Feature Photo Credit: Chris Culver
The 2025 Huffmaster Hopper, a standout event and the second in the Grasshopper Adventure Series, saw women riders take on the challenge with strength, determination, and skill. Held yesterday on February 22 in Maxwell, California, the race brought together cyclists of all backgrounds to tackle rugged gravel roads, steep climbs, and fast descents. While the event is open to all, this year’s edition showcased the growing presence and impact of women in competitive gravel racing.
About the Huffmaster
The Huffmaster Hopper is an annual gravel cycling race offering women riders two course options: 59 miles or 89 miles. With a mix of gravel and pavement, the route features rolling terrain and fast, open roads—making it an exciting challenge with less climbing than a typical Hopper event. Nestled between Highway 5 and the Mendocino National Forest, this race is the perfect opportunity for women to push their limits, embrace the adventure, and ride strong in a supportive cycling community.
Photo Credit: Ana PimslerRiding to the Challenge
Riders had two course options: an 89-mile long route and a 59-mile short course. Both featured a mix of pavement and gravel, with the long course offering 25 miles of rough terrain. One of the most demanding sections came early on the short course, with a climb from 550 to 1,800 feet between miles 14 and 17.5—pushing riders to their limits before rewarding them with sweeping descents and open roads.
Photo Credit: Christine BarkerWomen competitors in both distances displayed impressive endurance and technical ability, proving that the sport continues to evolve with a strong female presence. Events like the Huffmaster Hopper provide an important platform for women cyclists, offering not only a competitive space but also a community that supports and inspires one another.
More Than a Race: A Community of Women Riders
One of the highlights of the Huffmaster Hopper wasn’t just the results but the atmosphere of camaraderie. Women riders, from seasoned pros to first-time racers, shared encouragement on the course, proving that these events are about more than just speed—they’re about lifting each other up, challenging personal limits, and celebrating every finish line.
As women’s participation in gravel and mountain biking events continues to grow, the Huffmaster Hopper stands as an example of how inclusive and empowering these races can be. With each event, more women are showing up, proving that they belong on the start line, in the lead pack, and on the podium.
Photo Credit: Ana PimslerLooking Ahead
With the 2025 race in the books, excitement is already building for next year’s edition. The Huffmaster Hopper continues to be an essential stop for any woman looking to test her skills on a tough yet rewarding course. Whether you’re a seasoned gravel racer or looking to enter your first big event, this is the kind of race that welcomes and challenges riders in equal measure.
For a full breakdown of results, visit the official race results page. And for women looking to connect with a supportive and growing community in gravel and mountain biking, the future has never looked brighter.
