CAMP FAQS

Cycling Stuff:

• Warm cycling clothing including gloves, booties, arm and leg warmers, beanie
• Helmet
• Sunglasses
• Cycling shoes
• Rain gear
• Extra cycling socks & gloves
• Cycling computer / GPS device
• Front & rear lights
• Flat repair kit - tire levers, tubes (2), chain tool, multi tool, tire plugs, patch kit, derailleur hanger
• Hand pump or inflation system
• Chain Lube
• Hydration Pack
• Water Bottles - two large ones
• Chamois Cream
• Sunscreen

Other stuff:

• Post ride clothing - Lounge clothes, cozy, comfortable and warm, slippers
• Swim suit & towel
• Toiletries
• Any medications or epi pens
• Special snacks or food items you would like to have (nearest grocery is a long ride away)
• Coffee will be available at 7am each morning. If you would like to have coffee before this, plan accordingly.
• Be sure to bring three full cycling kits, there are no laundry facilities on site

We recommend 38-45mm tubeless tires, with refreshed sealant. The Schwalbe G-One R or G-One All-Around would both be great choices.

You better believe it. Bring your coffee mug to cut down on waste.

Nope, we have you covered! Our good friends at GU Energy are providing us with plenty of nutrition, hydration, and recovery products for our time at camp. If you prefer other ride food, bring it with you. We will also have AMAZING aid stations set up "on course" each day, to be sure you are well fueled!

We will provide a link for you to schedule a 30-min massage for after our long ride on the second day. The cost of the massage is included in your camp registration. However, the massage therapist will happily accept tips.

In preparing for camp, you should be able to ride three back-to-back days, ranging in duration from 3-5 hours per day, at an average speed of 10-15 miles per hour, on a gravel bike. Giving mileage/elevation guidance is difficult because it depends on terrain and surface type. Be prepared for long climbs, awesome descents, and tired legs at the end of each day.
Most of us underestimate our ability, so we are happy to help you determine your skill level. Just email us at hello@specialblendgravel.com

Every day’s route will include some longer climbs and descents, not a lot of flat, and not too many super punchy short climbs.

Example mileage from previous camps:
Fall Camp
Day 1: 44 miles, 5k
Day 2: 50 miles, 4k
Day 3: 28 miles, 2.4k

Spring Camp
Day 1: 45 miles 3.5k
Day 2: 52 miles 4.3k
Day 3: 31 miles, 2.8k

Are you a seasoned roadie curious about gravel riding, a competent mountain biker looking to rally the double track, or a gravel rider looking to hone your craft? If yes, Special Blend Gravel is for you. We welcome intermediate to advanced riders who are looking to build confidence, refine skills, find free speed through corners and on descents, and be a part of a growing community of like-minded cyclists, who like to push the limits and each other, just a little bit.

Still have questions, email us at hello@specialblendgravel.com.
Most of us underestimate our ability, so we are happy to help you determine your skill level.

• You feel comfortable riding in groups and understand pack riding etiquette.
• You can ride steep climbs and descents, and you want to go faster!
• You can ride washboard and navigate bumpy and rocky terrain, but want to do it with more confidence and speed.
• You are comfortable eating and drinking while on the bike.
• You ride or exercise a minimum 5 hours per week and can ride up 4-5 hours, 2-3 days in a row,
• You ride 5 hours, once in a while.
• You have access to a bike with at minimum 38mm tires and disc brakes.

Still have questions, email us at hello@specialblendgravel.com.
Most of us underestimate our ability, so we are happy to help you determine your skill level.

We want to create an immersive experience for all campers, one where we are all as present as we can be. In this effort, we ask that you leave your non-camper friends, partners, kiddos, and pets at home.

Your safety is our top priority. We have an EMT on staff and emergency plans in place. In case of an injury, your situation will be assessed, necessary first aid will be provided, and we’ll coordinate further medical assistance if needed.

We strive to maintain a safe environment, but outdoor activities carry inherent risks. We strongly recommend that all guests maintain personal insurance coverage for unforeseen circumstances. Rest assured, our EMT will be available to assist you during any injury-related incidents, however, we do not offer refunds in the event of an injury. If you have any questions or concerns about our safety protocols, please feel free to contact us.

Betsy Welch, senior editor of Velo, came out to ride at the Spring 2022 camp and wrote two fantastic articles about her experience.

• You can read her Gallery article HERE
• You can read her Letter from Camp HERE

If Special Blend Gravel / Breakaway Promotions cancels camp, a full refund will be issued.

Should the camp be canceled due to COVID a credit will be issued for the amount paid for the camp that may be applied to future camps, transferred to a different rider, or used for any of our events.

If you are unable to attend camp:

• Camp registration is fully refundable if canceled greater than 60 days from the camp start date.
• Camp registration is 50% refundable if canceled 60 to 31 days from the camp start date.
• No registration refund if canceled 30 days or less from the camp start date.
• Exceptions to our cancellation policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather or personal emergencies.

We highly recommend that you purchase the event insurance through BikeReg.com when you register for camp, which may cover you for illness and other issues that may lead to you not being able to participate.