mtb

Jerdon Mountain Challenge

North Carolina, USA · 25 July 2026

Difficulty: 4/5 — Very hard

This 28.5-mile mountain bike race in Old Fort, NC features 3,500 feet of climbing and traverses classic Pisgah National Forest trails. It's a challenging backcountry MTB experience with amenities of a longer endurance race.

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Distances
28.5 mi
Elevation
1,069 m
Surface
singletrack, dirt, gravel
Typical W/kg
3–3.5

Rider fit

Who it's for

Experienced mountain bikers looking for a challenging, classic Pisgah National Forest race experience.

Who will struggle

Riders unfamiliar with technical singletrack, significant climbing, or backcountry conditions will find this race demanding.

Training focus

Focus on climbing endurance, technical descending skills, and sustained power output on varied terrain.

Are you ready for this race?

Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.

FAQs

What is the course length and elevation gain?+

The course is 28.5 miles with approximately 3,508 feet of climbing.

What kind of terrain can I expect?+

You'll race on classic Pisgah National Forest trails including Bernard Mountain, Star Gap, Gateway, Forager, and Camp Rock Trails, which are a mix of singletrack, gravel, and dirt.

Are there any cut-off times?+

Yes, Aid Station #1 at Mile 10 has a cutoff time of 10:30 AM, and Aid Station #2 at Mile 20 has a cutoff time of 1:00 PM.

What amenities are included with registration?+

Registration includes an event shirt (if registered by July 12, 2026), chip timing, a post-race meal, and a post-race drink.

What are the registration deadlines?+

Early pricing ends July 12, 2026, and general registration closes July 23, 2026, at 11:00 PM.

What is the participant limit?+

The race is limited by the US Forest Service to 300 participants.

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