Great Western Reroute Expands Access with New Short Course Option for 2025
With just under two weeks until the 2025 Great Western Reroute kicks off on May 17th, we're thrilled to announce a game-changing addition to San Diego's premier gravel adventure: a Short Course option that opens this iconic event to an entirely new community of riders.
A First for the Great Western Reroute: Two Course Options
Since its humble beginnings in 2018 with just seven explorers, the Great Western Reroute has evolved into East County San Diego's most anticipated spring gravel ride. What started as a creative reimagining of the historic Great Western Loop has grown into a must-ride experience for gravel enthusiasts throughout Southern California.
For the first time in Reroute history, riders can now choose between two meticulously crafted routes when registering on BikeReg:
The Full Course: Our classic 70-mile epic adventure featuring approximately 7,500 feet of elevation gain across diverse terrain
The NEW Short Course: A more accessible 45-mile, 4,100 ft journey that still captures the essence of what makes the GWR special
This expansion represents a pivotal moment in the event's evolution and reflects our commitment to making Southern California's gravel community more inclusive and welcoming to riders of all experience levels.
Pro cyclist Brian McCulloch shares essential gravel riding tips with Southern California's adventure-seeking cyclists at the 2024 Great Western Reroute start line in San Diego's East County.
Strategic Aid Station Placement Makes It Possible
The addition of this exciting Short Course option was made possible through careful planning and strategic aid station placement. When designing the 2025 route, our team identified an ideal location at mile 50 of the Full Course (mile 23 of the Short Course) that creates a natural opportunity for two routes to leverage the same aid station..
This well-stocked aid station serves as both:
A crucial refueling point for Full Course riders before they tackle the final 20 miles
The perfect location for aid on a Short Course for riders to rest and regroup
By adding a second aid station at mile 50 of the Full Course, we've created a semi-supported adventure that maintains the rugged, self-sufficient spirit of gravel riding while providing strategic support when it matters most.
The Short Course Experience: Premium Gravel Without the Extra Suffering
While the Short Course offers a more approachable 45-mile distance, don't mistake it for a watered-down experience. This carefully curated route still delivers the signature GWR magic that riders crave, including:
The premium gravel sections of Viejas Grade that have become synonymous with the event
The stunning singletrack through Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, widely considered the day's highlight
Approximately 4,000 feet of elevation gain—challenging enough to feel accomplished, yet accessible to a broader range of riders
The Short Course still delivers the GWR magic you crave - featuring some of the same premium gravel and stunning singletrack without the extra suffering. It's perfect for those newer to gravel or not quite fully prepared and looking for a slightly less demanding day in the saddle.
The strategic aid station at mile 23 of the Great Western Reroute Short Course offers riders essential nutrition and hydration for conquering East County San Diego's premium gravel terrain.
Who is the Short Course For?
The addition of the Short Course opens the Great Western Reroute to several new groups of riders:
Gravel Curious: Those transitioning from road riding who want to experience Southern California's premier gravel event without committing to the full 70 miles
Time-Constrained: Riders who love the GWR vibe but can't dedicate a full day in the saddle
Fitness Building: Participants working toward longer events who want to be part of the GWR community while building their endurance
Recovery Focused: Experienced riders who are in a recovery block or preparing for other May gravel events in their racing calendar
Flexibility in Registration
Already registered for the Full Course but feeling the Short Course fits your current goals better? No problem! Simply switch your registration on BikeReg with a few clicks. This flexibility reflects our community-first approach—we understand that training plans and life circumstances change.
Determined cyclists tackle the challenging climbs of the Great Western Reroute, gaining over 7,500 feet of elevation across 70 miles of Southern California's most beautiful backcountry roads.
Limited Spots and growing accessibility
With just two weeks until the May 17th event, only a handful of registration spots remain for either course option. The new Short Course has sparked fresh interest in what was already one of Southern California's most anticipated spring gravel events. If you've been curious about the GWR but hesitant about the distance, this is your perfect opportunity to experience our special atmosphere and challenging terrain without committing to the full 70 miles. By adding this accessible Short Course alongside our classic Full Course, the Great Western Reroute joins the movement toward making premium gravel events more inclusive while preserving the adventure that draws so many to gravel riding. Our semi-supported format strikes the perfect balance between self-sufficiency and strategic aid when you need it most.
Riders experience the magic of pristine gravel conditions on Boulder Creek during the 2025 Great Western Reroute, East County San Diego's premier spring gravel ride.
Looking Ahead to May 17th
Whether you choose the epic 70-mile journey or the new 45-mile adventure, you'll enjoy ideal riding conditions with temperatures around 70°F, perfectly packed dirt from recent mountain moisture, and the legendary camaraderie that makes the GWR a calendar highlight for gravel enthusiasts.
Time is running out to secure your spot in what promises to be our most inclusive and exciting edition yet! Register now on BikeReg or follow us on social media for the latest updates.
