2017 Bean Lake Gravel Challenge

Post Event:

Pictures from today's ride (added Dean Bushnell photos): 2017 Bean Lake Gravel Challenge Pictures

We had a good size group today which filled the parking lot.  Next year we will move the start location to allow for more parking.  Sorry for any inconvenience. 

Updated 02/02/07:  Course map added - Garmin file and route sheet.  

What: Bean Lake Gravel Challenge
When: Sunday February 5, 2017, 9:00 am
Where: Weston, MO - Meet at the Weston Bluffs Trail head
Why: Come enjoy a scenic and challenging ride to one of the few remaining marshes left in the Missouri River Floodplain.

 Last years ride was held on snow packed trails.

A little history on Bean Lake...Bean Lake  in a section of the Little Bean Marsh Conservation Area. The 400 acre oxbow is home to migrating waterfowl and shorebirds during spring and fall. Amazingly, more than 130 species of birds have been seen here though the number of birds depends on the water level. There is half a mile of disabled accessible trail that is perfect for hiking with families and friends. This leads to a viewing platform over the freshwater marsh. Another 200 yard trail leads to a viewing blind overlooking Cottonwood Slough. 

The main trail head only has room for about 25 vehicles.  If that lot fills up there is additional parking on Beverly Drive.  Note: no facilities are available at the trail head (plenty of woods however...).
 
The main route is just under 40 miles in length. Course is 95% gravel.  A combination of scenic trail along the Weston Bluffs Trail and the Missouri River.  Hills?  Yes there will be some hills and some of the finest gravel around.  You will complete a loop around Bean Lake.

 Course map: Route sheet above.  Garmin below file below.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/14357700

  

Disclaimer for the Bean Lake Gravel Challenge:
You are 100% responsible for yourself! You are totally on your own.  There are no rider services.  There is no support. If you choose to participate, you agree to taking full responsibility for what happens to you out on the course.  Please have someone you can call to come get you in the case of emergency, fatigue, freezing weather or bike failure.