Scratch Ankle Gravel 2025

Get ready for the ultimate endurance challenge with Scratch Ankle XL!

This ultra-distance gravel ride takes cyclists on an epic 200-mile loop through the breathtaking landscapes of Blackwater River State Forest in Florida and Conecuh National Forest in Alabama. Known for its rugged remoteness and natural beauty, the route offers a true test of endurance, grit, and adventure.

The journey begins and ends at Bear Lake in Milton, Florida, immersing riders in one of the most ecologically significant regions in the Southeastern United States. Blackwater River State Forest, named for the river that originates in Alabama and flows into Blackwater Bay in Florida, boasts diverse ecosystems that remain largely untouched. Combined with Conecuh National Forest to the north and Eglin Air Force Base to the south, the area forms the largest contiguous longleaf pine/wiregrass ecosystem in the world, a vital habitat for rare and endangered species.

Cyclists will traverse diverse terrain, including gently rolling hills, winding watercourses, and expansive floodplains. Along the way, riders will pass through forests of longleaf pine, scrub oak, swamp hardwood, and Atlantic white cedar. Streams such as the Blackwater River, Juniper Creek, Coldwater Creek, and Sweetwater Creek wind through the landscape, offering scenic views and refreshing stops.

Live Tracking

This remote and challenging route highlights the natural beauty of the region, with unique features like pitcher plant bogs that host a variety of carnivorous plants, including sundews, butterworts, and the namesake pitcher plants. The forest teems with biodiversity, offering a rare glimpse into ecosystems that once spanned millions of acres across the Southeastern Coastal Plain.

Scratch Ankle XL is more than a ride—it’s a journey into the heart of untouched wilderness. The rugged terrain, sandy trails, and creek crossings make this a demanding experience that rewards those with the grit to take it on.

Registration for Scratch Ankle XL supports local mountain bike organizations, including Pensacola Off-Road Cyclists (P.O.R.C.) and the Gulf Coast Youth Mountain Bike Association. Funds raised help maintain and expand trails, foster youth programs, and promote outdoor recreation in the region.

For more information and to register, visit scratchanklegravel.com.

Don’t miss your chance to embark on this unforgettable adventure! Join us for Scratch Ankle XL and discover the magic of Blackwater River State Forest and Conecuh National Forest, where the journey is as rewarding as the destination.