Well…why not both? With Grasshopper Special Events, each adventure has its own flavor. Some are all about the the experience, the views, and soaking it all in, while others crank up the challenge for those who love a little friendly competition.

In 2025, all Grasshopper Special Events will be non-competitive experiences. No prizes or podiums will be awarded. We invite riders of all levels to connect, explore, and discover new routes together, truly celebrating the essence of cycling

Entries to individual Grasshopper Special Events may be transferred to another rider via Movemint ahead of the event for $10, or the day of the event for $20.

This excludes Grasshopper Special Event multi-day tours like the Mendo Hopper.

Grasshopper Special Events take decades of exploring Northern California and beyond, curating that knowledge into unique cycling experiences outside the main Grasshopper Adventure Series. From fun one-day rides to extended gravel tours, these events showcase stunning terrain and routes designed to challenge and inspire riders. Each Special Event fosters a spirit of adventure and community, celebrating the essence of cycling in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere.

Do Not 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 rides 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:

• Pace yourself. Smooth before fast.

• Study the course ahead of time, including the map, elevation, and terrain.

• 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.

• 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.

Lunch, Sierra Nevada beer, and Guayaki await all finishers!


Questions? Visit our FAQ page for more information.

Male: Pro, U18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+
Female: Pro, U18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+
Non Binary

Hoppers are more than just rides; they’re community events.

Financial Support to Non-Profits
A portion of each registration is donated to a variety of nonprofits working to improve lives and the communities where Hoppers are held. Organizations receiving financial support from the 2024 Hoppers include the NorCal Interscholastic Cycling League, Redwood Trails Alliance, Adventure Therapy Foundation, Be Good Foundation, Redwood Forest Foundation and various high school mountain bike teams who will be helping with event rest stops.

Local Businesses
We partner with local companies to bolster our community and bring the best of NorCal to you.

• A crazy hard, super fun adventure with a bunch of your new and old cycling buddies.

• Feed zones with Skratch and GU Energy Labs hydration & nutrition. Presented by Trailhouse, NorCal Bike Sport, and Bike Peddler.

• Hot coffee and fresh baked pastries from Black Oak Coffee Roasters the morning of each event.

• Delicious lunch, cold Guayaki and Best Day Brewing beer at the finish.

• Emergency Medical Support en route.

• Unforgettable stories of adventure.