November 14 is almost here. Are you ready for BorderLands Gravel?
In just over two weeks, gravel cyclists from across Arizona and beyond will descend on Douglas for the third edition of BorderLands Gravel.
We’re looking forward to welcoming returning riders, meeting those experiencing the borderlands for the first time, and celebrating another year of gravel cycling in southeastern Arizona.
But before you roll up to the starting line, there’s some planning to do.
From reviewing the courses and event schedule to making lodging arrangements and understanding what makes this year’s Arizona Gravel Championship special, we’ve pulled together everything you need to know to get ready for race weekend.
Consider this your starting point for making the most of your BorderLands Gravel experience.
Start With the Official Event Guide
If there’s one resource we encourage every participant to review before arriving in Douglas, it’s our official Event Guide.
BorderLands Gravel isn’t your typical gravel race. Our courses take riders deep into the remote desert landscape along the U.S.-Mexico border, where self-reliance and preparation are essential.
The Event Guide covers important information about what to expect, including:
Race rules and rider responsibilities
Aid station locations and support
Safety protocols and course expectations
Cutoff times and sweep procedures
Mechanical support and emergency considerations
While we’ll have dedicated volunteers, aid stations, and support crews throughout the event, riders should arrive prepared to handle the challenges of riding in remote terrain.
That means carrying appropriate tools, spare parts, nutrition, hydration, and anything else you might need along the way.
Our goal is simple: We want everyone to have an incredible experience and return safely to Douglas.
Know the Race Weekend Schedule
BorderLands Gravel is a weekend built around cycling, community, and experiencing Douglas.
The festivities begin Friday, November 13, with packet pickup and opportunities to connect with fellow participants.
Here’s a quick look at some of the important times to remember.
Friday, November 13
Noon to 6:00 p.m. | Rider packet pickup at Raul Castro Park
6:15 p.m. | Mandatory rider meeting
We strongly encourage participants to arrive Friday, get checked in, attend the rider meeting, and spend some time exploring Douglas.
Saturday, November 14
6:00 to 7:00 a.m. | Late packet pickup
6:15 a.m. | International Parade Lap participants meet at the Douglas Port of Entry
8:00 a.m. | Long Course start
8:10 a.m. | Medium Course start
8:25 a.m. | Short Course and E-Bike start
Throughout the day, Raul Castro Park will serve as the gathering place for food, music, vendors, awards, and post-race celebrations.
Awards ceremonies are planned throughout the afternoon, including recognition of the Arizona Gravel Champions.
Be sure to review the complete schedule before arriving, as details and times may be updated.
Get Familiar With Your Course
Let’s talk gravel.
One of the defining characteristics of BorderLands Gravel is the terrain itself.
Our routes take riders onto the historic Geronimo Trail Road and through the rugged landscapes of southeastern Arizona. Expect wide-open desert scenery, long stretches of remote gravel, and views that make this region unlike anywhere else. The gravel out here is raw, and conditions can vary throughout the course. That’s part of what makes racing in the borderlands such a memorable experience.
For 2026, we’re offering three course distances, each providing a different way to experience the region.
Whether you’ve registered for the Short, Medium, or Long Course, now is the time to familiarize yourself with the route. We recommend reviewing the course maps, downloading the appropriate GPS file, and making sure your navigation device is ready. Pay attention to mileage, elevation, aid station locations, and the overall demands of your chosen route.
Make Your Plans for Staying in Douglas
If you haven’t already made lodging arrangements, now is the time.
One of our goals with BorderLands Gravel has always been to introduce more people to Douglas and the surrounding communities of Cochise County.
For many participants, race weekend will be their first opportunity to experience this corner of Arizona. And there’s much more to discover than gravel roads. Douglas has a fascinating history, a vibrant borderlands culture, historic architecture, local art, and some outstanding Mexican food.
The historic Gadsden Hotel is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and well worth visiting, whether you’re staying there or simply stopping by. We encourage riders to make a weekend out of their visit. Arrive early, explore the community, support local businesses, and enjoy everything Douglas has to offer.
BorderLands Gravel exists because of the tremendous support we receive from the City of Douglas, Cochise County, local businesses, and community partners.
One of the best ways to show appreciation is by spending time in the community and supporting the people who help make this event possible.
The Arizona Gravel Championship Is on the Line
This year’s BorderLands Gravel has an added element of competition.
We’re hosting the Arizona Gravel Championship, giving riders the opportunity to compete for a state title on the gravel roads of southeastern Arizona.
This is a one-day competition. One race. One opportunity to become an Arizona Gravel Champion.
Championship categories will be contested across the Long and Medium Courses, with age-group divisions designed to create meaningful competition for riders of different ages and experience levels.
The Long Course hosts the standard adult championship categories, while the Medium Course includes designated categories for younger, collegiate, and older riders.
Don’t Forget the International Parade Lap
There’s one more experience we want to highlight, and it’s something you won’t find at most gravel races.
Before the official race begins Saturday morning, a limited group of participants will have the opportunity to ride their bikes across the international border into Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico.
Our International Parade Lap brings cyclists from both countries together for a guided ride through Agua Prieta before returning to Douglas.
It’s not a race. There are no podiums or finishing times. Instead, it’s an opportunity to celebrate the unique relationship between two neighboring communities and experience the borderlands from a different perspective.
Participants will meet at the Douglas Port of Entry at 6:15 a.m. on Saturday, November 14.
A passport is recommended, and participation is limited to 70 riders.
For those who have never experienced Agua Prieta, this is an opportunity to see another side of the region that makes BorderLands Gravel so special.
See You in Douglas!
The countdown is on.
In just over two weeks, we’ll gather in Douglas for another unforgettable weekend of gravel cycling, community, and adventure. Take some time over the next couple of weeks to review the event information, prepare your bike, finalize your travel arrangements, and get ready for the experience ahead.
And if you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time to join us.
November 14, 2026. Douglas, Arizona.
The borderlands are calling.
Get Your Gravel On!
