What is the Hill Country Ride for AIDS?
The Hill Country Ride for AIDS (HCRA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and Central Texas's largest annual fundraiser for HIV/AIDS services. Every dollar raised goes directly to nine local nonprofits supporting people living with HIV/AIDS in our community. In 28 years, we've raised over $13 million.
This is a ride, not a race. Choose from 12, 27, 45, or 75 miles through the Texas Hill Country — all routes are fully supported, and all levels are welcome.
Who benefits from the funds raised?
100% of fundraising goes to our nine beneficiary organizations:
allgo · AshWell · C.A.R.E. Program · Community Action, Inc. · Friends of the David Powell Clinic · Out Youth · Project Transitions · Vivent Health · Texas Health Action (Kind Clinic)
What has the Ride accomplished?
With your help, our beneficiaries have provided:
Who runs the HCRA?
The HCRA is led by Ride Director Eli Oldham and Allison Price, supported by an active board of directors and an incredible volunteer production team.
How many people participate?
About 500 riders and 200+ volunteers join us each year.
When is the 2027 Ride?
Saturday, April 17, 2027.
Where does the Ride take place?
The Ride starts and finishes at Krause Springs, just west of Austin near Spicewood, TX.
What's the weekend schedule?
Thursday, April 15 — Opening Ceremony
[Venue TBD] | 4:00–7:00 PM
Packet pickup and first-year rider orientation
Friday, April 16 — Backup Packet Pickup
Saturday, April 17 — Ride Day
6:00 AM — Parking opens / Onsite packet pickup / Breakfast served
8:00 AM — 75-mile riders depart
8:30 AM — 45-mile riders depart
9:30 AM — 27-mile riders depart
10:00 AM — 12-mile riders depart
12:00 PM — First riders finish / Lunch begins
3:30 PM — Final riders cross the finish line
3:45 PM — Closing Ceremonies & Awards
When is the Kick Off Party?
Our annual Kick Off Party marks the official start of Ride season and typically takes place the last week of January. The 2027 Kick Off date is TBD — stay tuned!
What is the Cocoa Social?
The Cocoa Social is our first JoyRide of the season — a casual, supported ride followed by hot cocoa with the HCRA family. We bring the marshmallows.
Where can I follow HCRA online?
Facebook: facebook.com/hillcountryrideforaids
Instagram: [Add handle]
YouTube: youtube.com/user/TxHillCountryRide
Website: hillcountryride.org
How do I register?
Click the Register button at the top of any page on this site.
How much does it cost?
First-Time or Second-Time Adult Rider — $60 registration + $250 minimum fundraising
Adult Rider — $60 registration + $500 minimum fundraising
Student Rider — $20 registration + $250 minimum fundraising (register with a .edu email)
Kids Who Ride (ages 8–17) — $20 registration + $100 minimum fundraising
Volunteer — $20 registration, no fundraising requirement
Just a Fundraising Page — No registration fee, no minimum, no pressure
Why is there a registration fee on top of fundraising?
Your registration fee covers the cost of putting on the event — meals at Krause Springs (breakfast tacos + HEB BBQ lunch), snacks at every pit stop, camping, trucks, tents, equipment, insurance, and law enforcement. This way, every fundraising dollar goes directly to our nine beneficiaries, not to event costs.
What if I don't hit my fundraising minimum?
In 27 years, we've never had a single rider charged for a shortfall. When people hear what you're doing, they want to support you. Most riders end up raising well above their minimum — the average is close to $1,000. We're here to help. [Link: Fundraising Tips →]
What ages can participate?
Anyone 8 and older can ride. Children under 18 must ride with a registered adult. Kids of all ages are welcome at Krause Springs for the finish line celebration.
What distances are offered?
12, 27, 45, or 75 miles. Every route is fully supported with pit stops, SAG vehicles, route signage, and volunteers. This is a ride, not a race — go at your own pace.
What support is available on Ride Day?
Every route has pit stops every 6–15 miles stocked with water, Nuun, snacks, and restrooms. SAG (Support and Gear) vehicles patrol the full route and can pick you up, bring supplies, or advance you to the next stop if needed. Our sign crew marks every turn. You will not get lost and you will not be left behind.
I'm not a serious cyclist. Can I still do this?
Yes — most of our riders aren't serious cyclists. Many have never done anything like this before. We offer free weekly JoyRides throughout the season at all ability levels, and no one gets left behind. [Link: JoyRide Schedule →]
What kind of bike should I ride?
Ride what's comfortable. Road bikes, mountain bikes, and hybrids all work. Trek Bikes is our official bike sponsor and a great resource if you need help choosing or renting. You can also ask the HCRA community on Facebook.
Can I dress up or decorate my bike?
Please do. Costumes, themed team kits, decorated bikes — all of it is encouraged. If it's safe and legal, we love it.
Are pets allowed at Krause Springs?
No pets allowed at Krause Springs, no exceptions.
Do I need to attend orientation?
Orientation is not required, but first-time riders are strongly encouraged to attend. It's under an hour, covers everything you need to know, and is a great way to meet other new riders. Schedule coming soon.
What should I bring on Ride Day?
Helmet, water bottle, and any riding gear that will help you to succeed on the road.
What is a team?
Any two or more riders! Teams can be friends, family, coworkers, congregations, clubs — anyone who wants to ride together.
Do I have to be on a team?
No. Riding individually is completely fine. But teams are a great way to recruit people into the Ride and raise more money together.
Does everyone on a team still have to meet the fundraising minimum?
Yes. The individual minimums apply whether you ride solo or on a team. The good news: team energy makes fundraising easier, and many companies offer matching gift programs that can double your team's total.
Does my company need to do anything special to form a corporate team?
Nothing is required — just register and ride. If your company has a charitable matching policy, ask HR about it. A simple form can double your team's impact.
Do team members have to stay together on Ride Day?
Not at all. Ride at your own pace. Teams celebrate together at the finish line, not in a pack on the road.
VOLUNTEERING
How do I volunteer?
Click the Volunteer link in the navigation at the top of this page to sign up.
What volunteer roles are available?
Volunteer opportunities include Opening Ceremonies, Ride Day pit stops, SAG driving, medical support, main camp logistics, and more. There are also year-round and pre-Ride week volunteer needs.