Reputation: Regional Alberta event.
[01]
Course Overview
Alberta mountain gravel challenge.
76 mi
Distance
5,269 ft
Elevation
Claresholm, Alberta
Location
July 11, 2026
Date
~200
Field Size
$100-150
Entry Cost
Facts & History
[03]
The Course
Photo: YouTube / The Gravel Experience
Photo: YouTube / The Gravel ExperienceAlberta mountain gravel.
Signature challenge: Alberta mountainous terrain.
30
MILE
Early Mountains
First mountain sections.
50
MILE
Midpoint
Halfway through the course.
80
MILE
Late Mountains
Final mountain sections before finish.
RIDERS REPORT
Junction Decision Point
Riders must choose between the 60km Rodeo ride or turning left to continue for the full rustler distance. Decision point impacts race strategy especially on hot days.
Burke Creek Ranch MI 8
Private road onto working ranch accessible only on race day, features super fast downhill section onto the ranch property.
Gravel course was in perfect condition with public gravel roads that are really quiet with mainly marshalling vehicles for traffic.
Landscape feels ancient and fossil-rich with dinosaur burial sites deep in the coulees, stretching out pristine ranch views.
[04]
From the Field
It was a pretty special feeling going off down that gravel. I wasn't nervous so much as super excited for a big day out on the bike. We were absolutely loaded with food and water prepared to be self-sufficient but knowing we had an aid station at our turnaround point.
Christine Pedersen · 738 views
We were there for a big day out riding our bikes in beautiful countryside and having a brilliant time on this absolutely incredible gravel course. It was in perfect condition.
Christine Pedersen · 738 views
When dinosaurs ruled the Earth I had this almost romantic vision that this is a landscape where dinosaurs had died, their bodies buried now deep in the coulees. Alberta is very fossil rich and the shape of the land feels ancient.
Christine Pedersen · 738 views
Race day a lovely sunny morning around 20 Celsius, we knew that in the afternoon it was going to be in the mid-30s. The ride started at 8:00 so we would be back before the real heat of the day kicked in.
Christine Pedersen · 738 views
RACER
Racer Reviews
Raced The Range? Be the first to rate it.
[07]
Training
July 11, 2026 THE RANGE
[08]
Train for The Range
RACE DEMAND PROFILE
Durability
6
Climbing
6
VO2 Power
4
Threshold
8
Technical
6
Heat
2
Altitude
4
Race Specificity
6
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[09]
Race Logistics
Airport
Calgary (YYC) varies by location
Lodging
Alberta has good lodging options.
Food
Alberta has full dining options. Stock nutrition.
Packet Pickup
Day before typically
Parking
At start/finish
RIDERS REPORT
If not used to riding in a pack, give yourself more space as the first part goes really fast.
Come prepared to be self-sufficient with food and water, though there is an aid station at the turnaround point.
Work from heart rate zones and anticipate how your body will feel to set realistic target times.
[10]
Tire Picks
42mmMIXED
1
Specialized Pathfinder Pro
Fast center, grippy edges. The modern all-rounder benchmark.
2
Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M
Mixed-terrain specialist. Balanced grip and speed for variable conditions.
3
Panaracer GravelKing SK
Affordable all-rounder. Light knobs add grip without killing speed.
FRONT/REAR SPLIT Vittoria Terreno Dry 40mm / Specialized Pathfinder Pro 42mmFaster front for reduced rolling resistance on straights, grippier rear for traction on loose climbs and corners
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Similar Races
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the climate like at The Range?
Mid-July in southern Alberta typically runs 70-85°F with afternoon thunderstorm potential. Standard prairie weather - manageable without the furnace heat of Kansas summer gravel or hypothermia risk of early season mountain races. Similar climate challenges to SBT GRVL.[1]
How are the logistics for The Range?
Calgary airport then 90-minute drive to Claresholm isn't convenient. Limited lodging options in a town of 3800 people means booking early or camping at Centennial Park. Start/finish at the same location helps, but small-town infrastructure shows its limits quickly.[1]
How adventurous is The Range?
Private ranch access through Burke Creek Ranch opens territory 'typically off-limits to the public.' The route traverses open grasslands, dense Porcupine hills forest, and ranch roads with sweeping Rocky Mountain views that riders can't access any other day.[1]
How prestigious is The Range?
TransRockies President Aaron McConnell calls The Range 'an iconic event that aligns perfectly with what we do.' Founded in 2020, it joined the TransRockies Race Series in 2024 and now earns points toward the Gravel Earth Series ranking.[1]
Should I race The Range?
If you're in Canada—yes, it's solid. If you're international—there are better options.
[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 Granfondoguidewww.granfondoguide.com/Events/Index/10123/the-range