Technical snowmobile-trail gravel through Minnesota's North Shore at peak fall foliage.
The Super Bowl of gravel. 200 miles through Kansas Flint Hills. Where legends are made and dreams die in the dust.
| Heck of the North | Unbound Gravel 200 | |
|---|---|---|
| COURSE PROFILE | ||
| Length | ||
| Technicality | ||
| Elevation | ||
| Climate | ||
| Altitude | ||
| Logistics | ||
| Adventure | ||
| EDITORIAL ASSESSMENT | ||
| Prestige | ||
| Race Quality | ||
| Experience | ||
| Community | ||
| Field Depth | ||
| Value | ||
| Expenses | ||
Unbound Gravel 200 scores 24 points higher overall (95 vs 71), but the right choice depends on what you value most.
"Minnesota's sneakiest technical test disguised as a scenic fall colors ride."
"The gravel race by which all others are measured."
Unbound Gravel 200 rates as the more demanding race based on our composite difficulty score (averaging length, technicality, elevation, climate, and altitude ratings). If you're looking for the bigger challenge, go with Unbound Gravel 200. If you want a more accessible race, Heck of the North is the better pick.
Unbound Gravel 200 scores 95/100 compared to 71/100 in our 15-dimension Gravel God Rating. The overall score reflects course profile, prestige, race quality, community, and value.
Heck of the North is generally more accessible for first-time gravel racers, factoring in distance, technicality, and logistical ease. Check each race's full profile for distance options and beginner-specific advice.
Heck of the North takes place in September and Unbound Gravel 200 in June. If your calendar allows, you could race both in the same season.
Heck of the North is held in Two Harbors, Minnesota. Unbound Gravel 200 is held in Emporia, Kansas. Consider travel logistics, especially if you're flying in — check our full race profiles for airport and lodging details.
Get a personalized training plan for either race — tailored to your fitness, schedule, and goals.
$15/week, capped at $249. One-time payment.