COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sept. 29, 2025) – Pelotonia will host its third annual Gravel Day on Saturday, October 4, at Snow Fork Event Center in Nelsonville, Ohio. More than 530 participants, 200 Volunteers and countless Spectators are expected to rally together at the event to raise funds for innovative cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.  

Gravel Day offers adventurous, challenging cycling experiences on Southeast Ohio’s scenic gravel roads, as well as a new, custom-designed trail running and hiking course for 2025. 

Gravel Day has continued to grow since it was introduced in 2023. Pelotonia expects a record number of participants this year, more than doubling its total participant count from 225 Riders in 2024. The Trail Run/Hike — Pelotonia’s first non-cycling experience — will see about 350 Runners and Hikers, expanding the event to engage new audiences in the Pelotonia mission. 

“Gravel Day has become one of my favorite weekends of the year. I’m thrilled to get back on my gravel bike, and I’m inspired by the energy surrounding the new Trail Run/Hike,” said Joe Apgar, Pelotonia CEO and cancer survivor. “Pelotonia events are a celebration of resilience and unity, driven by our mission. Gravel Day is no exception. It combines physical challenge and outdoor adventure with the power of community rallying to advance groundbreaking research at Ohio State. Together, we’re making a real impact for cancer patients today and for the future.” 

 

Cycling Routes and Trail Run/Hike Course 

Gravel Day routes include intense climbs as Riders cycle through Athens County, with elevation gains ranging from 900 to 4,200 feet per route. Departing at staggered start times on Saturday morning, Riders will embark on 11-, 25-, and 48-mile routes starting and finishing at Snow Fork Event Center. Each cycling route highlights Southeast Ohio’s rolling hills and unpaved roads, with an optional extension along the Baileys Trail System, a network of single-track trails in the Appalachian foothills. 

Designed by Trail Run/Hike Consultant and Course Designer Samuel Hartman, participants in the inaugural Trail Run/Hike will enjoy a 3.5-mile route that starts with double-track trails surrounded by scenic forests and streams, then uses Wayne National Forest to connect to Baileys Trail System’s single-track trail, before ending back at Snow Fork Event Center. Runners and Hikers can begin the route any time between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., with the freedom to complete multiple laps for added distance. Riders can also participate in both; opting to add the Trail Run/Hike after they complete their selected cycling route.  

Finish line celebrations are open to participants and guests to enjoy food, beverages, photo opportunities, live music, and more. Beginning at 10:30 a.m., musical entertainment on the Gravel Day stage will include: Maria Carrelli, Jeremy Short, Buffalo Wabs & The Price Hill Hustle and Corduroy Brown. 

Spectators are encouraged to join the send-off and finish line celebrations to cheer on Gravel Day Riders, Runners, and Hikers throughout the day on Saturday. Details for spectators, including driving directions and parking information for Snow Fork Event Center, are available at pelotonia.org/cheer. 

  

Friday Night Community Gathering & Camping: October 3 

For the second year, Pelotonia will host participants and guests to kick off the weekend experience with the Friday Night Community Gathering on Friday, October 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Snow Fork Event Center. The evening will feature music from Hocking River Duo, as well as food, drinks and s’mores by the campfire.  

 

Volunteers Make Pelotonia Events Possible 

Gravel Day would not be possible without the valuable time and hard work of more than 200 Pelotonia Volunteers who serve in a variety of critical roles. Volunteers offer medical and first aid services, provide mechanical support, coordinate bike management, run merchandise sales, support rest stops along the routes and so much more.    

 

Registration and Fundraising Continues for Pelotonia 2025 

Registration for Gravel Day Riders, Runners and Hikers, and Volunteers, as well as Challengers, is still open at pelotonia.org/register. 

Fundraising for all Pelotonia 2025 participants continues through October 15.  

 

To learn about the impact of Pelotonia dollars on accelerating innovative cancer research, please visit pelotonia.org.