Gravel Ride, Madras, 21.5 miles, 1,650 feet of gain

Come ride Experimental Rattlesnake with us!
Smooth gravel, big views, and good company.

This scenic ride through Central Oregon’s high desert winds past active farms, ranchlands, and open grasslands, following some of the canals that irrigate the region. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Mt. Jefferson—Oregon’s second-highest peak—along with Grizzly Mountain and Gray Butte.

We’re rolling out on the 21.4-mile route which includes a short section that doesn't quite meet our "All Access" criteria. This is the "extended" version in the "Notes and Options" tab for Dirty Freehub route description labeled Experimental Rattlesnake (Long v1.0). Want something a little shorter that meets the All Access criteria? Simply remain on the All Access version which will have you rejoin us for the back half of the loop - choose your own adventure!

The vibe:

• We'll roll at the posted time.
• This is a social ride—think less hammerfest and more a steady, brisk pace, with plenty of chances to chat and regroup.
• We’ll naturally spread out a bit, but may bring it back together here and there with a planned regroup at the Gray Butte Cemetery
• Bonus points to anyone that actually SEES the sign, I keep missing it!

A quick reality check:
This is not a supported or no-drop ride—come ready to roll self-sufficient and confident in navigating the route.

That means:
• Route downloaded and ready to go
• Comfortable finding your way if things stretch out
• Flat kit, fuel, hydration—your usual ride essentials

Some Deets:

• If the weather looks horrible, assume we’ll cancel. I'll post as such on Meetup so you’re not guessing.
• About Me: If I’m a new face to you, I hope to be a familiar one soon. You can learn a bit more about me here.
• I rode the All Access version of this route on 03/21/26 and found the ride guide to be an accurate representation of my experience.

Got questions? Drop them on Meetup ahead of time. Day-of, text or call me at 206-669-0242—I’m happy to help!

To participate:
1. You must be registered for the event and as such agree to the Meetup and BACE rules. These include one’s concurrence that cycling can be dangerous and cause serious bodily injury or even death. The organizers of this group and its members will not be held responsible for the actions of any participant at any event.
2. Please do not bring pets.
3. You must wear a helmet.
4. You must be an adult.
5. You must be self-sufficient.
Liability Waiver
By registering for this event, you agree to the following liability waiver.
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Dirty Freehub Group Ride Waiver
Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, and Assumption of Risk Agreement
(Version 1.2 / Dated August 2, 2025)
By registering for any organized group bike ride led by Dirty Freehub through [[[MeetUp.com](http://meetup.com/)](http://meetup.com/)](http://meetup.com/) (or any other registration platform used by Dirty Freehub), you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to the following terms and conditions. Participation in these rides is conditional upon agreement to this waiver.
1. Acknowledgment of Risk
I understand and acknowledge that participating in a group bike ride organized by Dirty Freehub involves inherent risks. These risks include, but are not limited to, collisions with other cyclists, vehicles, pedestrians, or objects; accidents caused by road hazards, gravel, weather conditions, wildlife, and mechanical failures; as well as risks associated with riding in remote areas with limited access to emergency services. Such risks can result in serious injury or death.
2. Assumption of Risk
By registering for the ride, I voluntarily and knowingly assume all risks associated with my participation, including those resulting from the actions or negligence of other riders, third parties, or environmental conditions. I understand that it is my responsibility to ride safely, wear appropriate safety gear, and maintain my bicycle in proper working condition.
3. Release of Liability
I hereby release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless Dirty Freehub, its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, agents, and any affiliated individuals or organizations (collectively referred to as "Dirty Freehub") from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses, including but not limited to personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death, arising out of or in connection with my participation in the group ride.
4. Indemnification
I agree to indemnify and hold Dirty Freehub harmless from any and all claims, causes of action, damages, judgments, costs, or expenses, including attorney’s fees, that may arise as a result of my participation in the group ride or from any breach of this agreement.
5. Medical Treatment
I understand that Dirty Freehub does not provide medical services, supervision, or insurance coverage for participants. In the event of an injury, I consent to receiving medical treatment deemed necessary by emergency personnel and agree to be financially responsible for any costs associated with such treatment.
6. Fitness to Participate
I declare that I am physically fit and capable of participating in the group ride. I confirm that I will ride within my abilities, follow all traffic laws, and adhere to any instructions or safety guidelines provided by Dirty Freehub ride leaders.
7. Personal Responsibility
I understand that I am solely responsible for my actions during the group ride, including my own route decisions, hydration, nutrition, and mechanical preparedness. I acknowledge that participation is at my own risk.
8. Binding Agreement
I understand that by registering for a Dirty Freehub group ride through [[[MeetUp.com,](http://meetup.com,/)](http://meetup.com,/)](http://meetup.com,/) this waiver and release is binding upon myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns. It is recommended that you print and retain a copy of this waiver for your records.