Pony Express Gravel Dash 2023

Embrace the spirit of the legendary Pony Express riders and embark on an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes and charming towns of northeast Kansas! The Pony Express 120 Gravel Dash (PXGD) is an eagerly anticipated annual gravel road race, commencing from the historic town of Marysville, Kansas. Not only does this event offer challenging terrain, but it also pays homage to the remarkable history of the Pony Express.

Scheduled for Friday, September 8, 2023, the Pony Express 120 Bikepacking adventure promises an exhilarating experience. On Saturday, September 9th, participants can choose from our range of options, including the traditional 30-mile tour, the 75-mile timed race, and the ultimate 120-mile challenge.

Marysville holds a significant place in Pony Express history, being the first Home Station for westbound travelers seeking rest and respite. The original Home Station barn now stands as a captivating museum in the heart of the downtown area. As you embark on this adventure, you’ll be transported back in time, passing through historic towns and homesteads, and basking in the beauty of tree-covered river valleys.

Drawing inspiration from renowned gravel rides and races in the region, our event is designed to push cyclists to their limits. With vast stretches of remote terrain, participants will truly experience the thrill of exploration. Rest assured, several towns and support locations are strategically placed along the route, providing opportunities for resupply and assistance.

Choose your challenge from the three options: the 30, 75, or 120-mile rides, each promising an immersive gravel and hill-climbing experience, mirroring the very paths traversed by the brave Pony Express riders over 150 years ago. Prepare to embrace history as you ride through the same territory that shaped the course of time. Our meticulously crafted route encompasses both the Pony Express and Pioneer Trails, allowing you to follow in the footsteps of the pioneers who paved the way for future generations.

The region proudly boasts the convergence of eight historic trails, each brimming with significance: The Pony Express, Oregon, California, Mormon, Otoe-Missouri Trails, Fort Leavenworth Military Road, St. Joseph Road, and the Overland Stage. Though the markers and structures may have aged with time, they serve as poignant reminders of the once-thriving towns, campsites, and school districts that left an indelible mark on history.

As you saddle up and ride through the gravel roads and rolling hills, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, feeling the adrenaline of a modern-day Pony Express rider. This is an adventure of a lifetime, a chance to embrace history, and a testament to the endurance of the human spirit. So gear up, join us at the Pony Express 120 Gravel Dash, and create your own tale of courage, perseverance, and camaraderie amidst the breathtaking landscapes of northeast Kansas.