Grassroots to Greatness: Miguel Crawford on the Low Gap race, the Grasshopper Adventure Series, and Building Community in Mountain Biking
Mountain biking isn’t just about the trails—it’s about the people, the community, and the shared experiences like the Low Gap race that push us to new limits. Few embody this spirit more than Miguel Crawford, the founder of the Grasshopper Adventure Series, which has been drawing cyclists to Northern California’s rugged terrain since 1998.
The Origins of The Grasshoppers
We had the chance to sit down with Miguel Crawford, founder of the Grasshopper Adventure Series, after the latest installment of the series, the Low Gap race, which took place on Sunday, January 26th. With over 500 riders, including a strong female presence and a thriving mentorship program, this event was more than just a race—it was a testament to how cycling can bring people together, empower riders of all levels, and foster a supportive community.
There was no official structure at first—just phone calls to friends from Santa Cruz, Humboldt, Napa, and Sonoma. I told them, “Hey, let’s go ride some insane routes, no waiting or regrouping, just pure adventure.” – Miguel Crawford
Liz Donahey: So, let’s start at the beginning. What inspired you to create the Grasshopper Adventure Series?
Miguel Crawford: Yeah, it’s been quite an evolution. Back in 1998, I just wanted to create something that brought people together for epic, challenging rides—but in a way that felt different from a traditional race. There was no official structure at first—just phone calls to friends from Santa Cruz, Humboldt, Napa, and Sonoma. I told them, “Hey, let’s go ride some insane routes, no waiting or regrouping, just pure adventure.”
At the time, gravel bikes didn’t exist, so we modified road and mountain bikes to handle the mixed terrain. The idea was to push ourselves, explore, and test our limits without the constraints of official race categories or permits. And after, we’d all head to the Union Hotel for pizza and beers. That’s how it all started.
Why “Grasshopper”?
Liz Donahey: Why the name “Grasshopper”?
Miguel Crawford: That came from my friend John Ganella, who gave me the nickname. Later, it evolved from the Kung Fu TV series—you know, David Carradine’s character, who was always learning and growing. And it also ties into the fable of the Ant and the Grasshopper—where the grasshopper is playing around while the ants are busy preparing for winter. I liked the idea of adventure and play, which has always been at the heart of the series.
