There are 3 route options so something for various levels of ability and an e-bike option too. If you are unsure which route is for you, speak to one of our team. 

65km - A perfect first gravel event or one for those wanting an easier day. The 65km route tackles some of the early stages of the longer routes so a chance to experience the full event over a shorter distance.

130km - A satisfying day out that follows much of the 200 route — a proper gravel challenge without the full distance.

200km - A real test of stamina, skill and self-reliance. Be prepared for a long day in the saddle as you tackle one of the most iconic routes on the gravel scene.

All distances are on well surfaced hard packed gravel access roads.

The trails are wide and typical of the access roads found in commercial forest. Surfaces can vary, but are predominantly fast rolling on small or smooth gravel.

Riders should be prepared to be in remote terrain for large sections of the route. Our compulsory kit list outlines what we consider to be the basic requirements for an event of this nature.

All routes may be subject to change depending on weather and timber harvesting.

The route is suitable for any off-road bike with 33c or larger tyres – preferable with an off-road tread. Whilst the course is designed to favour gravel bikes, a hardtail MTB or similar will be fine.

The required kit is applicable to all distances. All riders must carry these items at all times:

• Emergency Whistle
• Survival blanket
• Waterproof jacket (unless you are wearing it – as a minimum taped or welded seams)
• Spare warm hat or buff type head covering
• Spare thermal top
• Spare inner tube and tyre levers
• Pump
• Multitool
• Front light, at least 200 lumens or suitable for navigation and riding in the dark with at least a 2hr burn time (not applicable to 65km distance)
• Rear light with a flashing mode
• Mobile phone
• Food for the duration of the event
• Ability to carry at least 1.5 litres of water

Carrying this minimal amount of kit helps to ensure that you can keep warm in the event of having to stop or have spare kit if the weather changes.

The event HQ will be at Kielder Castle Forest Park Centre, Kielder, Hexham, Northumberland NE48 1ER.

There are the following feed stations available along the routes. 

Each feed station will aim to provide:

• Water
• Energy Drink
• Some snack foods such as bananas, wrapped cake bars, hot drinks (feed 2) etc
• The feed stations will also allow access to limited mechanical support.

The food provided by these feed stations should not be a riders only form of support and each rider should aim to carry enough food to complete the full event.

For 2027 there is one cut-off for the 130km route and two cut-offs for the 200km route.

• Cut-off 1 (37km Kielder Dam) - 11:45 for 130km and 200km riders
• Cut-off 2 (139km Forest Drive) - 17:45 for 200km riders

The organisers reserve the right to apply an optional cut-off on the final leg for anyone unlikely to make the course closure at 10:30pm.

Kielder is a remote village with few services (fuel station with local shop), so please pack everything you need.

The event village will offer a full range of catering; bar; coffee barista; brand stalls; event support; showers; toilets and fresh water.

Please also note Kielder has very limited mobile signal.

There are various options for accommodation from camping, to glamping, to hostels and hotels located nearby. 

We recommend booking any accommodation early as they book up fast. 

Please ensure you check travelling times from your accommodation to the start to ensure you are there in plenty of time to get ready!

Full timetable available early 2027.

• Friday: Registration; Gravel Expo; Social Rides; Demos; food and bar; brand activations
• Saturday: Registration; Event day; Gravel Expo; food and bar; finishers celebrations
• Sunday: Social Rides

Final programme details, event timings, and the full schedule for Dirty Reiver 2027 will be added once the official information is confirmed.