A West Texas Gravel Grind, XCMTB, & Trail Run
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026 (Part of the March 18–22, 2026, multi-day event)
Location (Start/Finish): Lake Sweetwater Municipal Campground, County Road 264, Sweetwater, Texas 79556
Event Information
Join us in Sweetwater, Texas, for the Rattlesnake Gravel Grind, a premier West Texas gravel race, XCMTB (Cross-Country Mountain Bike) event, and Trail Run, all culminating in an epic post-race party! The Rattlesnake Gravel Grind is renowned for providing more support than any other gravel race in Texas, ensuring a safe and memorable experience across the region’s vast landscapes.
The event isn’t just a test of endurance; it’s a community-driven fundraiser. Proceeds benefit the five Volunteer Fire Departments of Nolan County, with the 2025 event providing a generous $70,000 to these vital community services.
Course Distances & Racing
Riders can choose from five fully supported gravel routes traversing two-track ranch trails, rolling hills, and rugged valleys. Due to private land crossings, all routes are exclusively available to registered participants during the event window.
| Distance | Start Time (Approx.) | Race Category | Prize Purse |
| 100 Miles | 8:30 AM | Gravel Race | $1,000 1st Place M/F |
| 70 Miles | 9:00 AM | Gravel Open & XCMTB Open | Podium Prizes 1st-5th M/F |
| 50 Miles | 9:00 AM | Gravel Open & XCMTB Open | Podium Prizes 1st-3rd M/F |
| 30 Miles | 9:00 AM | Gravel Open & XCMTB Juniors 12-18 | Podium Prizes 1st-3rd M/F |
| 15 Miles | 9:15 AM | Gravel Open & XCMTB Juniors 12-18 | Podium Prizes 1st-3rd M/F |
The 100-mile race has a time cut-off point at mile 76 (2:30 PM) to ensure rider safety.
Rider Support & Amenities
The Rattlesnake Gravel Grind is dedicated to providing superior support:
- Rest Stops/Aid Stations: Located approximately every 8–10 miles along all four main routes, starting at mile 15. All stops are equipped with portable toilets, hydration, and ride fuel.
- SAG Vehicles: Full lead vehicle and SAG vehicle support are provided throughout the routes.
- Volunteer Fire Departments: Rest stops, aid stations, and mobile support are staffed by the five Volunteer Fire Departments of Nolan County.
- Post-Race Party: Grab your boots and a lawn chair for a lively celebration in the park with fantastic live music, free food (Hamburger and Hotdog lunch), and drinks.
- Swag: Each registered participant receives a Rattlesnake Gravel Grind T-shirt, a 4oz bottle of OrangeSeal sealant, a Chamois Butt’r packet, and tickets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Registration and Lodging
- Registration Link: https://rattlesnakegravelgrind.bike/
- Packet Pickup: Friday, March 20, 2026, from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Lake Sweetwater Municipal Campground.
- Lodging: Check the event website for discounted room rates with hotel partners when you mention RATTLESNAKE. https://rattlesnakegravelgrind.bike/lodging
Website and Social Media
Follow the event on social media for updates, schedule changes, and route information (which is emailed to registered participants on Monday, March 16, 2026).
- Website: https://rattlesnakegravelgrind.bike/
- Instagram & Facebook: Follow Rattlesnake Gravel Grind for all the latest news!
Contact Information
For all event inquiries, please contact the organizers directly:
- Email: [email protected]
