The Grey Highlands Gran Fondo 2026 returns to Markdale in Ontario, Canada on September 12th. The event spans various distances through the scenic Grey Highlands region, including Walter’s Falls, Bognor, Meaford, Thornbury, and Beaver Valley. Race morning finds participants amid a tranquil setting where rural roads offer picturesque views, perfect for a day of cycling under the sun. Temperatures in September usually hover around 16.8°C with slight variations that can make it feel comfortably warm or slightly cooler depending on the wind and humidity levels. The course is marked by rolling terrain and quiet country paths, ideal for both beginners and seasoned cyclists. The event has been running since its inception and continues to grow each year, attracting hundreds of participants who cycle through challenging yet rewarding routes while supporting local causes such as Brighthshores Markdale Hospital. It’s a significant community event that fosters camaraderie among riders from all skill levels. Course and conditions: The Gran Fondo 26K Breve Fondo, 53K Mezzo Route, 77K Medio Fondo, and the Youth versions of these routes are designed for various abilities. Each course features quiet rural roads with scenic views at every turn. Starting from Markdale, riders can expect to navigate through Walter’s Falls and Beaver Valley before completing their chosen distance. The event offers a 2k Family Ride/ Roll for those looking for something less intense but still enjoyable on two wheels. For the more adventurous cyclists, there are KING OF THE MOUNTAIN or QUEEN OF THE MOUNTAIN contests on both longer routes to add an extra layer of excitement and competition. Weather: Expect temperatures ranging from a minimum of 12.2°C to a maximum of 21.3°C with humidity at about 75.4%. The average wind speed is around 10.6 km/h, which can make the ride feel slightly cooler or warmer depending on your direction and pace.
124K Gran Fondo 124km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$139.72
26K Breve Fondo 26km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$75.89
2K Family Ride 2km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$22.69
53K Mezzo Route 53km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$97.16
77K Medio Fondo 77km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$107.80
Youth 124K Gran Fondo 124km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$138.76
Youth 26K Breve Fondo 26km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$75.37
Youth 77K Medio Fondo 77km • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: CA$107.06
Logistics: Register at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/115851/grey-highlands-gran-fondo-2026. Early bird registration fees are CA$139.72 for the Gran Fondo, with a deadline of August 1st. Bib pickup will be at Markdale Town Hall from September 10th to 11th between 4pm and 8pm; bring your ID and proof of payment. Start location: The race starts and finishes in downtown Markdale on Main Street. Age requirements vary by distance, with minimums for each route ensuring a safe experience for all participants. First-timers should ensure they have the necessary gear such as helmets, water bottles, and cycling shoes to make their day enjoyable. Grey Highlands Gran Fondo 2026 in Markdale, Ontario on September 12th offers an incredible opportunity for cyclists of all levels to explore a beautiful region while contributing to local healthcare.
Races Offered
124K Gran Fondo
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
124km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$139.72
26K Breve Fondo
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
26km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$75.89
2K Family Ride
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
2km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$22.69
53K Mezzo Route
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
53km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$97.16
77K Medio Fondo
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
77km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$107.80
Youth 124K Gran Fondo
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
124km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$138.76
Youth 26K Breve Fondo
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
26km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$75.37
Youth 53K Mezzo Route
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
53km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$96.50
Youth 77K Medio Fondo
Sep 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
77km
terrain
Type —
Cycling
timer
08:00
sell
$107.06
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Markdale.
thermostatTemperature
12.0° / 21.2°
wb_sunnyFeels like
10.1° / 19.7°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 0m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.7 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
10.6 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
75.4%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:02
nightlight
Sunset
19:31
About Markdale
Learn more about the host city, Markdale.
Markdale is a community in the Municipality of Grey Highlands, in Grey County, Ontario, Canada.
