The Granite Grinder is 50 miles of pure Wisconsin gravel and the route that riders keep coming back for. Starting in Athens and finishing at Miltrim Farms just outside of town, it rolls through the red-granite roads and quiet country highways of Marathon County, serving up a perfect mix of rough gravel, pavement, rolling hills, and classic scenery. Get excited for old barns, meandering rivers, herds of work horses, protected wetlands, and a surprising density of brick farmhouses. It’s long enough to be a real challenge, but short enough to leave you with a little energy for the jam packed finish-line celebration. No wonder it’s the most popular ride in the lineup.
RACE START
8:30 AM — Athens Community Center — 221 Caroline St, Athens WI 54411
RACE FINISH
50 Miles — Miltrim Farms Fall Festival — 115315 Township Rd, Athens WI 54411
RIDER SUPPORT
Mile 27.5 — Cattail Organics
- snacks, water, sports hydration, porta potty
A local organic farm powerhouse producing food for many area restaurants and locals tucked down on Baldwin Creek road. Sign up for a tour!
Mile 39.5 — Merge point with Red Gold Rush 100 and Bedrock Bruiser 150
- snacks, water, sports hydration, porta potty
Riders, come refuel and take a moment before you ackle the next leg of your ride! Spectators and Birders, we're across the road from the Berg Forest wetland, a Marathon County wilderness space, where many birds thrive, also a favorite with waterfowl hunters (bring your binos!).
Final stretch after rolling from here!
Important Notes:
- START LOCATION DIFFERENT FROM FINISH
- PLEASE PARK AT FINISH AND ROLL 2½ MILES TO THE START
Limited parking at start. No race-provided transportation.