You have to pay to play. This 57-mile, 8,000+ foot odyssey connects two of our most beloved San Diego County wilderness gems… Daley Ranch and Palomar Mountain in one unforgettable journey. Starting early at the Daley Ranch dirt lot, riders will climb into the belly of the Ranch and flow through sweet doubletrack before slipping out onto the quiet paved roads of Valley Center. The route meanders through crisp morning air, eventually sweeping down Cole Grade Road as Palomar Mountain's imposing peaks stretch across the horizon ahead.
The real challenge begins at Highway 76, where riders turn onto the legendary Nate Harrison Grade, an HC kicker of 100% gravel climbing 9 miles with 4,200 feet of elevation gain at a punishing 8% average grade. After pushing to the peak, enjoy the view from Boucher Tower before making your way to the route's single resupply at Palomar Mountain General Store. What follows is an exhilarating descent down South Grade Road's 20+ hairpin turns, carving back to the valley floor.
But the adventure isn't over. The route continues past Harrah's Resort, tackling Valley Center Road's climbs before descending Lake Wohlford Road back toward Escondido for one final dirt adventure. The circle closes as riders climb back into the Ranch via the Caballo Trail singletrack, navigating technical terrain to a Creek Crossing before returning to where the day started, accomplished and hungry for more.
There are two key regroup opportunities: mile 4.5 before the left turn onto Valley Center Road (ahead of a 10-mile paved section), and mile 29 at the General Store resupply. Limited camping available Saturday night, Oct 25 at Dixon Lake Campground. Contact dave@gravelstoke.com to reserve.
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 Palomar Mountain General Store is your only 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 route to your GPS device and carry a backup navigation method. Cell service is spotty, especially on Palomar Mtn. We start early to avoid afternoon heat and give ourselves adequate daylight. Weather can change rapidly at elevation. Pack layers and check Valley Center and Palomar Mountain 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: There's only one route for Ranch to Ridge. No bailout options at this rodeo. Gravelstoke assumes no responsibility for incidents, injuries, or mishaps; this is strictly a "ride at your own risk" event. We'll 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 through Valley Center and descending South Grade. After conquering the route, we'll reconvene at Dixon Lake Picnic Area to share food, swap stories, and celebrate the day's accomplishments with unrivaled stoke.
