02/16/2026
For the longest of our 2026 bike routes -- The Ponderosa!
The route is named after the towering Pinus Ponderosa Scopulorum that dominates the deep sandstone canyons and steep hillsides of the Wildcat Hills.
The Ponderosa route begins with a prologue of sorts through burgeoning ag land peppered with sprouting fields of corn, beans, and wheat. Payment for the free speed of the first 20 miles hits like a brick wall as the first major climb of the day is steep, loose, and littered with exposed sandstone boulders. Once that's over, veteran Robidoux riders are into familiar territory as they ascend Hackberry road toward aid station # 2.
The route returns via Wright's Gap, reversing the direction over the formidable pass that's been seen in previous years' routes. Once riders return to the Gering Valley, they traverse the base of the Wildcat Hills, making their way to the infamous Carter Canyon climb, where grades approach 17% in spots. The effort is quickly rewarded with a thrilling descent from Robidoux Pass.
Finally, after a deceiving climb over Rifle Site Pass, the final stretch back into town through Scotts Bluff National Monument via Mitchell Pass offers some sweet relief back to the amphitheater where tunes, brews, and foods await!
Register now https://runsignup.com/Race/NE/Gering/RobidouxRendezvous!
