RideR Guide

This guide is your all-in-one prep tool for the Cooler’N Hell Gravel Ride — schedules, rider checklists, maps, and everything you need to take on the grit, grind, and glory of our October backroads adventure.

Make the Ride What You Want

Want to chase the win at the front of the pack? Go for it.

Want to show up in a wild costume and party pace it with friends, then celebrate with a beer at the finish line? That works too.

Helping another rider? That’s not optional — that’s part of the Cooler’N Hell DNA.

Our Simple Rules

We’re not big on rules, but a few matter:

  • Be kind. Wave at everyone — that’s how we roll in North Texas.

  • Meet people. You might leave with a friend for life.

  • Follow the law. Obey stop signs, stay in your lane, and be smart on blind hills and corners.

  • Stay on course. If you miss a turn, go back and correct it.

  • Singletrack etiquette. Passing? Politely say “On your left, please,” and always follow with “Thank you!”

  • Don’t litter. Respect our rural roads and landowners.

  • Checkpoints. If you’re on a team, stop at every checkpoint. No skipping.

  • Smile. You signed up for this — have fun doing it.

Schedule of Events

Friday – Packet Pickup & Expo

  • 10:00 am – 7:00 pm: Packet pickup at Delta Hotels by Marriott Wichita Falls Convention Center

Saturday – Race Day

  • 6:30 am: Coffee & pre-ride vibes at the start line

  • 8:30 am: 100-Mile, 50-Mile, 27-Mile staggered start

  • 12:00 pm: Finish line party begins — food, drinks, music

  • 3:00 pm: Awards & recognitions

*Event times (excluding race start at 8:30 am) are subject to change.

Rider Checklist

Bring it all — and then a little extra:

  • Bike: Tuned up, chain lubed, tubeless sealant fresh, tires 40–45mm+ recommended.

  • Helmet & eyewear: Non-negotiable.

  • Lights: If you think you’ll be out past dusk.

  • Tools & spares: Tubes, levers, multi-tool, chain links, plugs, CO₂, pump, derailleur hanger.

  • Hydration: Bottles, hydration pack, electrolytes.

  • Snacks: Never count on aid stations for your favorites.

  • Clothing: Your kit, your style — aero or denim, you do you.

  • Sunscreen & chamois cream.

  • Positive attitude. The most important piece of gear.

Course Notes

Cooler’N Hell isn’t your average gravel cruise — expect:

  • Narrow rural roads with blind corners.

  • Plenty of open sky, wind-in-your-face miles.

  • Signage at major turns, but GPS navigation is essential. All routes will be on Ride With GPS.

  • Aid stations stocked and spaced to keep you rolling — but be self-sufficient.

We respectfully ask all riders to finish within the course time limit for safety. If you need to drop out, contact the number on the back of your race plate.

Category Awards

Yes, we’ll celebrate the fastest:

  • $10,000 purse for 100-Mile and 50-Mile categories (Men, Women, Masters Men’s, Masters Women’s).

Location & Parking

Start/Finish: 306 Travis Street, Wichita Falls, TX 76301 (Delta Hotels by Marriott Wichita Falls Convention Center)

  • Free parking near the start/finish line — follow signs and volunteer directions.

  • RV and overflow parking available (details in rider email).

  • Please park efficiently so we can fit everyone.

Reminder: No on-course vehicle support except at official aid stations. Respect rural residents and landowners.