Event Overview

Location: Lake Sweetwater Municipal Campground, County Road 264, Sweetwater, TX 79556
Registration: Categories include Gravel Open, XCMTB, and Juniors.
Distances: 100 miles (premier race), 70 miles, 50 miles, 30 miles, and 15 miles.
Perks: Entry includes an event t-shirt, OrangeSeal sealant, meal tickets (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and a drawing for one of 200 Western hats.
Prizes: A $10,000 total prize purse for the 100-mile race ($2,500 for 1st place M/F), plus custom belt buckles for age group winners.

Course Description

The course is characterized by its rolling hills and rugged valleys, with approximately 85% of the route consisting of unpaved surfaces including gravel and two-track ranch roads.

Sector	Description	Key Notes
Start/Finish	Lake Sweetwater Hub	Mass start beginning at 8:30 AM (100m) and 9:00 AM (all other distances).
Initial Miles	Paved / Hardpack	Often starts on paved road to allow the field to settle before hitting technical gravel.
Ranch Sectors	Private Two-Track	Exclusive access to local ranches; featuring rugged, scenic, and "gnarly" sections.
Rolling Valleys	Mixed Gravel	Relentless "up and down" hills across Nolan and Taylor Counties.
Support Zones	Aid Stations	Highly supported; stations every 8–10 miles staffed by local VFDs.
The Cutoff	Mile 76 (100m) / Mile 48 (70m)	Strict 2:30 PM cutoff; riders failing to reach this must take an alternate 17-mile return route.
The Finish	Lake Sweetwater	Final push back to the campground for the hamburger/hotdog lunch and live music.

A Recap of the Rattlesnake Gravel Grind

Rattlesnake Gravel Grind Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the course options and distances?

The event offers five fully supported gravel routes traversing scenic ranch roads, rolling hills, and rugged valleys:

100-Mile Race: The premier endurance challenge with a strict 2:30 PM time cut-off at mile 76.
70-Mile Open & XCMTB: A long-distance option for both gravel and cross-country mountain bikes.
50-Mile Open & XCMTB: A mid-distance competitive challenge.
30-Mile & 15-Mile: Shorter routes available for open categories and Juniors (ages 8–18).

2. What can winners expect for awards and prizes?

The event features a deep prize purse and unique custom trophies:

Cash Prizes: The 100-mile race typically features a $10,000 total prize purse, with $2,500 for 1st place (Male/Female).
Custom Buckles: Age group podium prizes across all distances include custom-designed belt buckles.
Podium Awards: Winners in various categories receive custom metal art prizes and gear from sponsors like Moosepacks.

3. What food is provided at the event?

Your registration includes multiple meals and on-course support:

Included Meals: Participants receive tickets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Post-Race Party: A celebratory hamburger and hotdog lunch is served in the park alongside live Texas country music.
Aid Stations: There are approximately 10 rest stops (every 8–10 miles) stocked with hydration and fuel, supported by local Volunteer Fire Departments.

4. Where can I eat in the Sweetwater area?

Beyond the event-provided meals, Sweetwater and the surrounding region offer classic Texas fare:

Lake Sweetwater General Store

RV park

Sweetwater, TX

Conveniently located near the start/finish line for quick snacks and supplies.

Buck's Steaks & Bar-B-Que

$10–20Steak

ClosedSweetwater, TX

A local favorite in Sweetwater for hearty portions of brisket and steaks.

Heff's Burgers

$10–20Hamburger

Sweetwater, TX

Known for its award-winning burgers and casual atmosphere in the heart of town.