Hart Hills

May weather proved variable but manageable across race years. The 2025 edition started at 55°F and foggy before "the sun came out during the race" and became "just the right temp." Wind dominates the challenge - Christina Vipond experienced gusts so strong that "one more gust of wind made me stop riding completely because it was pushing me into the lane of an oncoming truck." Similar climate challenges to SBT GRVL.[1]

Downtown Hart start/finish keeps things simple, and Friday night packet pickup behind Hart Pizza has small-town accessibility. Race director Raymond Passchier delivers pre-race announcements with specific course warnings like "sand at mile 23" and "large pothole at mile 32 - stay left." The 9 AM start gives you time for coffee and regret.[1]

The course routes through "asparagus fields and orchards" with unexpected challenges at named segments. The sharp "Remember" turn surprises riders with "a downhill turn onto a washed out, sandy two-track" - unexpected enough that riders laugh and say "seriously?" To volunteers. Course includes seasonal roads that can be completely washed out.[5]

Hart Hills is a regional Michigan series race with zero national recognition and no notable pro field. No prize purse, no media coverage, just age group medals for the locals. It's part of the Michigan Gravel Race Series, which tells you exactly how far your bragging rights travel.[2]

If you're local to Michigan—yes, it's good value. If you're traveling—skip it.