Reputation: Regional FL event.
[01]
Course Overview
Longleaf pine ecosystem gravel through Blackwater and Conecuh National Forests.
45 mi
Distance
1,500 ft
Elevation
Milton, FL
Location
March 21, 2026
Date
~75
Field Size
$60-80
Entry Cost
Facts & History
[03]
The Course
Photo: YouTube / Troy and Andrea's Little Adventures
Photo: YouTube / Troy and Andrea's Little AdventuresFlorida panhandle gravel.
Signature challenge: Florida panhandle terrain.
15
MILE
Early Panhandle
First panhandle sections.
22
MILE
Midpoint
Halfway through the course.
38
MILE
Late Panhandle
Final panhandle sections before finish.
RIDERS REPORT
Lots of hills
Punchy hills throughout the course that challenge riders
Northern loop
Course includes a northern section above highway four that riders describe as challenging
Paul Barnes Road
Key road marker where riders return from the northern loop with about 5 miles to finish
Sand sections near finish
Sandy conditions encountered in the final approach to the finish line
Chunky sandy surface conditions mixed with gravel and asphalt
Lots of water on course due to recent rain
Course runs through Blackwater River State Forest area
[04]
From the Field
It's chunky sandy so it ought to be quite interesting... lots of hills, punchy hills... definitely a workout and a challenge.
Troy and Andrea's Little Adventures · 326 views
This event has been around for many many years and visits the Blackwater River State Forest area of Florida up in the Panhandle... there are several routes on offer including for those seeking big miles a 200m option.
Gravel Cyclist · 1.9K views
This event has been around for for many many years and visits the Blackwater River State Forest area of Florida up in the Panhandle
Gravel Cyclist · 1.9K views
There are several routes on offer including for those seeking big miles a 200m option
Gravel Cyclist · 1.9K views
RACER
Racer Reviews
Raced Scratch Ankle Gravel? Be the first to rate it.
[07]
Training
March 21, 2026 SCRATCH ANKLE GRAVEL
[08]
Train for Scratch Ankle Gravel
RACE DEMAND PROFILE
Durability
1
Climbing
2
VO2 Power
2
Threshold
3
Technical
2
Heat
1
Altitude
2
Race Specificity
3
FREE
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[09]
Race Logistics
Airport
Pensacola (PNS) 30 minutes
Lodging
Milton has limited lodging. Consider Pensacola.
Food
Milton has limited dining. Stock nutrition.
Packet Pickup
Day of typically
Parking
At start/finish
[10]
Tire Picks
40mmFAST
1
Continental Terra Speed
fast rolling at 28.5W
2
Schwalbe G-One RS
fast rolling at 29.0W
3
Challenge Getaway Pro
fast rolling at 28.0W
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Similar Races
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like at Scratch Ankle Gravel?
March timing has shifted from March 16 in 2024 to March 8 in 2025, suggesting weather optimization efforts. Spring conditions in humid Florida Panhandle remain unpredictable for temperature and precipitation during race season. More weather exposure than Belgian Waffle Ride San Diego.[1]
How are the logistics for Scratch Ankle Gravel?
Registration opens January with packet pickup details 'coming soon' and price increases February 22nd. Bear Lake Campground provides the start location with basic facilities, though specific parking and packet pickup logistics remain underdeveloped.[2]
How adventurous is Scratch Ankle Gravel?
Route through Blackwater River State Forest and into Conecuh National Forest provides longleaf pine ecosystem immersion away from urban development. The natural setting offers scenic forest riding with camping opportunities at Bear Lake.[1]
How prestigious is Scratch Ankle Gravel?
Marketed as 'one of the Southeast's most distinctive gravel racing experiences' but lacks notable past winners or media coverage. The race supports local trail maintenance, providing community benefit without national recognition.[1]
Should I race Scratch Ankle Gravel?
If you're local to FL/Southeast—yes, it's solid. If you're traveling—skip it.
[11]
Sources & Citations
Research sources used to build this race profile. Always verify details with official race sources before making travel or registration decisions.
- Other Sources Elitewheelselitewheels.com/events/scratch-ankle-gravel/
- Registration BikeRegwww.bikereg.com/scratch-ankle-gravel
- Other Sources Granfondoguidewww.granfondoguide.com/Events/Index/scratch-ankle-gravel