UNBOUND
3 June 2027 · Emporia, Kansas, USA
About
UNBOUND Gravel is one of the world’s most prestigious gravel cycling events, bringing thousands of riders to Emporia, Kansas, for a weekend of racing and riding through the Flint Hills.
Organised by Life Time, UNBOUND has grown from an event with just 34 participants in 2006 into an internationally recognised fixture on the gravel racing calendar.
The event is renowned for its demanding terrain, exposed prairie landscapes and unpredictable conditions. Riders tackle the gravel roads of eastern Kansas across five distances, ranging from an accessible 25-mile ride to the formidable 350-mile XL ultra-endurance race.
At the heart of UNBOUND is the flagship 200-mile race, which attracts elite gravel racers alongside amateur riders seeking one of cycling’s most celebrated endurance challenges.
The four-day event also includes the All Things Gravel Expo, bringing together cycling brands, athletes and the wider gravel community.
Registration
2027 Registration Ballot Opens: Sunday 1 November 2026
Registration for UNBOUND Gravel 2027 is managed through a random-selection ballot due to high demand.
Key dates:
- Ballot opens: 1 November 2026, 10:00 AM Central Time
- Ballot closes: 15 November 2026, 11:59 PM Central Time
- Ballot results announced: 21 November 2026
The ballot covers all five distances: XL, 200, 100, 50 and 25 miles.
Applying to the ballot is free. Applicants must provide payment details, but entry fees are charged only if they are selected.
Only one ballot application is permitted per person.
Alternative entry opportunities include volunteering, charity places, official training camp packages and qualifying events.
2027 entry fees have not yet been published.
Routes & Races
Note: The organiser has not yet published the detailed 2027 courses, elevation figures or route formats.
UNBOUND Gravel XL
Distance: Approx. 350 miles (563 km) · Elevation: Not published for 2027 · Terrain: Remote Flint Hills gravel roads, rough surfaces and exposed prairie · Route Format: Not confirmed for 2027
The ultimate UNBOUND endurance challenge, taking riders on a self-supported, overnight journey through the Flint Hills.
UNBOUND Gravel 200
Distance: Approx. 200 miles (322 km) · Elevation: Not published for 2027 · Terrain: Flint Hills gravel roads, rolling prairie and exposed rural tracks · Route Format: Not confirmed for 2027
The flagship UNBOUND race is one of the most prestigious challenges in gravel cycling. Riders face a demanding combination of distance, rugged gravel surfaces and unpredictable Kansas weather.
UNBOUND Gravel 100
Distance: Approx. 100 miles (161 km) · Elevation: Not published for 2027 · Terrain: Flint Hills gravel roads, rolling prairie and rural tracks · Route Format: Not confirmed for 2027
A substantial gravel endurance challenge offering riders the opportunity to experience the Flint Hills and UNBOUND’s distinctive racing atmosphere over a shorter distance than the flagship 200-mile event.
UNBOUND Gravel 50
Distance: Approx. 50 miles (80 km) · Elevation: Not published for 2027 · Terrain: Flint Hills gravel roads, rolling countryside and rural tracks · Route Format: Not confirmed for 2027
A shorter gravel challenge offering riders an introduction to the demanding terrain and atmosphere of UNBOUND, while remaining accessible to a broader range of cycling abilities.
UNBOUND Gravel 25
Distance: Approx. 25 miles (40 km) · Elevation: Not published for 2027 · Terrain: Gravel roads and rolling countryside around Emporia · Route Format: Not confirmed for 2027
The shortest UNBOUND distance provides an introduction to gravel riding in the Flint Hills and the atmosphere of one of the world’s most celebrated gravel events.
Practical Information
2027 route details: The organiser has confirmed that the 2027 routes are still being prepared. Detailed route maps, elevation profiles and course information will be published closer to the event.
2027 event schedule: The full programme has not yet been published.
Event location: Emporia, Kansas, USA.
Organiser: Life Time.
