Our Story

Since 1998, “Hoppers” have become an iconic fixture in the world of gravel and mixed-terrain cycling. Founded by Miguel Crawford, the Grasshopper Adventure Series was the first of its kind. It sparked a movement, blending bike types and routes to challenge riders in an all-new way. From winding back roads to rugged dirt paths, Hoppers set the stage for a unique riding experience that’s more about self-discovery and resilience than simply crossing a finish line.

More than a Race

Hoppers are a celebration of adventure, built for those who love the thrill of the unknown. Both the Grasshopper Adventure Series and Grasshopper Special Events are designed to encourage self-reliance and independence. Riders must be prepared to navigate using GPS, tackle mechanical fixes, and challenge themselves on every climb and descent. As Ted King put it, the Grasshopper Adventure Series “is everything that’s right about bike riding as we know it! It’s fun, it’s camaraderie, it’s mass start, it’s gravel, and it’s badass.”

What to Expect

Scenic Diversity: Experience the incredible variety of Northern California’s terrain—from sweeping vistas and peaceful forests to remote backroads and gravel tracks. Hoppers are carefully curated to offer views and trails you won’t find in traditional races.

Community Support and Pre-Ride Prep: Grasshopper events are a fully immersive experience, with roaming course marshalls, course preview videos, and well-stocked rest stops (don’t miss the hot grilled cheese!). After the ride, relax and celebrate with fellow riders at the post-ride party featuring food, drinks, and music.

A Welcoming, Inclusive Community:
At the heart of the Grasshopper Adventure Series is a community of passionate cyclists and explorers. All levels of riders—from beginners to World Cup pros—are welcome, and all can compete without needing a USA Cycling or UCI license. Hoppers feature podiums for male, female, and non-binary riders, and every participant is celebrated for their effort and spirit.

Giving Back

The Grasshopper Adventure Series is proud to support nonprofits dedicated to bettering our communities. A portion of each registration is donated to organizations including the NorCal Interscholastic Cycling League, Redwood Trails Alliance, Adventure Therapy Foundation, Be Good Foundation, Redwood Forest Foundation, and various high school mountain bike teams. Together, we’re building a stronger community and giving back to the regions where Hoppers are held.

I don't believe people are looking for the meaning of life as much as they are looking for the experience of being alive.

— Joseph Campbell

FAQ

  • It depends! Each adventure has its own flavor and each Hopper has something for everyone. While you can ride at your own pace, there’s opportunities for competition with podiums and timing. Some riders push for their best finish, and others are there simply to enjoy the adventure.

    It’s up to you if you are out to race, ride or just enjoy exploring a new route in NorCal.  All Hopper routes are open and riders must obey all traffic laws and rules. See RULES OF ENGAGEMENT.

  • You can register for any upcoming Grasshopper on our registration platform Movemint. Keep in mind that spots may fill up, so early registration is recommended!

  • Most Hoppers are designed with gravel or mixed-terrain bikes in mind, but route descriptions are posted for each event to help you decide. Some courses might be better suited to mountain bikes or road bikes with wider tires.

  • Essentials include a GPS device with the route downloaded, repair tools, food, and plenty of hydration. We also recommend bringing layers, as weather can be unpredictable.

  • Grasshoppers are self-sufficient events, so you’re expected to bring what you need to handle any minor mechanical issues. There will be roving course marshals and mechanics at some aid stations, but riders should be prepared for the adventure!

  • Yes! Each Hopper has at least one aid station along the route, stocked with water, hydration, snacks, and sometimes hot grilled cheese sandwiches. 

  • These are adventure rides, so riders are responsible for themselves on the course. However, we have emergency services on standby and a sweep vehicle to monitor the end of the ride.

  • The routes are marked, however you’ll rely on a GPS device for most routes. GPS files are provided in advance for each event, and riders are encouraged to pre-ride if possible.

  • Yes! Each Hopper has at least one aid station along the route, stocked with water, hydration, snacks, and sometimes hot grilled cheese sandwiches. 

  • Plan to arrive at least an hour before your start time to check in, get situated, and enjoy some pre-ride camaraderie and coffee.

  • Each Hopper ends with a celebration including food, drinks, and a chance to share stories with fellow riders. It’s a time to relax and kick back after a hard day’s ride.

  • Yes! Some Hopper locations offer camping options, especially at multi-day events. Check each event’s details for location-specific camping info.

  • no but you may transfer your registration to another rider. Check our registration policy below for details, or contact us if you have questions.

  • Absolutely! We’re always looking for volunteers to help with registration, aid stations, and course support. Volunteers get a free event entry or other perks—contact us to learn more or sign up to volunteer through our registration platform, Movemint.

  • Yes, Hoppers include categories for age groups, male, female, and non-binary riders. All results are posted by category after each event.

  • Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media for the latest news, registration dates, and event updates!

    • Registration Process:

      • Registration is available online through Movemint. If there are remaining spots in the event day of registration will be available for an additional fee of $20

      • Each event requires separate registration unless you purchase a series pass.

    • Payment and Confirmation:

      • Payment is due at the time of registration to secure your spot.

      • You will receive a confirmation email upon successful registration.

    • Transfer and Refund Policy:

      • Transfers to another Rider may be allowed up to a specified deadline before the event.

      • Refunds are typically not offered

    • Waitlist:

      • If an event reaches capacity, a waitlist may be available. Participants will be notified in order of sign-up if spots open.

    • Event Day Rules:

      • Registration is transferable on the day of the event for a fee of $20

      • Participants must check in on-site with a valid ID to receive their number plate and timing chip (if applicable).

    • Waiver:

      • All participants must sign a liability waiver during registration or check-in.

  • Don’t Cross the Yellow Line

    Stay in your lane! We have a permit to use the road, but that doesn’t exempt us from following traffic laws. No crossing the yellow line—otherwise known as the middle of the road!—even if the group swells or the pace slows. If there’s no yellow line, stay to the right.

    All riders must obey the rules of the road.

    Don’t Ride or Pass Aggressively

    Grasshopper Adventure Series events are designed to challenge you. We've curated these routes with just the right balance of NorCal’s finest winding backroads, gravel paths, and dirt tracks. This is about adventure and camaraderie, but it also inspires independence. Not sure about your fitness, ability, or familiarity with the course? Here are some tips:

    1. Pace yourself. Smooth before fast.
    Study the course ahead of time, including the map, elevation, and terrain.
    2. Bring essentials: extra tubes, tire boots, CO2 and a pump, food, water, warm clothes, a course map or GPS, space blanket, and a good-luck charm.
    3. Make new friends, especially locals—they know the roads.

    Obey traffic laws. The course is open, marked, and, where possible, pre-riding is encouraged. Our route is marked with arrows (Purple for King Ridge) and key intersections are covered, but always expect cars around tight corners.

    Stage Wisely

    Choose the starting group that matches your fitness level. We have a mass start uphill to safely spread riders out.

    SAG and Emergencies Only

    We’ll have an ambulance and SAG (Support and Gear) vehicles for injuries only. If you’re tired or cramping, you’ll need to make your own way back. Carry tubes, a pump (not just CO2), chain tools, and cash for food stops if needed. Water, hydration and snacks will be available at two rest stops, but bring your own extra fuel.

    No Personal Support Vehicles

    No personal SAG or follow vehicles allowed. We need to limit cars on the road. Not ready to go minimal? This event might not be for you—yet. If you'd like to volunteer on the course to see what it’s all about, let us know. Volunteers earn entry to a future Grasshopper event.

    No E-Bikes or Aero Bars period.

    If you drop out mid-course, have a friend notify us at the finish.