The route planning started with looking at a locally famous jeep road called Red Grade, which is a grueling climb that results in fantastic views. Climbing 3,000 feet in about 7 miles provides quite a challenged and John and Jordan put their heads together to build an event around it. Sheridan Wyoming and the surrounding areas have a massive amount of gravel roads that provide the perfect setting for the 100 miles up Red Grade, as well as the 3 other courses the Dead Swede offers. All of the courses offer wonderful riding along rolling hills with ranches and open farmland.

In the Dead Swede’s first year, 150 riders showed up for the event and the organizers knew they were on to something special. Over the next few years, the event has grown to bring in over 600+ riders, their friends, and their families. The Dead Swede is more of a full-fledged gravel event than just a race or ride. There are things to do while people wait for their riders to finish. During the race at the start/finish line, there is food, beer, and music along with things to keep the kids busy. There is also a lot to do in and around Sheridan if folks decide to travel distances to participate in the festivities.

The Dead Swede’s goal is to elevate the love of cycling by offering a first-class experience riding through some of the most beautiful areas of the country. We strive to educate people about cycling while introducing family and kids to the sport of gravel cycling. This event attracts highly competitive racers to recreational riders and everyone in between. Riders come from all over the country to have the privilege to participate in the Dead Swede. The event is not just about the watts someone puts down but it also encompasses the full skillset of the rider with some singletrack (for the 100-mile event), technical climbs, and fast descents.