Spirit Bear Mountain Bike Gran Fondo

This year, the Spirit Bear mountain bike race will be a little different. Instead of a traditional XC race, we wanted to spice things up and take advantage of the incredible single track of the Foys to Blacktail Trail. This course is going to test every rider’s legs as well as their trail riding abilities. We are going to offer two options for racers: 1 lap, or a grueling, down right brag-worthy 2 laps. 1 lap will provide racers 24.5 miles and 4200 ft of elevation gain. 2 laps…….well, it hurts to say it, but that’s nearly 52 miles and 8500 ft elevation. The best part is all racers start together, so everyone will get the chance to bump elbows, or share some smiles, for the first lap. The goal of this race is to give spandex clad racers and baggy short trail riders alike a fun event that will provide a challenge for all who take it on. 

The Race

The race starts at Herron Park. From there, we all roll out together in a neutral start for 2.25 miles along the paved Foys Canyon Road. The race then officially starts at the bottom of the  sparsely populated  Patrick Creek Road, where you will climb for 9.5 miles. This isn’t your average gravel road climb though, as it provides great scenery as it traverses its way to Emmons Saddle. From there, saddle up and get ready for some epic single track, where you will ascend and descend your way  back to  Herron Park where racers do the classic Herron XC loop: Chase Trail down to Boundary Trail, along Overlook Trail and then finally down the Notch Trail into the lower Herron meadow. Here, 1 lappers can kick back while those brave souls doing two laps can refuel, question their life choices, and start on their journey to glory. 

Covid Policy:

We are hosting the race, but are going to keep it pretty chill this year. We will recommend masks in the commons area and are going to limit community food/drink areas to be on the cautious side. We will have water and snacks but really recommend racers have back up bottles and food set aside to grab as needed. We may be grilling and have other goodies, but we will make these decisions closer to race day for everyone’s wellness. 

NOTE:  SAME DAY REGISTRATION IS $10 MORE...PLEASE REGISTER ONLINE!