A truly famous or infamous (depending on the person) race, the Grizzly 100 & Big Bear MTB Gran Fondo 2026 is a Saturday spectacular of multiple mountain bike race lengths held in the gorgeous area of Big Bear Lake, California. Once two separate mountain bike events, the Grizzly 100 and the MTB Grand Fondo, are now joined into one day of non-stop pedalling. Strambecco could not recommend this event more, and it consistently makes our list of Best Mountain Bike Events in the Southwest. Of special note, the Grizzly 100 race is part of the National Ultra Endurance (NUE) Series.

Drawing elite mountain bikers from every corner of the globe, it offers an unmatched experience. Its intricate blend of challenging single-track, double-track, and fire road climbs and descents attracts mountain biking enthusiasts. The towering altitudes, ranging between 7,000 to 8,500 feet, add to the adrenaline rush.

The Grizzly 100 & Big Bear MTB Gran Fondo offers a multitude of routes to cater to every type of rider, from the rookie to the seasoned expert. For the daring riders opting for the 75k and 100k courses, they will first tackle the 2N08 climb and then embark on 2 (for 75k) or 3 (for 100k) laps of the 50k upper loop, covering Helipad, Lodge Pole, and Cabin 89/Pine Knot. The MTB Gran Fondo segments – 30k & 50k Skyview – are ideal for those looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of Big Bear with sports climbs.

The Grizzly has gained international recognition as a spectacular and physically demanding endurance mountain bike race that spans some of California’s best single track and double track, climbing thousands of meters while all taking place at a hypoxic altitude of up to 8,500 feet!

Participants will find solace and rejuvenation at the various aid stations spread across the course. These stations will be stocked with Hammer Nutrition, Bob’s Pickle Pops, water, and other specialty items catering to the needs and cravings of the riders (think banana & Nutella sandwich with M&Ms, pickle spears, PB-filled celery sticks, Grandma Betty’s Homemade Cookies, bacon, watermelon)

The Grizzly 100 and 75 is the final race of the National Ultra Endurance Race Series (NUE) this year, making it a physically challenging venue to end on and sure to bring some heavy-hitting riders. There are eight categories in the Grizzly 100/75 that all attribute points to the NUE series. The Grizzly course is no joke, and the dreaded Radford Climb has been voted as “one of the most dreaded 5-mile climbs in California.”