u/doebedoe

My favorite event each spring on Ted Turners ranch on northern NM. 40/66/99mi options of mostly double track and gravel with just 1/4mi of pavement. An entirely closed course, big views, fun variety of terrain (except the brutally long Caliente climb). It all ends in a 9mi slight downhill on smooth double-track with the prevailing wind--perfection. Road 48s this year, but certainly a course where I see the merits of suspension on a gravel bike. Plenty of folks out on fast XC bikes too.

Big enough to have nice aid stations and organization, small enough to feel cozy and community driven. The three options, including allowing e-bikes on the short course -- bring out everyone from the super fit racing for checks in the 99mi, to folks who are about exploring on e-bikes more than pushing w/kg. There's also a half marathon race.

Topping it off with two nights of onsite camping means plenty of post race beer and relaxation. A huge thumbs up to the organizers for making this happen every year.