Sprit Bear Gran Fondo Lap route

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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 approximately 3800 ft of elevation gain. 2 laps…….well, it hurts to say it, but that’s nearly 52 miles and 7600 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.

State Championship: This year, the race will be the designated USA Cycling Gran Fondo State Championships for Montana. Medals will be awarded for first thru third place winners in each category.


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.