Event Details
Buffalo River Gran Fondo – Back to Our Roots in 2025!
The Buffalo River Gran Fondo is the perfect cycling event for those seeking a mix of gravel and pavement, stunning scenic views, great camaraderie, and an outstanding post-ride celebration. Our fully supported ride features two route options: a 67.5-mile Full Monty and a 36.5-mile Lil’ Shorty—both packed with primo gravel and unforgettable terrain.
BACK FOR 2025: We’re stoked to announce that this year’s event returns to our original home at Camp Trapezium in Amherst, VA! There’s something special about rolling out of town, exploring beautiful stretches of the George Washington National Forest, and returning to Amherst after an epic day on the bike. This location delivers everything we love about this event: a mix of challenge and celebration, community and competition.
Key Features
Not Your Typical Race:
This isn’t about finish lines—it's about friendship, challenge, and riding hard if you feel like it. Push yourself or ride social—your day, your pace.
Route Markings:
Routes will be clearly marked with signage, but we strongly recommend uploading GPS files for added confidence and navigation.
Strava KOM/QOM Segment Challenge:
Compete for the coveted Buffalo Skull! Riders with the fastest combined time across four segments take the honors. To be eligible, you must join our event’s Strava club and appear in the results for each segment. We recommend double-recording on Strava to ensure visibility. (If that’s your thing.)
Weekend Festivities
Friday Check-In @ Camp Trapezium:
Start your weekend off right with check-in, live music, food trucks (available for purchase), and good times with fellow riders.
Saturday Ride Day:
8:00 AM – Light breakfast, coffee & rider briefing
9:30 AM – Full Monty & Lil’ Shorty roll-out
Supported Rest Stops:
Three well-stocked rest stops will keep you fueled and hydrated along the route.
SAG Support:
Need a hand? A SAG vehicle will be on course to assist as needed.
Post-Ride Celebration:
Celebrate your ride with a delicious post-race meal, a beer on us, and some sweet commemorative swag. Kick back and enjoy the scene at Camp Trapezium!
Camping & Lodging
Camping at Camp Trapezium:
Primitive camping is available Friday night at Camp Trapezium. We’ll have space for tents and vehicles, plus access to a portable shower and restroom facilities. It’s a great way to hang out, meet fellow riders, and soak up the vibe.
Local Lodging Options:
For those looking for more comfort, there are great accommodations nearby:
Elston Inn at Sweet Briar College (Amherst, VA): A charming and convenient conference-style inn located just minutes from the venue. Ideal for riders and families.
Lodging in Lynchburg, VA: Just 25 minutes away, Lynchburg offers a wide range of hotels, B&Bs, and inns. Great for making a weekend out of your Fondo experience.
Whether you’re chasing segments or making memories, the 2025 Buffalo River Gran Fondo offers the perfect blend of adventure, challenge, and community. We can’t wait to ride with you.
Check out this video from the 2021 Buffalo River Gran Fondo (Courtesy Alan Cross)
The Route
Full Monty
68 Miles | ~7,000' Elevation Gain
Get ready for a gritty 68-mile adventure through some of the best gravel Central Virginia has to offer. With a well-balanced mix of 65% gravel and 35% pavement, this route is a true test of legs and spirit—highlighted by the legendary Alhambra Road climb and the winding beauty of the George Washington National Forest.
This course isn't made for your featherweight road machine—we recommend 32c tires or wider for ideal comfort and control across the mixed terrain.
You'll find three fully staffed rest stops along the way to refuel, rehydrate, and recharge. The course is well-marked, and SAG support will be available throughout the day for any mechanical issues. Please remember: roads are open to traffic, and all riders must obey Virginia traffic laws.
Though it’s not a traditional race, a little friendly competition never hurts. Riders looking to test their mettle can compete for the Buffalo Skull—awarded to the top male and female riders with the lowest combined time across four Strava KOM/QOM segments. To be eligible, just join our free Strava club and make sure you’re recorded on each segment. Let the gravel fly!
Strava File - 67.5-mile course map
Ride With GPS File - 67.5-mile course map
Garmin Connect - 67.5-mile course map
KOM/QOM Segment #1 KOM/QOM Segment #2 KOM/QOM Segment#3 KOM/QOM Segment #4
Lil’ Shorty
32.2 Miles | ~2,600' Elevation Gain
The Lil’ Shorty is perfect for our road bike friends and the gravel-curious looking to explore some mixed-surface adventure. This 32.2-mile route features a comfortable blend of 80% pavement and 20% gravel, making it a great intro to gravel without leaving the road too far behind.
While 32c tires or wider are recommended for the best experience, seasoned and adventurous riders may find the route manageable on 28c tires, especially given the smoother nature of the gravel segments. Just be ready for a little bounce!
You’ll find two fully staffed rest stops, clearly marked signage, and SAG support in case of any mechanical issues. The course is open to traffic, and all riders must obey Virginia traffic laws.
Though it’s not a race, those with a competitive spark can test themselves on two Strava KOM/QOM segments. Riders must join our free Strava club to be eligible for segment awards—make sure you’re recorded on both segments to qualify.
Ride With GPS - 32.2 mile course
Your Stay
The journey commences and concludes at Buffalo Lake. We recommend all participants to make use of the free camping offered on both Friday and Saturday nights. On Friday, enjoy live music, dinner choices (available for purchase), and participate in entertaining lawn games. Take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in the scenic surroundings and create lasting memories under the starry skies of Buffalo Lake.
Camping
The excursion kicks off and concludes at Buffalo Lake, where a limited number of complimentary tenting spots will be provided on both Friday and Saturday nights. To secure your spot, make sure to RSVP during the ride registration process.
Lodging
Recognizing that camping may not suit everyone, alternative lodging options are readily available. The Camp Trapezium Farmhouse Airbnb offers a limited number of rooms, providing a comfortable and unique accommodation experience. Additionally, the The Florence Elston Inn, located on the Sweet Briar College campus, has rooms available for those seeking a cozy stay.
For more traditional lodging choices, the town of Amherst, VA, boasts several options to suit various preferences. If you prefer a wider selection, Lynchburg, VA, offers even more lodging alternatives to cater to your needs.
Sponsors
“You Got This!” These three words fuel our company. Ever since we started handwriting names on our bags, we’ve built our company around making a personal connection with you, our customers. Think of us as your support crew cheering you on as you blow past your goals. You inspire us!
Bikes Unlimited
Lynchburg, VA's privately owned and operated Premier bicycle Shop. Dedicated to providing the area with top-quality cycling products, personalized service, and rental needs since 1967.