Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race 2026 — Chelsea, MI

Date
October 4, 2026
Location
Chelsea, MI
Venue
20501 W Old US Hwy 12
Start Time
7:00 AM
Sunrise
7:35 AM
Entry Fee
$54.00 – $109.00
Events
24 Miles - Open, 24 Miles - Single Speed, 24 Miles - Fat Bike, 24 Miles - Clydesdale, 24 Miles - Athena, 24 Miles - Tandem
Includes
T-Shirt

The Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race starts at 7:00 AM, so plan your arrival the night before if you're traveling from a distance. Held in Chelsea, Michigan, this event offers three distinct distances: a 1-mile option, a 24-mile course, and a 100-mile ultra for serious gravel cyclists. The race takes place on October 4, 2026, at 20501 W Old US Hwy 12. Entry fees range from $54 to $109 depending on your chosen distance. Whether you're looking for a short introduction to gravel racing or tackling the full ultra-distance challenge, this event accommodates various fitness levels and experience. Book your lodging nearby to ensure an early arrival and proper rest before race day.

From the Race Organizer
A NEW FALL FAVORITE GRAVEL EVENT: FALL COLORS, FOOD, BEER, LIVE MUSIC Chelsea, MI To Hell, MI (And Back). Rode To HELL is a gravel bike event consisting of three distances: 71 Mile, 41 Mile and 24 Mile. The event encompasses Jackson, Washtenaw, Livingston and Ingham Counties. A majority of the roads traveled will be gravel with smaller segments of paved portions, making for a memorable and unique challenge at the longer distances.

Course & Travel Notes

The Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race kicks off early on October 4th, 2026 at 7:00 AM in Chelsea, Michigan, so you'll want to get to the venue while it's still dark—sunrise won't arrive until 7:36 AM. The venue sits at 955 feet elevation, which is pretty manageable for most riders. October weather in this area typically tops out around 61°F with lows near 40°F, and there's about a one-in-three chance of rain, so pack layers and rain gear just in case. Jackson County Airport (JXN) is your closest flying option at about 22.6 miles from the race location, making it convenient for getting in and out of the area.

⛰️ 955 ft elevation☀️ Typically 61°F / 40°F · 36% chance of rain✈️ Jackson County Airport/Reynolds Field (JXN) — 22.6 mi

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Chelsea, MI. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race 2026 — Chelsea, MI

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for October 4.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Chelsea, MI. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race 2026 — Chelsea, MI?

Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race 2026 — Chelsea, MI takes place on October 4, 2026. The race is held in Chelsea, Michigan.

Where is Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race 2026 — Chelsea, MI held?

Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race 2026 — Chelsea, MI is held at 20501 W Old US Hwy 12 in Chelsea, Michigan.

Where can I find hotels near Rode to Hell Gravel Bike Race 2026 — Chelsea, MI?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Chelsea. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.