BorderLands Gravel 2025: Cycling, Culture, and Community in Douglas, Arizona

November 14–16, 2025 | Douglas, Arizona

At the far southeastern corner of Arizona sits Douglas, a town defined by history, resilience, and its place along the borderlands. Here, cultures meet, stories intertwine, and landscapes stretch wide into desert and sky.

Adventure here is not only about the miles covered but about the people, history, and spirit of a region. That is the backdrop for BorderLands Gravel, returning this November for a weekend that anchors itself in both cycling and community.

From Friday through Sunday, November 14–16, 2025, Douglas will be alive with activity. Racers, families, and visitors will find themselves immersed in cycling, culture, and celebration. BorderLands Gravel provides the centerpiece, and the entire weekend paints a larger picture: this is a place where you can come for the ride and stay for the experience.

Friday, November 14 – Arrival and Anticipation

The weekend begins with packet and number plate pickup at Art Car World, Douglas’s one-of-a-kind museum celebrating creativity and eccentricity. From 1:00 to 7:30 p.m., racers will check in and get ready for Saturday’s start. For early arrivals, it is a chance to wander downtown, grab a meal, and soak up the character of this historic town. Friday sets the tone with community, connection, and anticipation. At 7:00 p.m. is the premiere screening of the GYGO (Get Your Gravel On) Documentary at the Visitor Center.

Saturday, November 15 – The Heart of the Weekend

Saturday morning launches with something entirely unique to BorderLands Gravel: the International Parade Lap. Before the racing begins, riders will cross the border into Agua Prieta, Mexico, for a celebratory loop through town before returning to the start line. It is a powerful symbol of connection, a ride that highlights unity between two communities.

Then comes the main event: BorderLands Gravel. Cyclists will take on challenging routes across rugged desert terrain, weaving past historic landmarks, wildlife refuges, and the beauty of the borderlands.

The day also features the BorderLands Gravel Run/Walk. Beginning at 9:00 a.m., this free 3.25 km community event welcomes locals, friends, and family. Limited to 100 participants, the run provides bibs, timing chips, and swag bags so that everyone can feel part of the weekend.

Meanwhile, the historic Gadsden Hotel becomes a hub of culture and connection. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Mercado, hosted by the Arizona Border Alliance, brings together local vendors, nonprofits, artists, farmers, and community organizations. It is a lively and welcoming space that highlights the creativity and resilience of the region.

Just up the road, the 6th Annual Native American Festival adds another layer to the weekend. With traditional music, dance, storytelling, and community gathering, the festival celebrates Native heritage and culture. It is an invitation to pause, listen, and learn about the deep roots of this land.

By evening, racers and visitors will gather again at Art Car World for awards and celebration.

Sunday, November 16 – Beyond the Race

The weekend continues on Sunday with an optional guided tour of Agua Prieta led by veteran journalist and longtime resident Keoki Skinner. This is a rare chance to see life on the other side of the border through the eyes of someone who has spent nearly four decades telling its stories.

Agua Prieta is a city of resilience, where U.S. and Mexican cultures meet and blend in ways both complicated and beautiful. For those curious about the realities of border life, the tour offers an honest and memorable perspective.

A Weekend to Remember

BorderLands Gravel stands as the anchor, and the weekend reflects the history, culture, and community of Douglas. Friends and family can experience the festivals, markets, and gatherings, while cyclists take on a course that defines adventure in the borderlands.

This November, come to Douglas to race, explore, and celebrate. Leave with an experience rooted in the landscapes and stories of the borderlands.

Register now for BorderLands Gravel, the International Parade Laps, and the Run/Walk and make Douglas, Arizona, your destination for adventure, culture, and connection.