The Distance - A GravelMax Adventure
- Date:
- Sat, May 02, 2026 at 6:00 AM
- Location:
-
1473 County Road 477
Cooke County, Texas
76252
United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps - Links:
- runsignup.com
- Tags:
- Gravel Run
GRAVELMAX 001: THE DISTANCE
The Butterfield Overland Edition Start/Finish: 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery (Muenster, TX) Distance: 300ish, 210ish, 130ish Miles
THE MISSION Before you tackle the Unbound XL, the Arkansas High Country, or the Divide, you need to know if you can go The Distance.
This is the inaugural GravelMax Adventure. We are tracing the historic Butterfield Overland Mail Route, the original 1850s "highway" across the West. Just like the stagecoaches of old, we will be connecting remote outposts, battling the elements, and relying on grit to get from station to station.
THE ROUTE: Over 300 MILES OF TEXAS HISTORY This isn't just a loop; it’s a tour of the best gravel North Texas has to offer.
The Terrain: We traverse the rugged escarpments of the Red River, the deep woods of the Cross Timbers, and the rolling ranch lands of Jacksboro.
The Highlights: You will hit the legendary Bugscuffle, the climb up High Point, the remote roads of Cundiff, and the scenic 4R Ranch property.
The Surface: A mix of fast hardpack, chunky B-roads, and forgotten county lanes.
THE SUPPORT MODEL: "THE FLOATING CARAVAN" This is semi-supported in a way you haven't seen before. Instead of static aid stations that pack up while you are still riding, our Support Van acts as a Floating Relay Station.
Leapfrog Support: The van will move ahead of the lead group to designated public campsites/relay points along the route.
The Oasis: When the van is at a relay point, it is open for water, ice, mechanical triage, and morale boosting.
The Safety Net: If you crack, you can camp at the relay spot until help arrives. There are also motels and additional camping along the route as well as plenty of opportunities for resupply.
Tent camping is availble at relay sites for all distances.
PREREQUISITES
Navigation: You must have a GPS unit capable of running a 300-mile track. There are NO course markings.
Lighting: You will be riding at night. Primary light, backup light, and helmet light are mandatory.
Membership: Current Club Spinistry members only.