I'm literally sitting on my boat as I reply to this. :) Mtn bike trails are just down the road with plenty of gravel options. Don't cry for me, I'm doing just fine. I also grew tired of being called a shouty white male. :(
Oh, you're THAT guy.
If you don't like the price, spend gas money driving to another shop. Maybe take your chances buying on the internet, or wait for a sale. Or join a club that receives discounts in exchange for their promotion of the sport and being regular customers.