Lake Sonoma MTB: Grasshopper Adventure Series

Event organizer

Grasshopper Adventure Series

Are you ready to embark on your next cycling adventure? The Grasshopper Adventure Series (AKA “Hoppers”) invites you to experience the thrill of exploration, camaraderie, and raw beauty of Northern California's hidden landscapes. Dive into the world of unconventional, grassroots bike racing, where adventure knows no bounds. Hoppers are held monthly, starting in January through late May each year and they have long attracted top pros seeking early season training. While drawing an experienced and competitive field, the events also welcome riders who are new to gravel touring and have become “must do'' events for Northern Californians gravelistas seeking fun and challenging adventures. A Unique Cycling Experience Hoppers are the longest running gravel/mixed terrain adventure series, making the series a true pioneer in the field. Founded in 1998 by Miguel Crawford (2023 Gravel Hall of Fame Inductee), the events called for a variety of bike types which helped spark interest in “gravel riding” and inspired the creation of a new genre of bikes. Unlike your typical cycling event, Hoppers are a celebration of the spirit of adventure and pursuit of the unknown. From elite athletes to those newer to gravel riding, everyone is welcome to test their mettle in these one-of-a-kind adventures. Hoppers encourage self-reliance. It’s important to be self-sufficient; able to navigate using the downloadable GPS routes, capable of fixing a flat, and willing to push yourself. This isn't your average race; it's an adventure that pushes your boundaries and inspires independence. As Ted King asked and answered, “What is the Grasshopper Adventure Series? It's everything that's right about bike riding as we know it! It's fun, it's camaraderie, it's mass start, it's gravel, and it's badass.” The Grasshopper Adventure Series Offers: Scenic Diversity: Participants traverse a variety of terrains; winding backroads, gravel paths, and dirt tracks. Discover breathtaking vistas, serene forests, and remote routes that you won't find on a conventional race course. Unparalleled Support: From roaming course marshalls to provide assistance if needed, pre-ride videos to educate you on the course, well-stocked rest stops providing Skratch hydration and assorted snacks (be sure to stop for the hot grilled cheese), and a post-ride party with food and drinks, the Hoppers are a full immersion experience! Inclusive Community: Join a passionate community of riders that shares your love for cycling and exploration. Hoppers are as much about forging new friendships as they are about pedaling through uncharted territory. All levels of riders, from those new to gravel to World Cup pros, are welcome and neither USA Cycling nor UCI licenses are required; everyone is able to register! Podiums for male, female and non-binary categories are offered and all participants are celebrated. Financial Support to Non-Profits: A portion of each registration is donated to a variety of nonprofits working to improve lives and the communities where Hoppers are held. Organizations receiving financial support from the 2024 Hoppers include the NorCal Interscholastic Cycling League, Redwood Trails Alliance, Adventure Therapy Foundation, Be Good Foundation, Redwood Forest Foundation and various high school mountain bike teams who will be helping with event rest stops. Join the Adventure Today! Whether you're a cycling enthusiast seeking a new challenge or an adventurer at heart looking to connect with like-minded individuals, Hoppers promise an unforgettable experience. Register for a 2024 Hopper event and embark on the journey of a lifetime! Explore NorCal secret routes, test your limits, and connect with the adventure-loving community that makes Hoppers truly special. It's not just a race: it's an experience you'll treasure forever! All the details and registration info: https://grasshopperadventureseries.com/ Follow the action: @grasshopperadventureseries