EPIC CYCLING EVENTS

RIDE THIS WAY

Emporia is the epicenter of the gravel grinding world. Every year, thousands of cyclists endure the blistering sun, steep hills and rough trails of the Flint Hills. Whether you are here to race in the epic Dirty Kanza, or to experience the solitary beauty of the landscape for yourself, Emporia has the cycling adventure for you.

THE DIRTY KANZA

The first Saturday after Memorial Day, over 2,000 cyclists from across the globe descend on Emporia for the Dirty Kanza (dirtykanza.com). This grueling 200-mile bike race through the beautiful and rugged Flint Hills is one of the top endurance races in the world. Just finishing the Dirty Kanza has become a badge of honor for those in the endurance cycling world. The race winds through the very remote and unforgiving terrains of the Flint Hills. There is a reason it is on the bucket list of cyclists from around the world. Riders can also opt for the shorter DK100, the DK50, the DK25, the high school race or attempt the epic DKXL, a 350-mile race.

FINISH LINE CELEBRATION

Dirty Kanza Finish Line

Experience the excitement at the starting line of the Dirty Kanza and cheer on the riders with thousands of other cycling fans that are lining Commercial Street. Later in the afternoon, join the finish line celebration as the first riders complete their trek. All of downtown becomes a street party that goes late into the night as fans enjoy live music, street food, games, and ringing cowbells to cheer riders across the finish line.

OTHER GRAVEL EVENTS

LUNAR KANZA

JULY 18, 2020

Lunar Kanza

This 50-mile gravel leisure ride takes place under the full moon. Riders get to explore the Flint Hills at sunset and under moonlight. The ride finishes with a late night block party featuring live music and food trucks.

FREEDOMFEST

NOVEMBER 7, 2020

A number of rides and runs take place during this November event to support veterans, including the Spur Ride, a unique 5k run and gravel grinding ride that will challenge any athlete.

LA GRIND

MAY 2-3, 2020

La Grind Starting Line

La Grind is a two day gravel stage race through the Flint Hills. Ride on approximately 150 miles of iconic gravel roads with proceeds going to charity. You can also participate in the 35 mile fun ride or the 60-mile endurance challenge.

KANSAS CANNONBALL 550

SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2020

This ride is a 550 mile gravel bikepacking event that starts and ends in Emporia. This event is an unsupported bikepacking ride.

LAP THE LAKES

OCTOBER 10, 2020

Lap the Lake

Lap the Lakes Gravel Grinder, presented by Emporia Police Benefit Association, is a 130-mile gravel road race fundraiser for Emporia’s Camp Alexander that takes riders around three different local lakes. This fast rolling ride has a 65-mile course too.

RUSH THE RAILS

OCTOBER, 2020

Rush the Rails is a fondo ride and relay run along the Flint Hills Nature Trail. The full distance event begins in Osawatomie and ends in Council Grove. You can opt for the 1/2 distance or 1/4 distance, too.