The Rad Dirt Fest 2025 is a newer event by the Life Time Events team, who are part of the Leadville Race Series owners and Unbound Gravel (formerly Dirty Kanza). This event takes place annually on the last weekend of September in the undeniably special Trinidad, Colorado.
Nestled in the heart of Southern Colorado, Trinidad offers a breathtaking backdrop of towering Spanish Peaks and expansive mesas. This fall, The Rad Dirt Fest promises to take gravel cycling enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey through this untouched U.S. cycling gem. With three revamped course distances, each more thrilling than the next, cyclists from all over the country are set to converge in Trinidad’s newest outdoor riding destination for an eclectic off-road adventure.
There are three unique routes to choose from at The Rad Dirt Fest 2025: The Frijole at 40ish miles, The Anteloop at 65ish miles, and the Stubborn Delores at 100+ miles. The routes offer breathtaking terrain and scenery in this southern Colorado region bordering the San Isabel National Forest and Spanish Peaks Wilderness Area.
The Stubborn Delores course is a true test for cyclists, spanning a distance of 113 miles with an elevation gain of 10,613 feet. The event kicks off at 9 am, and as participants pedal through this route, they are greeted with buttery smooth gravel, a mesmerizing high alpine setting, and a 2-mile stretch of technical gravel that lies on the South Shore Trail within the Trinidad Lake State Park. Adding to the challenge, the course reaches its pinnacle at 8,921 feet, making for some adrenaline-pumping climbs. Aid stations are strategically placed at mileages 5.7, 22.4, 42.8, 70.8, 89.5, and 106 for those needing a quick breather. Time-conscious cyclists should note the course cutoffs, with the Spanish Peaks Inn checkpoint at mile 42.8 set for 1:20 pm and the Trinidad Lake State Park cutoff at mile 106 expected by 7:40 pm. For additional support, crew locations are available at Mile 5.7 & 106 within Trinidad Lake State Park and at Mile 42.8 near the Spanish Peaks Inn.
Taking the excitement a notch down but no less thrilling is the Anteloop route going off at 9:30 am. This course covers a distance of 68.2 miles and boasts an elevation gain of 6,558 feet. The journey offers a diverse terrain comprising desert landscapes, vistas of snowcapped mountains, gentle inclines, and sections of what can only be described as champagne gravel. The route also includes the signature 2-mile technical gravel stretch on the South Shore Trail. For refueling, aid stations are available at mileages 5.7, 22.4, 33.7, 44.2, and 61.6. Cyclists aiming to complete this course should reach the 4 Corners Aid station by 1:00 pm at mile 33.7 and the Trinidad Lake State Park by 3:45 pm at mile 61.6.
Lastly, for those new to the sport or simply wanting a more relaxed day on the saddle, the Frijole route is a dream come true. Stretching over a distance of 47.2 miles with an elevation gain of 4,632 feet, this course promises smooth gravel paths, breathtaking scenic views, and manageable climbs. The route is also graced by the 2-mile technical gravel section on the South Shore Trail. Aid stations for this route can be found at mileages 5.7, 22.4, and 40, ensuring cyclists remain hydrated and energized throughout their journey.
After their ride, stick around for the Award Ceremonies. Both the Stubborn Delores and Anteloop have awards three deep in each of their 20 categories while Frijole awards are three deep for 4 categories.
At The Rad Dirt Fest, be prepared for afternoon temperatures in the 80s, with early mornings and evenings cooling down to the lower 50s. Given the unpredictable high desert climate, it’s advisable to carry a rain jacket.
