The Muddy Keppel Gravel Ride

This will be the official OSCC end-of-gravel-season ride! The Farmer’s Almanac calls for wind, rain, mud, large puddles and potholes in mid October in Grey county.  Embrace our Fall weather and wrap up the gravel season with this challenging ride.

The start and finish is from Mudtown Station Brewery and Restaurant, 1198 1st Ave East, Owen Sound.  When signing up for the ride, please note in the ‘group’ column if you will (Y) or will not (N) be staying for a bite to eat after the ride.

There will be NO organized groups. All riders MUST download the route on a device OR carry a paper map of the route (these will be provided) AND ride with a cell phone.

There will be NO marshals, direction markers or aid stations.  Riders at the front may push the pace as they wish to add to the challenge but please obey all road signs.  All roads remain open to vehicles and pedestrians.

The ride is open to all riders with valid memberships to an Ontario Cycling Association club.  There is no fee to attend this ride.

This 78 km (419 m climbing) counterclockwise tour of Sarawak and Keppel townships includes a steep and walk-only descent at the north end of the Gordon Sutherland parkway down to East Linton SR.  The climb to Skinner’s Bluff on the Colpoy’s Range Road is also quite sketchy and will probably require it to be hiked rather than ridden. Kudos to you if you can safely climb this section! Other challenging, but ridable, segments are the middle section of the Sarawak Keppel Townline, Colpoy’s Range Road and SR 15.  Prepare for variable surfaces, potholes, loose gravel, large stones and large puddles in these segments.

The only award (TBD) will be given to the rider with the Muddiest Selfie.  For this reason, wearing an all white kit may be to your advantage :).

I am hoping this will become a yearly end of gravel season event.  Hope you can make it!

Brian O’Doherty

Sign up here