase)
• Complimentary camping for riders and families at the Amherst County Admin Building

Saturday, October 3

• 8:00 AM: Coffee, light breakfast, and rider briefing
• 9:30 AM: Both routes depart
• Post-ride meal, beer ticket, and commemorative swag
• Extra food and drinks are available for friends and family

Camping & Lodging

• On-site Camping: Primitive camping is available at Camp Trapezium, with access to a portable shower
• Lodging Nearby:
  • Sweet Briar College's Elston Inn (Amherst, VA)
  • Hotels and inns in Lynchburg, VA

Support & Amenities

• Well-marked courses with downloadable GPS files
• Three rest stops on the Full Monty: two on Lil’ Shorty
• SAG vehicle and on-course support
• Great post-ride atmosphere with food, drink, and good people

Location

Second Stage
194 Second Street, Amherst, VA 24521

More info: http://www.BikeReg.com/buffalo-river-gran-fondo