Blue Bird is a 60-mile, 4,000-foot loop built around a short gravel climb hidden in plain sight in Vista: Blue Bird Canyon Road. The route began as an attempt to craft a 100km ride around that road, which Jake Orness first showed me a few years ago as the backdrop for a new gravel bike he was shooting.

We gather at the Lost Abbey parking lot in Vista, with restrooms available at the brewery while we prep. After a short rider meeting, we roll out at 8am and head north to Buena Creek Road, then east for some hidden tracks around San Marcos before dropping into Escondido. A quick gas station stop restocks bottles before we climb into the hills of East Canyon, then on to the hero dirt of San Dieguito River Park and Raptor Ridge. Lake Hodges singletrack carries us back, and we return to Vista through Rancho Santa Fe and Carlsbad.

Only 30% of the route is unpaved. It was designed to be fast, stringing together a collection of fun dirt segments that are a blast to hit in one ride. Resupplies come at mile 22 and mile 47, and we’ll regroup post ride at The Lost Abbey.

Short on time or fitness? Blue Bird Lite is also available.

Important Reminders

Bike Setup & Self-Sufficiency: With diverse road and dirt surfaces, the optimal setup is a gravel bike with tubeless tires at least 40mm wide. Come completely self-sufficient with hand pump, CO2 cartridges, extra tubes, multi-tool, chain links, and derailleur hanger. Carry ample food and water for 5+ hours of riding, as there is only one resupply opportunity.

Route Responsibility & Safety: This is entirely self-supported with no SAG wagon, aid stations, or course marking. You're 100% responsible for navigation, mechanicals, nutrition, and emergency extraction. Download the suggested route to your GPS device and carry a backup navigation method. Cell service will be spotty. Weather can change rapidly. Pack layers and check conditions before departure.

Trail Etiquette: Help us preserve access by staying on designated trails and never riding dirt in wet or muddy conditions. When encountering hikers, equestrians, or other riders, slow down, communicate early, and pass safely with a friendly greeting. Respect private property and follow Leave No Trace principles throughout your adventure.

And Lastly: Gravelstoke assumes no responsibility for incidents, injuries, or mishaps; this is strictly a "ride at your own risk" event. We'll likely have multiple groups rolling at different paces, so find a group that matches your comfort level and fitness. The course remains open to traffic throughout. Obey all traffic laws and stay vigilant for vehicles, especially on the paved sections.

2026 allies

Thank you to our 2026 Allies for supporting Gravelstoke's community, content, and adventures including Kenda Tire, Ride With GPS, Feedback Sports, Bonnici Law Group, Holland Cycles, Sport Clips, Athletic Brewing, and Voler Apparel.

MERCH