Now in its second year on the GTC list, this one mile segment is the first challenging section of the race. With an average grade of 2.5% and sections punching up to 10%, grab your climbing shoes and enjoy a breathless view from the top of Bruce's Butte (remember to watch for goatheads!)

We figured there's no better starting line than a cattle guard and a sign declaring "cattle at large"! This second segment starts about midway into the race route. Hit the grate, then hit the hammer for this 2 mile rolling segment through the open range of the Grand River Grassland's "Pasture 7". Cruise and enjoy the open prairie views, but don't miss the turn at the end!

This segment puts the grind in gravel grinder. Infamous for being an absolute beast, 4 mile road is often what decides the race winner... so save a little steam for this one. Pro tip: Don't let the name fool you; 4 mile road is actually 10.84 miles long, although... it does feel longer. There is a SILVER LINING: once you get through it, you're only 4 paved miles from town!