Gravel is for everyone. Hear us out:

Gravel and dirt roads are pretty common in and around communities in the west. In Pueblo, there are fantastic gravel roads right at the edge of town. But why promote riding those over trails? Or over paths? Or other options? Here’s why we think gravel is the opportunity to get more people on bikes, and on longer bike rides:

• You can use nearly any type of reliable bike. Riders can use any reliable bike to ride gravel and have fun doing it. You don’t need anything fancy. Mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, road bikes (depending on the gravel condition) will all work. Doesn’t matter how new or old your bike is or how many gears it’s got. You can make it work and enjoy it.

• You have quick access to a personal nature experience. A bike can take you pretty far in a relatively short amount of time. Gravel roads are nearly always in more remote areas, so you’re far more likely to hear the birds, see wildlife, and notice the wildflowers along the way than if you were in town.

• It makes sense to start right from the front door. When you’re planning a gravel ride, you’re already relying on public roads. Getting to the gravel/dirt is just part of the experience. Don’t have a bike rack or a car? All good. Pack some extra supplies and start right from home.

• Gravel requires less technical riding skill to get started. Trails can vary hugely in technical difficulty. Gravel varies, and some roads can be impressively rough. For the most part, though, gravel doesn’t require a advanced technical skillset. Every activity does carry a risk, though. Plus, if comparing gravel roads to trails, you sure have a lot more space to meander on gravel than a trail.

• People can likely get to your location in a vehicle. Trails can be very challenging to navigate if you have an injury or mechanical issue, and can be slow for responders to reach your location in an emergency scenario. Gravel roads make that variable much simpler. If there’s something you can’t handle on your bike or if there’s an emergency, you’re already on a functional road.

• You can go FAR. Gravel has an incredible potential for personal growth. Riders can learn independence and build confidence as well as fitness. Starting out from the front door and slowly expanding your range opens up the world. Plus, as you learn to repair your own equipment and what to bring with you for food and water, you’ll trust yourself more.

Try it out. We hope to share some how-to content and more in the future.