Event Details
Buffalo River Gravel Fondo
The Buffalo River GRAVEL 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. Held during peak fall foliage season in Central Virginia, the ride delivers vibrant colors, crisp autumn air, and unforgettable scenery at every turn.
Our fully supported ride now features three epic route options, all packed with primo gravel, unforgettable scenery, and fabulous volunteers to get you to the finish:
The Big Buffalo – 108 miles / 13,000’ of gain
The Full Monty – 68 miles / 7,000’ of gain
Lil’ Shorty – 32.2 miles / 2,600’ of gain
We believe there is something unique about leaving the small town of Amherst, VA, exploring the rugged beauty of the George Washington National Forest, and concluding the day at a venue that combines challenge, celebration, community, and competition perfectly.
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. Whether you're chasing segments or just soaking up the views, this ride is all about your day, your pace.
Route Markings
All routes will be clearly marked with signage, but we strongly recommend uploading GPS files to your bike computer or phone for added confidence and smoother navigation—especially on the remote backroads.
Strava KOM/QOM Segment Challenge
Compete for the coveted Buffalo Skull! Riders with the fastest combined time across four timed segments will take home top honors. To be eligible, you’ll need to:
Join our event’s Strava club
Ride and complete either the Full Monty or the BIG Buffalo route.
The Lil’ Shorty Route will have its own prize for the two combined segments.
We also recommend double-recording your ride on Strava to ensure your times show up accurately. (If that’s your thing.)
Weekend Festivities
Friday Check-In at Loose Shoe Brewery
Start your weekend off right with rider check-in, Pizza and Beer (available for purchase), and good times with fellow riders.
Saturday Ride Day
7:15 AM – Big Buffalo Rider Briefing
7:30 AM – Big Buffalo Roll-Out
9:15 AM – Full Monty & Lil’ Shorty 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 across the routes. Big Buffalo riders: plan for extended gaps and carry what you need between aid stations.
SAG Support
Need a hand? A SAG vehicle will be on course to assist with mechanicals or pickups if needed.
Post-Ride Celebration
If you select the All-In Option, your entry includes a hearty post-ride meal, a beer on us, and some commemorative swag. Kick back, swap stories, and enjoy the festive vibes.
If you're going No-Frills, you can add on a meal, beer, and camping during registration checkout. Please note: there will be a very limited quantity of food and drink available for purchase on-site post-ride, so if you plan to eat, drink, or stay overnight, be sure to select those options when you register.
Camping & Lodging
Camping
Primitive camping will be available on Friday night. We have ample space for tents and vehicles, along with portable restroom facilities for your convenience. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow riders and fully enjoy the atmosphere. Stay tuned for more details, which we’ll share shortly!
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 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 Routes
The BIG Buffalo
Only a handful have attempted, and even fewer have seen it through to the end.
“I am not doing that again - it was too hard”
108 Miles | 12,927’ Elevation Gain
For those who looked at the Full Monty and thought “what if it was longer, steeper, and more brutal?” — we’ve got something special just for you. Meet the Big Buffalo, a 108-mile backcountry sufferfest with over 13,000 feet of climbing and 75% on gravel. This one’s not for the faint of heart.
Rolling out at 7:00 AM, the Big Buffalo includes all four timed segments that count toward the coveted Buffalo Skull trophies, just like the Full Monty route— but you’ll get 40 more miles of soul-crushing, grin-inducing gravel in between. This is Type 2 fun at its finest.
But wait, there's more…
The Elk Pond Challenge
At the top of the infamous Alhambra Climb, instead of catching your breath and moving on, the Big Buffalo route keeps climbing — another 1.5 miles to the summit of Elk Pond Mountain. Your time on the Alhambra segment will still count toward the Buffalo Skull standings, but only Big Buffalo riders who push to the very top of Elk Pond will be eligible for a cash prize. Because pain deserves a little reward, right?
This Route Is Not for Everyone
Let’s be real — there’s no good reason to choose this route unless you love to suffer, are built for endurance, or have something to prove to yourself (or the gravel gods). This is a self-supported route beyond the standard aid stations. Be prepared, be experienced, and come ready to take care of yourself. The roads are remote, the climbs are relentless, and the sense of accomplishment is enormous.
Time Cutoff – 11 Hours
The Big Buffalo route comes with an 11-hour time limit. If you’re not confident you can complete the full 108 miles and 13,000 feet of climbing within that window, this route likely isn’t the right fit. It’s a massive day in the saddle—and we want all riders to finish safely and before dark.
Choose wisely. Ride prepared. Suffer gloriously.
GPS Downloadable Routes
Ride with GPS: The BIG Buffalo
Segments
Buffalo River GF- Fast and Fancy (Segment #1)
Buffalo River GF- Alhambra Leg Thrasher (Segment #2)
Buffalo River GF- Reservoir Rollers (Segment #3)
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 designed for your featherweight road machine—we recommend minimum 35c tires or wider for optimal comfort and control across mixed terrain.
There are three fully staffed rest stops along the route where you can refuel, rehydrate, and recharge. The course is clearly marked, and SAG support will be available throughout the day to assist with any mechanical issues. Please remember that the roads are open to traffic, and all riders must adhere to Virginia traffic laws.
While this event isn’t a traditional race, a little friendly competition can be fun. Riders who want to test their skills 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, simply join our free Strava club and ensure your times are recorded for each segment. Let the gravel fly!
GPS Downloadable Routes
Ride With GPS File - Full Monty
Segments
Buffalo River GF- Fast and Fancy (Segment #1)
Buffalo River GF- Alhambra Leg Thrasher (Segment #2)
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.
GPS Downloadable Routes
Segments
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 Second Stage, 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.