40-Plus Years of Riding Fannin County’s Backroads
Autumn in Bonham was established in 1982 by Sally and Bert Simpson, who envisioned a century-mile ride that would put Fannin County on the cycling map. It was one of the first 100-mile rides in Texas. For decades it drew riders from across the state looking for challenging routes through rural North Texas — over the new Bois d’Arc Lake, through the Caddo National Grasslands, past Sam Rayburn historical sites, through small communities and along backroads that don't appear in most itineraries.
The 2026 event is organized by the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce and benefits Community Well Texas. It offers eight routes for every level: the 13-mile family ride out to Lake Bonham works for beginners and kids; the 100-mile century is a legitimate endurance challenge with real elevation changes and gravel crossings. A full fall festival runs alongside the rally in downtown Bonham — vendors, live music, a car show, and food through the day.
Day Schedule
What to Expect on October 3
- 6:00 AM Registration opens at the downtown courthouse square. Rider check-in and packet pickup begins.
- 8:30 AM All rides depart — road, gravel, and family fun routes. Staggered by distance group.
- 8:30 AM+ Festival opens: vendors, food, car show displays, family activities, music stage active.
- All day Car show with awards. Trophies for display categories.
- All day Live music on the courthouse square stage.
- Afternoon Riders return throughout the day based on route distance. Last riders typically finish late afternoon.
- Evening Festival winds down after last riders return and awards wrap up.
Specific headliner and full programming details announced closer to October 3 via the Bonham Area Chamber at 903-583-4811 or info@bonhamchamber.com.
The Routes
Road, Gravel, and a Family Ride
All routes start from the updated downtown Bonham square at the restored Fannin County Courthouse. The longer routes take riders through Fannin County, over Bois d’Arc Lake, and through the Caddo National Grasslands. Expect challenging elevation changes, some river crossings, and genuine rural backroad terrain on the longer distances.
The 13-mile family fun ride heads out toward Lake Bonham and is designed for riders of all ages including beginners. No technical demands — a good first organized ride for younger cyclists.
| Road — Century | 100 miles · Full county traverse · Bois d’Arc Lake · Caddo Grasslands · Challenging elevation |
|---|---|
| Road — Long | 65 miles · Extended Fannin County loop with rural backroads |
| Road — Medium | 40 miles · Mid-distance paved route |
| Road — Short | 24 miles · Accessible paved loop from downtown |
| Gravel — Long | 70 miles · Extended gravel traverse of Fannin County |
| Gravel — Medium | 45 miles · Mixed terrain gravel route |
| Gravel — Short | 24 miles · Introductory gravel route |
| Family Fun | 13 miles · Out to Lake Bonham · All ages · No technical demands |
Getting There & Logistics
Parking, Start Line & Festival Location
The ride starts and the festival is centered at the Fannin County Courthouse square in Historic Downtown Bonham — 101 E. Sam Rayburn Dr. / 327 N. Main St. Street parking and city lots are available nearby. On event day the square area sees high foot and bike traffic; arriving by 7:30 AM is advisable for riders. Guests staying at Four Winds (317 W Sam Rayburn Dr) can walk to the start line.
Bonham is approximately 90 minutes northeast of Dallas via US-75 N to US-82 E.
Walk to the Start Line — No Car Needed on Race Day
Four Winds Victorian Venue and Suites is at 317 W Sam Rayburn Dr — within walking distance of the Autumn in Bonham festival area and ride start. Park once the night before. Walk your bike to the start. Walk back after. Five private guest spaces, no cleaning fee, self check-in. Book Direct through Four Winds for live availability and direct support.
Book DirectFAQ
Autumn in Bonham 2026 — Common Questions
No. The fall festival — vendors, live music, car show, family activities — is free and open to anyone. You don't need to register or ride to enjoy the day in downtown Bonham. The festival runs alongside the rally throughout the day.
Ready to compare live dates before you keep planning?
Registration is through BikeReg at autumninbonham.com. Early registration at reduced pricing opens April 1, 2026. Day-of registration is available at the start area beginning at 6:00 AM. Contact the Bonham Area Chamber at 903-583-4811 or info@bonhamchamber.com for vendor and sponsorship information.
The 13-mile family fun route rides from downtown Bonham out to Lake Bonham Recreation Area. It's designed for all ages and cycling abilities — no technical demands, no major elevation challenges. A good first organized ride for kids and beginners.
Yes — street parking and city lots near the downtown square. Guests at Four Winds (317 W Sam Rayburn Dr) can walk their bikes to the start and have off-street parking included at the property. Arrive the night before to avoid event-day parking pressure.
SAG stop details for 2026 will be published closer to the event via the Bonham Area Chamber and the official event site at autumninbonham.com. Historically the event has offered support on the longer routes. Contact the Chamber at 903-583-4811 for the most current information.
