#muddy onion spring Classic gravel grinder

[bristolcountycyclist]

The Muddy Onion Spring Classic Gravel Grinder never disappoints. Located in scenic Montpelier VT it draws riders from all over the Norteast. I’ve done this a few times and mercifully never experienced any mud. In fact it’s always been done dry and unseasonably warm every time.

This year it started at the base of a long steep sustained paved climb out of town. The paved climb turned into an equally difficult dirt climb. About half of the 750 entrants were on the side of the road stripping off layers of clothing during that approximately 4 miles of opening ascent.

Next it was a long middle section of Class IV MMR or minimally maintained dirt roads. Off in the distance you could see some man made snow on some of the prominent ski resorts. Except for an aid station and the local Adamant Co-op store you were on your own but it was well marked and there courses had gps routes. There were three routes of approximately 20, 40, and 60 miles. The climbing makes them feel like they are much much longer.

The last few miles had some relatively steep descents on dirt and then pavement before returning to the main sponsor Onion River Outdoors. Registration included gourmet catered food from local restaurants, craft beer or soft drinks, and a live band. It’s in the shopping and dining district with plenty of quaint local businesses. Highly recommend to anyone in the area.

A week later is the Waterbury Gravel Grinder about 15 miles up the highway. Waterbury is home to the Ben and Jerry’s factory tour /Flavor Graveyard and Cabot Cheese and Green Mountain Coffee Roasters. It’s similar to the Muddy Onion and usually sells out in advance. I’ve done this one a few times and experienced bitter cold, freezing rain, and even some light snow. The aid station is known for chocolate covered bacon and local hard liquor. I recommend this one as well.