Aether's Traverse

Aether's Traverse

Aether's Traverse is a point-to-point gravel grinder that starts in Sandpoint, Idaho, and ends on top of Schweitzer Mountain Resort at the Sky House. The 35-mile route is predominantly on gravel roads and includes approximately 6,200 feet of elevation gain.

This is a charity event, proceeds of which are donated to Pend O'reille Pedalers and KRFY - Panhandle Community Radio. Aether's Traverse is the last of three annual events in the Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series.

Schedule

• Friday, August 14, 2026: Matchwood Brewing, 513 Oak Street, Sandpoint, Idaho · 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Registration/Packet Pick up
• Saturday, August 15, 2026: Start/Finish area, 10857 Baldy Mountain Road, Sandpoint, Idaho
  • 6:30 AM - 7:30 AM: Last-minute Registration/Packet Pick up
  • 7:45 AM: Pre-Ride Meeting
  • 8:00 AM: Ride Starts
  • 12:00 PM: Post-ride Celebration, food and drink, and Awards at Sky House

Registration Includes:

• Event participation and on-course support
• Participation swag
• Post-ride meal and drink
• Post-ride raffle
• Award ceremony and podium presentations

Rules

• Electronic chip timing will be used for this event. Each rider will be issued a number plate with a uniquely-coded electronic chip that must be attached to the rider’s bicycle for the duration of the ride.
• Participants are responsible for their own mechanical repairs and should provide their own nutrition and hydration.
• Riders are not allowed to receive mechanical or nutritional assistance from unauthorized moving or stationary vehicles or persons.
• The route includes a rest/aid station where hydration and energy supplements will be available, and riders can seek first aid if needed.
• Event support vehicles capable of assistance, including minor mechanical repairs, will follow the riders.
• If a bicycle becomes unrideable, support vehicles will be available to transport riders and bicycles back to the finish line or to the on-course aid station.
• Riders must finish the route on the same bicycle they start with and are not allowed to switch to alternate bicycles anywhere along the route.
• All riders are required to wear helmets and follow State of Idaho traffic laws for bicycles.
• Participants may ride any style of bicycle; however, motorized bicycles, including eBikes, and bikes with aero bars are not allowed.
• A large percentage of the route is on gravel or dirt roads; bicycles with traction tires are recommended. Traditional road bikes are not recommended.
• The ride will begin as a neutral start at a controlled speed, after which riders are free to ride at their desired pace.
• The route will be marked with directional arrows, as needed, at road changes and intersections. Select road intersections will be controlled by volunteer flaggers wearing high-visibility vests.
• Riders shall ride single file when vehicular traffic is encountered for safety reasons and to not unduly obstruct vehicular traffic.

Idaho Panhandle Gravel Series Points

Points toward the IPGS will be awarded as follows:

More Info at Panhandle Gravel