Top Gravel Bike Routes Around the World for Adventure Seekers – Steven Rindner
Gravel biking has evolved from a niche interest into a global cycling phenomenon, attracting adventure-seekers who crave off-the-beaten-path experiences. From scenic coastal routes to high-altitude mountain passes, gravel riders are now exploring some of the most breathtaking and challenging terrains across continents. The appeal lies not only in the physical challenge but in the opportunity to discover hidden landscapes, untouched by heavy traffic or tourist crowds. According to outdoor enthusiasts like Steven Rindner, gravel biking is the ultimate way to combine travel, endurance, and exploration into one unforgettable journey.
If you’re looking to expand your gravel riding horizons, here are some of the top gravel bike routes around the world that should be on your bucket list.
The Dirty Kanza, now known as the Unbound Gravel race, in Kansas, USA, is one of the most iconic gravel rides globally. Though it’s technically a race, many recreational riders tackle the course for the thrill of navigating 200 miles of Flint Hills terrain. The endless gravel roads through prairies, with minimal elevation but plenty of wind and heat, make for a demanding yet stunning experience.
Heading north, British Columbia’s Kettle Valley Rail Trail in Canada offers a more leisurely, family-friendly gravel ride. Once a railway line, this 400+ kilometer route winds through tunnels, trestle bridges, and wine country. Its gentle grade and historical landmarks make it a great introduction to long-distance gravel riding.
In Europe, the Tuscany Trail in Italy offers a perfect mix of adventure and culture. This self-supported gravel bikepacking event spans about 500 kilometers through vineyards, medieval villages, and rolling countryside. Riders experience gravel, pavement, and dirt trails—all while enjoying some of the best scenery and food Italy has to offer.
For a truly high-altitude challenge, the Andean Gravel Challenge in Colombia pushes riders through remote mountain terrain, often at elevations above 10,000 feet. It’s a raw and wild ride with steep climbs, river crossings, and stunning views of the Andes. What it lacks in comfort, it more than makes up for in adventure and beauty.
On the other side of the globe, the Great Otway Gravel Grind in Australia is a popular event that showcases the rugged beauty of Victoria’s coastal rainforest. Riders weave through dense woods, along cliffsides, and through creek crossings, all within a professionally organized event that also welcomes recreational cyclists.
Gravel routes like these aren’t just about physical fitness—they’re about immersion. You’ll pass through communities that rarely see tourists, interact with locals, and often be the only rider for miles. Gravel biking encourages self-reliance and exploration, and many of these routes are best tackled over multiple days, with bikepacking gear and an open mind.
Whether you’re in it for the long haul or looking for a weekend escape, gravel biking around the world provides a fresh and thrilling perspective on travel. With a well-tuned bike and a sense of adventure, the road less traveled becomes a playground for the bold and the curious.
