Grateful Gravel returns for its third spin around the sun, bringing dirt, music and Deadhead magic back to Mt. Ellen on Saturday, August 2. Hosted by our friends at the Mad River Riders, this iconic day blends two-wheeled adventure with all-out musical celebration. Whether you’re chasing climbs or just chasing that feeling, this one’s for you.
The Rides
Whether you’re a gravel grinder, Sunday spinner, or glutton for vertical punishment, we’ve got a route with your name on it. All rides start and finish at Mt. Ellen and include aid stations, concert entry, a post-ride meal and a celebratory beverage.
Peggy Slow
21 miles | 2,500 ft of climbing
Take it easy and enjoy the scenery—this one’s a mellow ramble with just enough bite to feel earned.
New Speedway
32 miles | 4,000 ft or 44 miles | 6,700 ft
Two options, one stoke. Choose your path and ride your own ride.
Fire on the Mountain
64 miles | 8,400 ft of climbing
This route brings the heat. Big climbs, bigger views, and a soundtrack of your own heavy breathing. Face-stealer status.
Ride Registration: $110
Includes the ride, aid stations, concert, post-ride meal, and one adult beverage.
The Music Never Stopped
This year, the music starts even earlier. We’re kicking things off with a free Friday night show featuring Sabouyouma from 5:30–8:30 PM on the Mt Ellen Big Deck. Hailing from Burlington by way of Guinea, Sabouyouma delivers high-energy West African rhythms guaranteed to get you moving. Balafon-led and beat-forward, it’s the perfect prelude to a weekend full of groove.
Then on Saturday, the main stage heats up:
2:30 PM | Dark Star Project opens the portal with faithful tributes and deep improvisations.
5:00 PM | Shred is Dead plugs in and blows the lid off. Led by guitar phenom Marcus Rezak, this high-octane group reinvents classic Dead jams with a modern, jam-prog twist.
Who’s Who on the Stage:
Shred is Dead
A rotating supergroup of touring pros and Dead-loving shred lords, this ensemble led by Marcus Rezak leans into the psychedelic side of the Dead with explosive solos, jazz-fusion flair, and a fearless improvisational spirit.
Dark Star Project
Rooted in tradition and lifted by spontaneity, this East Coast tribute act channels the energy of early Dead. Known for weaving setlists around audience requests and cosmic flow, they’re crowd favorites with heart and soul.
Sabouyouma
A seven-piece polyrhythmic powerhouse led by master balafonist Ousmane Camara, Sabouyouma blends tradition and innovation with every beat. Their sets are joyful, unrelenting, and irresistible.
Stay a Little Longer
Camping at Mt. Ellen
Camping’s back at Mt. Ellen for Grateful Gravel weekend! For just $100, claim your spot under the stars Friday and Saturday night (8/1–8/3). Check-in starts at 12 PM Friday, with 20×20 spaces for tents, small campers, or Class B vans. Porta-potties and drinking water available; no campfires, and please keep food locked up (Vermont bears don’t vibe with late-night snacks). Permits handed out at 6 PM Friday. Be chill, be kind, and enjoy the ride.
Stay at Sugarbush
Looking for a little more comfort after those big climbs? Book a room at The Lodge at Lincoln Peak and save 20% on stays of two nights or more. Just a short drive (or mellow pedal) from the start line and even closer to a hot shower.
Stay a Little Longer
Make it a long, strange trip. Book Friday and Saturday night and we’ll throw in Thursday or Sunday free. More trails. More tunes. More time to soak it all in.
In the Spirit of the Dead…
As the sun sets behind Mt. Ellen, Grateful Gravel ‘25 isn’t just an event – it’s a living, breathing ode to the “vibe is flow” ethos of the Grateful Dead. Whether you’re rinsing gravel dust off your tires, basking in a sunset groove, or singing every note into the night, this is more than a ride or a concert – it’s a coming-home for the curious, the adventurous, and the dreamers.